USS Pittsburgh Commanding Officer Relieved of Duty

Navy News Service

Story Number: NNS120812-01
8/12/2012

From Commander, Submarine Group 2 Public Affairs

GROTON, Conn. (NNS) -- Cmdr. Michael P. Ward II, commanding officer of USS Pittsburgh (SSN 720), was relieved of his duties by Capt. Vernon Parks, commander, Submarine Development Squadron 12, on Aug. 10, due to lack of confidence in Ward's ability to command based upon allegations of personal misconduct on the part of Ward.

"Our Navy has a very clear and unambiguous standard regarding the character of our commanding officers, spelled out in the Charge of Command. I reviewed this Charge with Cmdr. Ward before he assumed command. He understood the Navy's high standards for command leadership and he failed to uphold them." said Parks.

Ward has been reassigned to administrative duties on the staff of Commander, Submarine Group 2.

Cmdr. Michael Savageaux has taken command of USS Pittsburgh. He was the commanding officer of USS Pittsburgh until last week, when Ward had assumed command on Aug. 3.

The Navy is investigating the matter.