As I have mentioned before, the U.S. Navy has had a series of horrible events resulting in numerous deaths and injuries as well as significant damage to ships in the Pacific Fleet.  The ongoing response to these events, and the questions they raise about naval operations lead to firings all the way up to and including the then-head of the U.S. 7th Fleet.

In the latest news, five officers that were involved in two of the collisions are facing charges of negligent homicide.  Next comes a hearing to decide if the officers will be brought before a court-martial.  In two separate incidents, the collisions involving the USS Fitzgerald and the USS John S. McCain claimed the lives of 17 sailors.  Other charges and administrative actions are also being brought against other lower-level crew on the ships.

A report released by the Navy late last year said that both of these collisions, as well as a ship grounding and a third collision were all avoidable.  Another report details numerous changes to be made to address many aspects of training as well as crew sleep and stress management.