JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Capt. Michael Windom has taken over as the 46th commanding officer of Fleet Readiness Center Southeast (FRCSE), succeeding Capt. William Palmer in a ceremony held at Naval Air Station Jacksonville on April 11.

Capt. Palmer, a Birmingham, Alabama native, previously served as the executive officer before stepping up to command in April 2023. Reflecting on his tenure, Palmer highlighted the center's achievements, saying, "From the completion of our new avionics building to exceeding the NAE’s F414 engine readiness goal and establishing new product lines like the F-35 Lightning II, the F135 Power Module, and the T-45 Goshawk service life extension program, together, we've achieved remarkable progress in operational readiness."

He praised the workforce, stating, "The skill and commitment of FRC Southeast's workforce places this organization among the most esteemed in naval aviation, and I take great pride in the collaborative efforts that have led to these accomplishments."

Palmer expressed confidence in his successor, Capt. Windom, saying, "I am confident that Capt. Windom’s leadership and commitment to excellence will propel FRCSE forward, ensuring continued success in support of our nation."

Rear Adm. Joseph Hornbuckle, Commander of Fleet Readiness Centers, presided over the ceremony. He emphasized the importance of FRCSE's work, stating, "The maintenance work performed at FRC Southeast returns aircraft and their components back to warfighting as soon as possible at the best cost possible."

Hornbuckle commended Palmer's leadership, noting, "Capt. Palmer’s leadership here benefitted Naval Aviation and our nation by reducing turnaround times, opening new, critical facilities and saving considerable resources in many areas of operations, all with a focus on the importance of people."