Commanding Officer of USS Harry S. Truman Removed Following Collision Near Suez Canal

Commanding Officer of USS Harry S. Truman Removed Following Collision Near Suez Canal

The commanding officer of the U.S. Navy aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman was relieved of his duty on Thursday, more than a week after the carrier collided with a merchant ship at the junction of the Mediterranean Sea and the Suez Canal.

According to an official press release, Capt. Dave Snowden experienced a loss of confidence regarding his ability to command. He has now been assigned to Naval Air Forces Atlantic, a move characterized by a senior U.S. Navy official as essentially a termination of his naval career.

In the words of the senior Navy official, “Something didn’t happen that should have happened. A ship that hasn’t taken measures to avoid a collision, it’s on the captain. The buck stops with him.” This statement underscores the seriousness of the situation and the expectations placed on commanding officers.

Snowden’s removal comes after the Truman was involved in a significant incident with the merchant vessel Besiktas-M on February 12, as preparations were underway for the carrier to enter the Suez Canal from the Mediterranean.

Collision Incident Details

On the night of the incident, the carrier was making its way near Port Said while en route from the Mediterranean back to the Red Sea. As the carrier approached the entrance of the Suez Canal, conditions became crowded, with the collision occurring just before midnight.

The circumstances of the collision are currently under investigation. While the investigation is ongoing, the senior official stated that the relief of the commanding officer was warranted based on preliminary findings.

Standards and Accountability in the Navy

A press release emphasized the U.S. Navy’s commitment to maintaining high standards for commanding officers. It stated, “The U.S. Navy holds commanding officers to the highest standard and takes action to hold them accountable when those standards are not met. Naval leaders are entrusted with significant responsibilities to their Sailors and their ships.” This accountability underscores the Navy’s mission to ensure safety and operational integrity.

Snowden was officially relieved by Rear Adm. Sean Bailey, commander of Carrier Strike Group 8. He had served as the commanding officer of the USS Harry S. Truman since December 2023. Capt. Christopher Hill, the commanding officer of the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, will temporarily take over the responsibilities as the interim commanding officer of the Truman.

Assessment of Damage

The Navy’s Sixth Fleet released images on Saturday that revealed significant damage to the starboard side of the USS Harry S. Truman, particularly near its stern. A pipe along the side of the ship also showed signs of severe damage, although all affected areas remain above the water line.

Currently, the USS Harry S. Truman is undergoing repairs at Souda Bay in Greece. According to the senior official, it is anticipated that the carrier will be ready to return to the Red Sea within a few days, following the completion of necessary repairs.

Implications for the Navy

The incident not only raises concerns about the specific actions taken by the crew during the approach to the Suez Canal but also reflects on the broader implications for the Navy in terms of operational procedures and training. Ensuring that all personnel are adequately trained to navigate in crowded waterways is essential to preventing future incidents.

As the investigation continues, the findings will likely prompt discussions within the Navy about possible improvements in training protocols. Ensuring that all commanding officers are prepared to make critical decisions in high-pressure situations is vital for operational success and safety.

The USS Harry S. Truman is a vital asset to the U.S. Navy and has played a significant role in various operations. Its swift repair and return to service will be closely monitored by naval leadership.

In closing, the recent developments surrounding the USS Harry S. Truman serve as a reminder of the challenges faced by military leaders and the importance of accountability in maintaining safety standards at sea. The Navy continues its mission with the utmost regard for the responsibilities entrusted to its commanding officers.

Fox News Digital’s Greg Norman contributed to this report.