Retirement after 44 years of service

Personnel changes in the leadership of the German Navy

On Thursday, 21 September 2023 at 12:30 p.m., the Commander of Naval Forces and Head of Operations will change. Rear Admiral Jürgen zur Mühlen (63) will hand over command to Flotilla Admiral Stephan Haisch (54). The handover ceremony will take place on the pier in front of the frigate "Sachsen-Anhalt" at the Heppenser Groden naval base in Wilhelmshaven.

Rear Admiral zur Mühlen has been part of the German Navy since 1979 and is retiring after 44 years of service as a naval officer. "During my time in service, I have experienced two changes in security policy and the resulting dynamic upheavals. The constant in these times were the servicemen and women of the Navy, who adapted flexibly to the requirements and fulfilled their tasks worldwide with energy, determination and also the ability to suffer. They did this above all in the special times of the coronavirus pandemic, including the Navy's important contribution to society as a whole here in Germany. With the turn of events in 2022, our comrades have collectively demonstrated their personal ability to go into the cold start. It fills me with pride to have been part of Team Navy and to always remain mentally part of it," summarises the outgoing flag officer.

Flotilla Admiral Stephan Haisch. Photo: German Armed Forces

His successor, Flotilla Admiral Haisch, previously served as Deputy Commander DEU MARFOR.