preliminary-findings-suggest-navy-at-fault-in-fitzgerald-collision-report-says

What I find troubling about these incidences is if it turns out that it is officer/NCO incompetence and lack of enforcing standards led to the deaths of 17 sailors. I'm assuming that the navy works like the army and there are certain levels of competency that are expected based on position and rank. As a military leader you are entrusted with the supervision, training and welfare of the people under your charge. I can't make any assumptions about fault as I have no information or experience in the field. I do however expect anyone found negligent in performance of their duties that leads to injury or death of their personnel to be punished.

I have no knowledge other than what is reported. Having said that, I know that Navy is going to be found at fault because it is always up to US to avoid a collision - PERIOD. We train to run dark and with very little light in very dangerous waters. Our crews are taught to avoid civilian ships, yes we may have the right of way and sometimes demand it, but transiting waters requires common sense as well.

We will see what shakes out. I expect the worst after being on a staff that did a few investigations.

PO1 Tony Holland We Were Just Discussing That, Knew that Was Coming.