US Navy: Destroyer CO fired during pre-deployment training mission

February 17, 2026, by Fatima Bahtić

The US Navy has relieved the commanding officer of the guided-missile destroyer USS Mason (DDG-87), Capt. Chavius G. Lewis, citing a “loss of confidence in his ability to command.”

Commander, Carrier Strike Group 10, Rear Admiral Alexis T. Walker ordered the removal of Capt. Chavius G. Lewis from command of the Arleigh Burke-class destroyer USS Mason (DDG-87) on February 13, 2026. The official Navy statement cited a “loss of confidence in Lewis’ ability to command” as the reason for the relief.

The navy’s public release made clear that the decision reflects the service’s longstanding standard of holding leaders accountable to the highest command expectations. Capt. Kevin Hoffman has been designated as Mason’s new commanding officer pending further assignments.

At the time of the relief, USS Mason was participating in Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX), a certification exercise under the US Second Fleet that prepares ships and strike groups for deployment.

According to the US Navy, the change in leadership will not affect the ship’s ongoing mission or predeployment schedule.

Capt. Lewis assumed command of the Mason on November 14, 2024, and has been temporarily reassigned to Commander, Naval Surface Group Southeast. The navy’s announcement did not disclose specific performance issues that led to the “loss of confidence” determination.

USS Mason, homeported in Mayport, Florida, is an active Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer assigned to the US 2nd Fleet. The ship has previously operated in high-tempo environments, including responses to threats in the Red Sea and Arabian Sea.