U.S. Navy Relieves USS Mason Commander Chavius G. Lewis

Updated: 14-02-2026, 08.02 PM

U.S. Navy Relieves USS Mason Commander Chavius G. Lewis after officials announced on February 13, 2026, that he was removed from command due to a “loss of confidence” in his ability to lead. The decision applies to his role as commanding officer of the guided-missile destroyer USS Mason (DDG-87).

The decision was announced on February 13, 2026, by Rear Admiral Alexis T. Walker. Officials did not provide additional details regarding the circumstances behind the leadership change.

About USS Mason

The USS Mason is an United States Navy USS Mason (DDG-87), part of the Arleigh Burke-class destroyer fleet. Commissioned in 2003 and homeported in Mayport, Florida, the vessel plays a key role in air defense, anti-submarine warfare, and surface combat operations.

In 2023 and 2024, USS Mason was deployed to the Middle East, including operations in the Red Sea. During that period, the ship participated in defensive actions against drones and missiles launched by Houthi forces in Yemen, helping protect international shipping lanes amid regional tensions. The ship operated alongside other U.S. naval assets during those missions.

Captain Lewis assumed command in November 2024 following those deployments. He brought prior operational experience, including previous sea commands.

Leadership Change During Training

At the time of the relief, USS Mason was participating in a Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) in the northern Atlantic. COMPTUEX is an intensive pre-deployment certification exercise designed to evaluate a carrier strike group’s readiness across multiple warfare areas.

The Navy stated that the leadership transition will not affect the ship’s operational schedule or mission readiness. Captain Kevin Hoffman has assumed temporary command, and Captain Lewis has been reassigned to Naval Surface Group Southeast.

What “Loss of Confidence” Typically Means

The Navy frequently uses the phrase “loss of confidence” when relieving commanding officers. The wording can encompass a broad range of issues, including leadership judgment, performance during operations or training, or other administrative matters. No allegations of misconduct were publicly announced in this case.

In naval command culture, the commanding officer holds ultimate responsibility for a vessel’s readiness, safety, and crew performance. Accountability standards are high, particularly for warships operating in complex and high-risk environments.

Broader Context of U.S. Navy Relieves USS Mason Commander Chavius G. Lewis

The leadership change comes at a time of heightened maritime tensions in regions such as the Middle East and the Indo-Pacific. U.S. naval forces continue to play a central role in ensuring freedom of navigation and regional stability.

While details remain limited, the Navy’s decision reflects its longstanding emphasis on command accountability and operational standards. USS Mason will continue its training cycle as scheduled, preparing for future deployments.