In a decisive move that underscores the high standards expected of naval leadership, the US Navy announced earlier this week that it had relieved Captain Lenard C. Mitchell of his command following the grounding of the USS Hershel “Woody” Williams (ESB-4) near the coast of Libreville, Gabon.
This decision came after an initial review of the May incident revealed enough concerns to warrant such a measure.
Incident Details and Leadership Accountability
The Hershel “Woody” Williams, a Lewis B. Puller-class expeditionary mobile base, experienced what the Navy described as a “soft grounding” on May 9, 2024.
The ship, named after the legendary Marine and Medal of Honor recipient who famously wielded a flamethrower against Japanese fortifications on Iwo Jima, was stuck for approximately four hours before refloating on the high tide.
An AIS replay from @MarineTraffic of the grounding of USS Hershel Woody Williams of @MSCSealift off Gabon.
At 1030UTC on May 9, the tugs Lekoni and Ivindo docked the tanker Isla de Bioki just to the stern of Williams; close aboard. The two tugs are small for a ship the size of… pic.twitter.com/bkKR54GhIo
— Sal Mercogliano (WGOW Shipping) 🚢⚓🐪🚒🏴☠️ (@mercoglianos) May 11, 2024
Fortunately, no injuries or serious damage were reported during the incident.
Capt. Mitchell, who had been at the helm of the ship’s Gold Crew since November 2022, was reassigned to Commander, Naval Surface Forces Atlantic, pending the results of a full investigation.
The Navy has not disclosed specific details leading to the grounding, as the investigation remains open.
However, the action taken reflects the Navy’s stringent policy of accountability, where commanding officers bear ultimate responsibility for their ships and crew.
“The US 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,” the Navy wrote in its press release statement.
A Rare Admission
Vice Adm. Thomas E. Ishee, commander of the US 6th Fleet, decided to relieve Mitchell, marking a rare instance in which the Navy has explicitly linked such a decision to an ongoing investigation.
The military typically uses the term “loss of confidence” as a broad explanation for relieving officers, covering a range of potential issues, both professional and personal.
This incident is part of a broader pattern of the Navy taking swift action against commanders following mishaps.
In 2024 alone, the Navy has already relieved at least 13 commanding officers, a pace that could exceed last year’s total of 16.
Capt. Michael Concannon has been appointed as the interim commanding officer of the Hershel “Woody” Williams, which continues its mission with US Naval Forces Africa without disruption.
Conclusion: Upholding Navy Values
The incident and the Navy’s transparent response highlight the enduring emphasis on leadership accountability within the fleet.
This principle ensures that officers at all levels uphold the highest standards of conduct and operational readiness, which is critical for maintaining the US Navy’s effectiveness and reputation on the global stage.
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