[Sola Veritas]

"Seems like a good way to lose good men."

Yes, it does appear harsh. However, the Captain of a vessel is responsible for the training of all crew members, even delegated it is still his responsibility. So, even if a subordinate messes up, the Captain usually goes down also. Because he didn't do his job of training. These high standards are actually a good idea. However, it is hard to be a ship's CO and not be a bit of a hardass.

Chances are the Captain of the sub was not using good judgement using poorly charted routes.

[DManA]

The other day a sailor commited suicide on a sub. What happens to that captain?

[jettester]

Why do so many of you here equate "relieved of command" with the end of a career? The only ones who know for sure what went down are the guys on that sub (bless their souls for their service). The methods the military uses for the most part seem draconian and career-ending as in this case, but in the end, will do a lot to reestablish his legitimacy as a commander if proved innocent of wrongdoing.

If he is found guilty, he's toast. But if he is cleared in this accident, the very fact he was put through this process and found innocent by a group of peers will add legitimacy to his next command. Kind of like the idea of having to get back on the horse if it throws you off. Ideally, the process will put to rest the blame issue for him (if found innocent) and build up confidence for his future subordinates. This will be sorely needed (especially in subs) when "follow the leader" can have such serious consequences for ones' life.