Transition of Command at Naval Base Coronado

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Naval Base Coronado aerial view showing operational readiness.

News Summary

Capt. Ladislao Montero officially handed over command of Naval Base Coronado to Capt. Loren Jacobi in a ceremonial event, highlighting key achievements in leadership and operational excellence. Under Montero, NBC saw significant operational advancements, including numerous air operations and the introduction of innovative systems, earning recognition in environmental conservation. Jacobi, with a distinguished Navy career, emphasized unity and collaboration in his address, underscoring personnel welfare and mission readiness. The ceremony marked a crucial leadership transition reflecting the ongoing dedication of NBC’s personnel to excellence and community engagement.

Coronado, California – On June 26, 2024, Capt. Ladislao “Monty” Montero officially relinquished command of Naval Base Coronado (NBC) to Capt. Loren “Wookie” Jacobi during a ceremonial event. The transition marked the end of Montero’s leadership, which was characterized by significant achievements and ongoing improvements at the military installation.

Rear Admiral Rich Jarrett, the commander of Navy Region Southwest, commended Montero for his exceptional leadership throughout his tenure at NBC. Under Montero’s command, Navy Base Coronado supported a myriad of operations across 150 tenant commands, which included 20 aviation squadrons and three home-ported aircraft carriers. His leadership was instrumental in a highly disruptive period of operational adjustments and advancements.

During Montero’s time at the helm, the base facilitated an impressive 196,400 air operations along with 95 carrier air wing movements and 325 ship movements. Additionally, he oversaw the logistical movement of more than 7,000 aircraft and managed the transport of 84,500 passengers and 116,800 tons of cargo, consolidating NBC’s role as a crucial hub in the Navy’s operational capabilities.

Emphasizing a commitment to innovation, Montero implemented the Navy’s first facial recognition system at an entry control point during his leadership. He prioritized environmental conservation, leading to NBC being awarded the 2024 Secretary of the Navy Environmental Award for its efforts in preserving natural resources.

Following this ceremony, Montero is set to join the Navy Southwest team as the new Chief of Staff, a role that reflects his valued expertise and leadership within the Navy community.

Capt. Loren Jacobi, who has more than two decades of service in the Navy, took over as the new commanding officer. Prior to assuming command at NBC, he served as the executive officer since 2024. Jacobi has an impressive background that includes the receipt of three Meritorious Service Medals and an individual action Air Medal, along with multiple other service honors, highlighting his distinguished career.

Montero acknowledged the importance of family and teamwork during his command, stating that these elements became the “heartbeat” of the organization. He referred to the community at NBC as “truly exceptional,” demonstrating a profound appreciation for the collaborative spirit that defines the base and its personnel.

In his address, Jacobi recognized the importance of fostering unity within the base amidst what he termed “historic division” in the country. He called for collaboration as fundamental to achieving successful outcomes, urging for voices of togetherness to resonate beyond the base and have a meaningful impact on the surrounding community.

The change of command ceremony not only marked a significant leadership transition but also highlighted the ongoing dedication of the personnel at Naval Base Coronado to operational excellence and community engagement. Both commanders expressed their commitment to sustaining a cooperative and supportive environment, signifying a continued focus on mission readiness and personnel welfare moving forward.