YOKOSUKA, Japan-- Fallout from the August fatal collision of the USS John S. McCain continues.
The McCain's commanding officer, Commander Alfredo J. Sanchez, and executive officer, Commander Jessie L. Sanchez, of the guided-missile destroyer were relieved of their duties by 7th Fleet Commander Vice Admiral Phil Sawyer on Oct. 11. Both were relieved due to a loss of confidence. The John S. McCain was involved in a collision with the merchant vessel Alnic MC Aug. 21, that claimed the lives of 10 sailors, injured five more and damaged both ships. While the investigation is ongoing, it is evident the collision was preventable, the commanding officer exercised poor judgement and the executive officer exercised poor leadership of the ship's training program, according to the Navy. Commander Alfredo Sanchez was reassigned to Commander, Naval Forces Japan and Commander Jessie Sanchez was reassigned to the Ship Repair Facility Yokosuka. Commander Ed Angelinas, former commanding officer of USS McCampbell, assumed duties as acting commanding officer. Lt. Commander Ray Ball, chief engineer of USS Antietam, will assume duties as acting executive officer.