Commander Task Force 54 relieved the commanding officer and executive officer of the Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Jacksonville (SSN 699) of their duties following Admiral’s Mast held on Feb. 10 in Manama, Bahrain.
The relief of commanding officer, Cmdr. Nathan Sukols, and executive officer, Lt. Cmdr. Lauren Allen, comes after a thorough investigation into the collision that occurred Jan. 10 between USS Jacksonville and a vessel operating in the Arabian Gulf.
Commander Task Force 54, Rear Adm. Phillip Sawyer, relieved Sukols due to loss of confidence in Sukols’ ability to command and Allen due to loss of confidence in Allen’s ability to serve in the capacity of executive officer. Sukols and Allen were awarded non-judicial punishment during Admiral’s Mast. Sawyer also reviewed the actions of other Jacksonville crewmembers and held accountable those whose actions did not meet the high standards that are expected.
Sukols and Allen have been reassigned to administrative duties at Commander Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii.
Cmdr. Richard Seif, who previously served as commanding officer of USS Buffalo, is temporarily assuming all duties as commanding officer of USS Jacksonville. Lt. Cmdr. Todd Santala is temporarily assuming all duties as executive officer.
No one was hurt when the periscope on USS Jacksonville (SSN 699) struck the vessel that was reported as continuing on a consistent course and speed and offering no indication of distress or acknowledgement of a collision.
Damage was limited to one of Jacksonville’s two periscopes. Repairs have been completed.
Jacksonville is on a scheduled deployment to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.
[mappress] Naval Today Staff, February 11, 2013