Alumna assumes command of U.S. Naval Observatory (Bench '06)
CAPT Kristine N. Bench '06, USN, (pictured left in photo) assumed duties as the 60th Superintendent, United States Naval Observatory (USNO) on 17 July 2026, relieving CAPT Kimberly M. Freitas, USN. A time-honored tradition, the Change of Command ceremony was held on the observatory grounds in Washington, DC. Bench grew up in a Navy family and graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 2006.
Upon assuming command, CAPT Bench addressed the audience in attendance. “Standing before this remarkable team as your Commanding Officer is one of the greatest honors of my career. Together, we will honor the proud legacy of the United States Naval Observatory and continue delivering the precision, reliability and leadership upon which our Navy and nation depend.”
BZ '06!