The U.S. Navy relieved the commanding officer of the guided-missile destroyer USS Mason (DDG-87) on Feb. 13, citing a "loss of confidence" in his ability to command - a phrase frequently used in military leadership changes but rarely explained in detail.
Rear Adm. Alexis T. Walker, commander of Carrier Strike Group 10, removed Capt. Chavius G. Lewis from command. In its official statement, the Navy said only that it "maintains the highest standards for leaders and holds them accountable when those standards are not met." No additional details were provided.
Lewis, who assumed command of the Mayport, Florida-based destroyer in November 2024, has been temporarily reassigned to Naval Surface Group Southeast. Capt. Kevin Hoffman has taken over as USS Mason's commanding officer.
At the time of the leadership change, the ship was participating in a Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) - a rigorous certification event designed to prepare a strike group for deployment. The Navy emphasized that the relief "does not impact the ship's mission or schedule."
So what does "loss of confidence" actually mean?
In Navy terminology, the phrase is intentionally broad. It can refer to a range of concerns, including leadership performance, professional judgment, or command climate issues. It does not necessarily indicate criminal wrongdoing. The service typically withholds specifics in such cases, citing privacy and due process considerations.
Relief from command is one of the most serious administrative actions the Navy can take against a senior officer. Commanding a destroyer represents the culmination of decades of service and carries responsibility for hundreds of sailors and multimillion-dollar systems. When a commanding officer is removed, it signals that Navy leadership determined a change was necessary to maintain standards and readiness.
For the crew aboard USS Mason, operations continue under new leadership. The ship remains assigned to U.S. 2nd Fleet and fully engaged in predeployment training.
Leadership transitions at sea can be significant, but the Navy's message in this case was clear: accountability and continuity remain priorities.
