Norfolk-based destroyer Stout deemed unfit, triggering fleet review

The Virginian-Pilot ^ | 26 Apr 08 | Dale Eisman

[PerConPat]

You see there is the real problem. Political leadership completely detached from military realities.

It is the duty of US Navy officers charged with the responsibility for command, of ships and fleets, to ensure that their superiors are kept informed as to readiness status. It would be valuable to know if senior Admirals have voiced concerns such as those you have mentioned. As I stated previously, results of the surface fleet review will be very important.

If Navy leaders have failed to properly assess and/or report the state of readiness, they must share in the blame. Politicians are notorious for giving the majority of the electorate what is desired, whether justified or not. And I don't hear the electorate clamoring for more naval assets, at present. This is will be a very interesting time for the Navy.

[PerConPat]

Correction:

“this is will be” = “this will be”

[Moonman62]

The finest mentor I ever had in the Navy told me they “give you your first command and see how lucky you are!”

I like that and it's probably for the most part true.