Naval Information Warfare Center Atlantic HQ under new command in Charleston

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – The Naval Information Warfare Center (NIWC) Atlantic, headquartered in Charleston, is under new command following a ceremony held last week.

Capt. Matthew O’Neal became the new commanding officer following the exit of Capt. Nicole Nigro who will become the program manager for Tactical Networks, Program Manager, Warfare in San Diego.

According to NIWC officials, Capt. O’Neal will command about 5,000 employees at the Charleston HQ and other offices, including in Virginia, Louisiana, Florida, Naval District Washington, Europe, the Middle East, and Antarctica.

“I am honored and humbled to have been selected to lead this outstanding team and to serve alongside such a dedicated and talented workforce to further our mission of delivering information warfare capabilities to naval, joint, and national warfighters,” O’Neal said. “NIWC Atlantic is right in the thick of developing and honing the Navy and Marine Corps posture in this key domain. I consider it a distinct privilege to join in such an impactful role, helping ensure my fellow Sailors and our Marines brethren have the tools they need.”

Before becoming head commander, O’Neal was the director for Naval Enterprise Networks in Program Executive Office Digital and Enterprise Services.

During the change of command ceremony on June 18, Capt. Nigro  received the Legion of Merit award for “outstanding performance and dedicated leadership,” highlighting how NIWC Atlantic, under her leadership, was able to reorganize military leadership more effectively.

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