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Commanding officer of Norfolk-based USS Arleigh Burke relieved of duty

Posted at 7:23 PM, Sep 03, 2020
and last updated 2020-09-03 19:24:58-04

NORFOLK. Va. – The United States Navy announced Thursday night that Cmdr. John Gaines, commanding officer of Norfolk-based destroyer USS Arleigh Burke, was relieved of duty due to "a loss of confidence in his ability to command."

Gaines was relieved by Rear Adm. Craig Clapperton, Commander, Carrier Strike Group TWELVE.

According to the Navy, Capt. Chris Follin, Commander, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 2, is serving as commanding officer, and will remain in place until a permanent relief is assigned.

Gaines has been temporarily assigned to Surfaces Forces Atlantic, the Navy said.