Change of command for USS Bainbridge

NORFOLK, Va. - The captain of a Norfolk-based ship that played a key role in the dramatic rescue of an American ship captain held by pirates turned over the command of his guided missile destroyer Friday.

Cmdr. Frank Castellano was relieved as the Commanding Officer of the USS Bainbridge by Cmdr. Daniel Sunvold during a ceremony at Naval Station Norfolk.   Sunvold was previously the ship's Executive Officer.

Castellano was in command of the Bainbridge in April, 2009, when Capt. Richard Phillips and his U.S.-flagged ship, the Maersk Alabama, were captured by pirates off the coast of Africa.

During the operation, the Bainbridge assumed duties as the on-scene commander coordinating hostage negotiation efforts, control of naval assets, and ultimately embarking Special Operations Forces.

In the end, the Bainbridge's efforts resulted in the rescue of Phillips after Navy SEALS killed three of his captors.  One other pirate was captured.

Castellano is going to Joint Forces Command College before his next assignment.