A US Navy warship commander has been relieved of his duties following the circulation of an image showing him handling a rifle with the scope mounted backward, according to official sources.
The incident, which involved Captain Michael Davies, the commanding officer of the USS Princeton, came to light after a photograph surfaced online depicting him holding a rifle in an apparent training exercise. The image quickly attracted attention due to the incorrect positioning of the scope, a mistake that sparked concerns over weapons handling protocols and judgment within the military ranks.
Following an internal review by the Navy, Captain Davies was removed from his post. A statement from the Navy confirmed that the decision to relieve Davies was based on a “loss of confidence in his ability to command.” The exact circumstances surrounding the photograph remain under investigation, but the Navy emphasized that maintaining proper weapons safety standards is of utmost importance.
The USS Princeton, a guided-missile cruiser, will now see its leadership transition as a new commanding officer takes over in the wake of Davies’ departure. This incident marks a significant moment for the ship’s crew and the Navy as a whole, highlighting the importance of discipline and adherence to protocol in all aspects of military operations.
Further details on the incident and any subsequent actions have yet to be released. However, the Navy’s swift response underlines its commitment to ensuring that all personnel meet the highest standards of conduct and capability.