WASHINTON (AP) -- The Navy has replaced the admiral in command of an aircraft carrier strike group in the Middle East, pending the outcome of an internal investigation into undisclosed allegations of inappropriate judgment.
The Navy announced Saturday that Read Adm. Charles M. Gaouette is returning to the USS John C. Stennis' home port at Bremerton, Wash. He is being replaced initially by his chief of staff until the arrival of Rear Adm. Troy M. Shoemaker, who will assume command until the investigation is completed.
It is highly unusual for the Navy to replace a carrier strike group commander during its deployment.
The Navy did not reveal details of the allegations, citing only an accusation of "inappropriate leadership judgment" that arose during the strike group's deployment to the Middle East.
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