Navy Relieves Commander of Sub USS West Virginia

Cmdr. Joseph Sammur was relieved as the commanding officer of USS West Virginia (SSBN-736) (Blue Crew) last week due to a loss of confidence, the Navy announced Saturday Sammur’s relief follows an investigation into a maintenance issue, a Submarine Forces Public Affairs spokesperson told USNI News on Monday. West Virginia is currently in port for maintenance, according to the Navy’s Saturday news release. Cmdr. Luke Kelvington, Submarine Squadron 20 deputy for training, has temporarily assumed command of West Virginia’s Blue Crew. Sammur, who assumed command nearly a year ago on Aug. 14, 2025, has been temporarily reassigned to Submarine Group...