Former XO seems to be getting hosed. Is this military justice?

PO1 Ken Johnson — Mon, 23 Feb 2015 11:45:24 -0500

I hope to see more about how this one pans out. It seems "undue influence" doesn't even begin to describe this one. The RADM orders the CAPT to do NJP so that he can be the reviewing officer? Now, I'm not saying the CDR is guilty or not guilty, as I don't have all the facts; however, I'm saying the set up seems to be rigged against him.

It seems the PC Police have jumped all over this one.

Legal experts cast doubt on fired XO and CO's mast

Two fired destroyer leaders who were found guilty at mast for dereliction of duty have legal grounds to get their career-ending discipline removed, legal experts say.

Response by SGT Jim Z. made Feb 23 at 2015 12:13 PM

SGT Jim Z. — Mon, 23 Feb 2015 12:13:01 -0500

That sounds like they laid some railroad tracks and blew a locomotive right over them.

Response by CSM Michael Lynch made Feb 23 at 2015 12:16 PM

CSM Michael Lynch — Mon, 23 Feb 2015 12:16:12 -0500

looks like a torpedo was fired for a rear end sinking :-(

Response by PO1 John Miller made Apr 10 at 2015 1:08 AM

PO1 John Miller — Fri, 10 Apr 2015 01:08:17 -0400

PO1 Ken Johnson , I agree. Definitely undue influence going on here. I've been following this story in Navy Crimes, I mean Navy Times, and if what I read is true I hope the CDR can at least salvage his career and retire at his current rank. Unfortunately, wronged or not, I don't think he'll ever be CO of a ship because of this crap.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 10 at 2015 1:29 AM

CSM Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 10 Apr 2015 01:29:59 -0400

Chief - just going off what I read I can't say whether or not the command group is getting hosed or if the punishment was just. There is definitely some unlawful command influence going on. If the CDR did not agree with the investigating officer he should of had the IO investigate further, interview more witnesses, gather more facts, read the minimum/maximum punishments for article violations, etc.

I am not well versed in how the Navy operates but, where was Rear Admiral Lewis' Command Master Chief Petty Officer? I know that I always reviewed and discussed investigations with my commander prior to any recommendations being made. I mean that's part of my job, to keep my commander out of trouble.

I think the Navy legal folks are going to get the punishment removed.