Navy fires commanding officer of destroyer USS Mason

The Navy has relieved the commander of the destroyer USS Mason, service officials announced Friday.

Rear Adm. Alexis Walker, commander of Carrier Strike Group 10, relieved Capt. Chavius ​​Lewis from his duties due to “loss of confidence in Lewis’ ability to command,” the Navy said in a statement.

The brief statement did not provide additional details regarding the circumstances surrounding Lewis’ firing. The Navy often uses the phrase “loss of confidence” as a blanket phrase when removing senior leaders.

“The Navy maintains the highest standards for leaders and holds them accountable when those standards are not met,” the service said.

Lewis, who took command of Mason on November 14, 2024, was replaced by Captain Kevin Hoffman. Lewis was temporarily assigned to Commander Naval Surface Group Southeast.

Mason, assigned to U.S. 2nd Fleet, is currently participating in a mixed training unit exercise.

The statement said Lewis’ relief “does not affect the ship’s mission or program.”