"Navy Relieves USS Howard Commander Twice in 6 Months for Grounding and Loss of Confidence"

The Navy has relieved the commanding officer of the Japan-based destroyer USS Howard, Cmdr. Cameron Dennis, less than six months after taking over the post, following the firing of his predecessor, Cmdr. Kenji Igawa, who was relieved due to a "soft grounding" incident. The Navy cited a "loss of confidence" in Dennis' ability to perform his duties and assigned Capt. Dave Huljack as commanding officer until a permanent replacement is identified. Dennis, who began his Navy career in 1993, will be reassigned to the U.S. 7th Fleet staff, and the Navy stated that there will be no impact to the ship's mission or schedule.