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Navy Fires USS Mason Commanding Officer During Strike Drills
Captain Chavius G. Lewis relieved of duty due to "loss of confidence" as ship prepares for deployment
Published on Feb. 14, 2026
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The United States Navy has relieved the commanding officer of the guided-missile destroyer USS Mason, Captain Chavius G. Lewis, of his duties while the ship is part of a fleet preparing for potential strike deployment. The Navy cited a "loss of confidence" in Lewis' ability to command, although no further details were provided.
Why it matters
The firing of a Navy destroyer's commander can have ripple effects on board, as the commanding officer is responsible for training standards, accountability, morale and general command of the crew. Any leadership transition can stir up tension and unease, especially with the ambiguous reason given for Lewis' relief of duty.
The details
Captain Chavius G. Lewis was fired by Commander, Carrier Strike Group 10, Rear Admiral Alexis T. Walker. The Navy stated the relief "does not impact the ship's mission or schedule," and that it "maintains the highest standards for leaders and holds them accountable when those standards are not met." Lewis had assumed command of the Mason on November 14, 2024 and has been temporarily reassigned to the Naval Surface Group Southeast. Captain Kevin Hoffman is taking over as the new commanding officer of the USS Mason.
- Captain Chavius G. Lewis assumed command of the USS Mason on November 14, 2024.
- Lewis was relieved of duty on February 13, 2026.
The players
Chavius G. Lewis
The former commanding officer of the USS Mason who was relieved of duty due to a "loss of confidence" in his ability to command.
Rear Admiral Alexis T. Walker
The Commander of Carrier Strike Group 10 who relieved Captain Lewis of his duties.
Captain Kevin Hoffman
The new commanding officer of the USS Mason, taking over for Captain Lewis.
USS Mason
A guided-missile destroyer that is part of the Arleigh Burke Class of AEGIS Guided Missile Destroyers, built in Bath, Maine in 2001.
What’s next
The Navy has not provided any details on the specific reasons for Captain Lewis' dismissal or what the next steps will be in the investigation and transition of command.
The takeaway
The firing of a Navy destroyer's commanding officer during a critical training exercise ahead of deployment highlights the high standards and accountability the military places on its leadership, even if the reasons for relief remain unclear. This incident underscores the potential for disruption and unease that can arise from such a transition, and the importance of maintaining morale and readiness during a ship's preparations for deployment.
