USS Decatur CO fired following command investigation

A spokeswoman for 3rd Fleet declined to say whether Cmdr. Bob Bowen was relieved of command specifically because of the investigation's findings

The captain of the destroyer USS Decatur was fired on Thursday following a command investigation that was completed in mid-December, Navy officials announced.

A spokeswoman for 3rd Fleet declined to say whether Cmdr. Bob Bowen was relieved of command specifically because of the investigation’s findings.

“There was an investigation and then he was relieved today due to loss of confidence in his ability to command,” said Lt. Rochelle Rieger.

Bowen enlisted in the Navy in October 1984, rising to the rank of chief petty officer before being commissioned in March 2000, according to his official biography. He went on to graduate from the Naval War College.

His military awards include the Meritorious Service Medal, two Joint Service Commendation Medals, six Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, and four Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals.

 

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Jeff Schogol

Senior Pentagon Reporter

Jeff Schogol is the senior Pentagon reporter for Task & Purpose. He has covered the military for nearly 20 years. Email him at schogol@taskandpurpose.com or direct message @JSchogol73030 on Twitter.