Navy fires nuclear submarine captain because of 'a loss of confidence in his ability to command' as investigation is launched --Captain Geoffry Patterson suddenly relieved of command of the USS Georgia --Navy said he was under investigation but wouldn't give more information | 15 Jan 2024 | A US Navy captain has been suddenly and mysteriously relieved of command of a guided missile submarine. Captain Geoffry Patterson was summarily stood down as commanding officer of the USS Georgia by Rear Admiral Thomas Buchanan on Friday. The navy did not give a reason for his sudden sacking, saying only it was "due to loss of confidence in his ability to command." Submarine Group Ten, of which the USS Georgia is part, revealed Captain Patterson was under investigation, but wouldn't say more. The USS Georgia is one of four nuclear-powered guided missile submarines in the navy, able to carry up to 154 Tomahawk land-attack cruise missiles. They are often also used to support special forces in covert missions by ferrying them to their destinations.