Navy removes third commander from duty this year | 11 Feb 2024 | The U.S. Navy's Destroyer Squadron 2 commander was relieved of duty "due to a loss of confidence" in his ability to perform, the Navy said, marking the third naval commander to be removed this year. Capt. William "Mac" Harkin was relieved of command of the squadron by Rear Adm. Erik Eslich, the leader of the Carrier Strike Group 12, the Navy said Saturday. Capt. James Von St. Paul will take over Harkin's duties with Destroyer Squadron 2 and Harkin will temporarily work on the staff of the Naval Surface Force Atlantic's commander... The Navy removed 16 commanding officers last year, and a "loss of confidence" was given as the reasoning behind relieving 14 of them.