NAPLES, Italy — The change of command season has officially begun with the Senate confirmation last week of three admirals for their new positions, including moves that affect the top two Navy commands in Europe.

Adm. Michael Mullen was confirmed in a late-night vote April 28 for his move to become chief of naval operations in Washington from his current position as Naval Forces Europe commander.

Mullen will replace the retiring Adm. Vern Clark, who has served as the Navy’s 27th CNO since July 21, 2000.

Mullen’s replacement will be Adm. Harry Ulrich III, the current 6th Fleet commander, who will be promoted to four-star admiral with the move.

Ulrich will also command NATO’s Allied Joint Force Command in Naples.

The NAVEUR change of command will be May 23 at JFC headquarters.

Taking over for Ulrich will be Vice Adm. John Stufflebeem, who will be promoted to the three-star rank on his move from Washington, where he serves as the assistant deputy chief of naval operations for information, plans and strategy, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations at the Pentagon.

In addition to taking over 6th Fleet, Stufflebeem will assume control of NATO’s Joint Command in Lisbon, Portugal, and Strike Force NATO.

Stufflebeem will take over the 6th Fleet during a ceremony at Naval Support Activity Naples on May 20.