The U.S. Navy's Fundamental Problem
By Edward Lundquist
A series of mishaps at sea has prompted the U.S. Navy to examine the way it conducts business.
The accidents shared some similar contributing causes such as fundamental watch standing and seamanship, and each of these incidents were preventable.
The four incidents involved surface combatants in the Seventh Fleet area of responsibility.
? On January 31, 2017, the Yokosuka-based Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruiser USS Antietam, while anchored in high winds, dragged anchor and ran aground in Tokyo Bay. 1,100 gallons of hydraulic fluid spilled into Tokyo Bay.
? On May 9, 2017, the San Diego-based Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruiser USS Lake Champlain (CG 57) collided with fishing vessel Nam Yang 502 off the Republic of Korea
? On June 17, 2017, Yokosuka –based Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Fitzgerald (DDG 62) collided with ACX Crystal off the coast of Japan. Seven Sailors died.
? On August 21, 2017, the Yokosuka-based Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS John S. McCain (DDG 56) collided with merchant vessel Alnic MC while preparing to enter the Singapore Strait for transit to Sembawang, Singapore. 10 Sailors were killed.
Several investigations were conducted, including one by Secretary of the Navy Richard Spencer, which is ongoing.
For the full story, visit: