By Gerardo R. Partido
Variety News Staff

REAR Admiral Charles J. Leidig, the outgoing commander of the Navy on Guam, has been awarded the Ancient Order of the Chamorri, the government of Guam’s highest honor.
The award was given by Gov. Felix P. Camacho during a change-of-command ceremony held yesterday at Naval Station during which the governor also welcomed Rear Admiral William French who is taking over command of COMNAVMAR.
The Ancient Order of the Chamorri is the highest honor given by the governor of Guam to non-Chamorros for extraordinary contributions to the island community.
“Admiral Leidig did so much for our community and has been a staunch advocate for Guam, especially in the advent of the military buildup here. He worked with us to improve our community and set a strong precedent that the military here on Guam and the civilian community are integrated,” the governor said in a statement.
Leidig assumed command of the U.S. Naval Forces Marianas and Navy Region Marianas in June 2005. He has been actively involved in many local initiatives, including the Governor’s Civilian/Military Task Force.
Leidig has been assigned as director of the U.S. Naval Forces Europe Sixth Fleet in Naples, Italy.
Admiral French will also assume command of the Navy Region Marianas and will be the U.S. Pacific Command Representative for Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, and the Republic of Palau.
French is reporting to Guam after recently serving as commander of the Navy Region Northwest at Bangor, Wash.
“We look forward to working with Admiral French to strengthen the partnership we have with the Navy on Guam. These next few years are critical in Guam’s relationship with the U.S. military and I am confident Admiral French and I will continue our productive dialogue for the benefit of our people,” the governor said.