Col. Christopher McDonald II Takes Command of Fleet Readiness Center East
Col. Christopher McDonald II assumed command of Fleet Readiness Center East (FRCE) in Cherry Point, N.C., during a change-of-command ceremony, replacing Navy Capt. Randy Berti.
Greenville New Bern Washington, NC, September 25, 2026 —
Col. Christopher McDonald II has assumed command of Fleet Readiness Center East (FRCE), located in Cherry Point, North Carolina. The formal transfer of authority took place during a change-of-command ceremony.
Colonel McDonald II succeeds Navy Capt. Randy Berti, who previously led the command. The specific details regarding Captain Berti’s next assignment or the exact date of the ceremony were not provided in the available information.
Fleet Readiness Center East is a component of the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) and plays a critical role in depot-level maintenance, repair, and overhaul of naval aircraft and their associated components. Its operations are vital to ensuring the readiness of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps aviation assets.
Further details about Colonel McDonald II’s background, previous assignments, or any specific objectives for his tenure at FRCE were not immediately available. Similarly, information concerning the outgoing commander, Captain Berti, such as his years of service at FRCE or his future role, was not disclosed.
The change of command is a time-honored military tradition that signifies the transfer of responsibility and authority from one commanding officer to another. It is intended to afford subordinates the opportunity to witness the formality of the change and to express confidence in the incoming commander.
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