August 22, 2017

The United States Navy relieves Vice Admiral Joseph Aucoin of his command of the Seventh Fleet following a series of collisions involving its ships, including the USS John S. McCain.

Yokosuka, Japan | United States Navy

Watercolor painting based depiction of The United States Navy relieves Vice Admiral Joseph Aucoin of his command of the Seventh Fleet following a series of collisions involving its ships, including the USS John S. McCain. (2017)

Relief of Vice Admiral Joseph Aucoin from Command of the Seventh Fleet

On August 22, 2017, the United States Navy made the significant decision to relieve Vice Admiral Joseph Aucoin of his command of the Seventh Fleet. This action followed a series of maritime incidents involving the fleet’s vessels, most notably the collision of the USS John S. McCain.

Background

The Seventh Fleet, based in Yokosuka, Japan, is a critical component of the U.S. Navy’s presence in the Asia-Pacific region. It plays a vital role in maintaining maritime security and stability in the area. Vice Admiral Joseph Aucoin had been in command since September 2015.

Series of Incidents

The decision to relieve Vice Admiral Aucoin came after a troubling pattern of accidents involving Seventh Fleet ships:

  1. USS Fitzgerald Collision (June 17, 2017): The USS Fitzgerald collided with a Philippine-flagged container ship off the coast of Japan, resulting in the deaths of seven U.S. sailors. The incident raised concerns about operational readiness and safety protocols.

  2. USS John S. McCain Collision (August 21, 2017): Just a day before Aucoin’s relief, the USS John S. McCain collided with a Liberian-flagged oil tanker near Singapore. This accident resulted in the deaths of ten sailors and further highlighted issues within the fleet.

Decision and Aftermath

The removal of Vice Admiral Aucoin was part of a broader effort by the Navy to address systemic issues within the fleet. The Navy cited a “loss of confidence” in his ability to command as the primary reason for his relief. Rear Admiral Phil Sawyer was named as his successor.

Broader Implications

  • Operational Review: The incidents prompted a comprehensive review of the Seventh Fleet’s operations, training, and maintenance practices. The Navy sought to identify and rectify any deficiencies that contributed to the accidents.

  • Strategic Impact: The collisions and subsequent leadership changes underscored the challenges faced by the U.S. Navy in maintaining readiness and operational effectiveness in a strategically vital region.

  • Policy Changes: The Navy implemented several policy changes aimed at improving navigation, communication, and crew training to prevent future incidents.

The relief of Vice Admiral Aucoin marked a pivotal moment for the U.S. Navy, emphasizing the importance of leadership accountability and the need for continuous improvement in operational standards.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Explore related moments in history

Events connected by shared themes, locations, or historical context.

The USS Fitzgerald and ACX Crystal Collision

2017 · off the coast of Japan, Japan

The collision between the USS Fitzgerald, a United States Navy destroyer, and the ACX Crystal, a Philippine-flagged container ship, occurred off the coast of Japan, resulting in the deaths of seven U.S. sailors and significant damage to the destroyer.

Return of The Great White Fleet

1909 · Hampton Roads, United States

The Great White Fleet, a United States Navy fleet sent by Theodore Roosevelt on a worldwide tour, returned to Hampton Roads, Virginia, after a journey of over a year symbolizing America's emerging blue-water navy capability.

The Hainan Island Incident: April 11, 2001

2001 · Hainan, China

The detained crew of a United States EP-3E Aries II surveillance aircraft, which had collided with a Chinese fighter jet and made an emergency landing on Hainan Island, China, was released after 11 days of diplomatic negotiations.

The Capture of the USS Pueblo: January 23, 1968

1968 · Near Wonsan, North Korea

The USS Pueblo, an American Navy intelligence vessel, was captured by North Korean forces. The event heightened tensions during the Cold War and led to the crew's year-long detention.