The change of command took place Aug. 17 at Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka. During Reifsteck’s tenure, the group increased situational awareness of the undersea domain and strengthened allied and partner capabilities supporting Joint Force operations.
“I have such deep respect for the staff, their dedication and what we accomplished,” Reifsteck said. “Our team delivered results all over the world, including theater and national level tasks in 7th Fleet, and combat operations in 5th and 7th Fleet.”
Under Reifsteck, Submarine Group 7 integrated anti-submarine assets in 48 high-interest theater undersea warfare operations. The command also maintained 18 fast-attack submarines and two submarine tenders, deployed 10 submarines and supported 37 port visits.
The group coordinated voyage repair periods and continuous maintenance availabilities to support submarine missions across both fleet regions. Reifsteck and his staff also conducted operations and engagements with six partner nations aimed at improving interoperability and cooperation in the undersea domain.
“While I am so proud of our team of professionals, I am also grateful and humbled to have been able to contribute to this region with our allies and partners,” Reifsteck said. “Most notably we have built deep bonds of trust, interoperability, and eagerness to partner and to meet each country’s needs.”
Rear Adm. Katie Sheldon, vice commander of U.S. 7th Fleet, presided over the ceremony, while Vice Adm. Naoya Hoshi, commander of the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force’s Fleet Submarine Force, presented Reifsteck with a 1st Grade Defense Cooperation Medal. The award, presented on behalf of JMSDF Chief of Staff Adm. Akira Saito, recognized Reifsteck’s contribution to cooperation between U.S. and Japanese submarine forces.
Montalvo becomes the 52nd commander of Submarine Group 7 after serving as Director of Maritime Headquarters and Sustainment at Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet. He thanked Reifsteck for his leadership and closed his remarks by saying, “Let’s buckle up and let’s get to it.”
Reifsteck will continue his Navy service in Washington, D.C., as Director, Strategic Integration. His tenure also included development of future war plans and training the Joint Force on how to employ undersea forces in combat.
