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RDML Wilson_ CAPT Larsen CAPT Stormer (002)

DSO West Holds Change of Command

August 10th, 2023

Defense Service Office (DSO) West held a change of command ceremony at Murphy Canyon Chapel in San Diego, California, on August 3, 2023. DSO West command members, family, and friends were invited to witness the ceremony.

Rear Adm. David G. Wilson, Commander, Naval Legal Service Command, presided over the ceremony in which Capt. Hayes C. Larsen relieved Capt. Ryan J. Stormer as Commanding Officer of DSO West.

Wilson congratulated Stormer for his achievements as Commanding Officer of DSO West.

“Capt. Stormer, as a commanding officer, the Chief of Naval Operations challenged you to be relentless in building a culture of the highest character – a tough, resilient team that wins. You did just that. Your team displayed high levels of camaraderie, connectedness, and resiliency. This is the embodiment of warrior toughness. Your efforts, zealous advocacy, and collective teamwork made a difference to the navy’s readiness and most especially to your clients.” said, Wilson.

During the ceremony, Stormer thanked his Sailors for a rewarding tour and acknowledged the support his family has provided throughout the years.

"It has been an incredible journey and I am deeply grateful for the privilege of serving as the DSO West Commanding Officer – I will always be indebted to all the men and women of DSO West,” said Stormer.

Stormer will report to the Office of the Special Trial Counsel (OSTC) West in San Diego, California. Larsen just completed his tour as the Circuit Judge for the Navy-Marine Corps in Norfolk, Virginia. Before that position, he was the Senior Defense Counsel, Defense Service Office, Pacific in Yokosuka, Japan.

Addressing DSO West as commanding officer for the first time, Larsen said: “I am honored to continue the legacy of excellence Stormer instilled in this command. Together, we will continue to stand and rise to the challenges ahead and stand proudly by those shipmates we are called upon to represent,” said Larsen.

Larsen is originally from Lexington, Virginia. He attended Southern Virginia College where he received his Bachelor of Arts degree. He received his law degree from Wake Forest University.

DSO West provides legal representation to military service members at Administrative Separation Boards, Boards of Inquiry, and Courts-Martial, in addition to providing advice to service members on defense-related topics such as non-judicial punishment.