Update on the Collision in the Gulf

The Captain of the USS Newport News has been removed from duty after the sub collided with a Japanese tanker in the Gulf. The following is a press release from the 5th Fleet Public Affairs Office:

BAHRAIN - Rear Adm. Douglas J. McAneny, Commander, Combined Task Force 54, completed administrative personnel actions involving select members of the USS Newport News (SSN 750) crew, Monday, Jan. 29, to include relieving Cmdr. Matthew A. Weingart of command due to a lack of confidence in his ability to command. Capt. Norman B. Moore has temporarily assumed command of the Los Angeles-class fast attack submarine.

Following a collision between Newport News and M/V Mogamigawa, Jan. 8, the submarine transited to Bahrain where it is currently undergoing a damage inspection and assessment, to be followed by temporary repairs. The submarine will return to the United States once temporary repairs are complete; at which time permanent repairs will be conducted. Legal and Safety Mishap investigations are in progress.

As a general rule Captains of submarines and any ships in the Navy are held responsible for any "mishaps" that might occur. I thought that it was interesting that the Admiral had a "lack of confidence in his ability to command." It makes me wonder if during the invesitgation if other things came to light about his Leadership abilities. I am not saying that the CO is incompetent, it was just an interesting choice of words.