USS Fitzgerald vs. ACX Crystal: the verdict is in.

When reporting on the recent tragedy that occurred between the US warship USS Fitzgerald and the container ship ACX Crystal, I wrote, "...while the media acts like there needs to be a big investigation to determine who is to fault, I can settle the matter for you easily.  The Fitzgerald was in the wrong.".  This was not a guess.  There are maritime rules regarding right of way when two boats are approaching each other and the Crystal was clearly the stand on vessel approaching from the starboard beam and being of poor steerage due to her size and weight.  The Fitzgerald was clearly the hold off vessel due to its location to the left of the Crystal and also having much more maneuverability and speed.  If the Crystal had been intentionally trying to ram the Fitzgerald, there is no way it could have done so if the crew were on its toes.  The Fitz is just faster and more maneuverable.

Of course during the liberal years everything was a cover up, a cover story, lack of personal accountability, etc.  The public would be told that everyone was operating under department guidelines, and this was an act of G_d, etc.  That's just how liberals work.  But as we swing more conservative there will in an increasing focus on personal accountability up and down the line. 

And so, today's news shows that the Captain of the Fitz has been relieved of command along with his XO and the Chief Petty Officer.  In addition, 12 others face nonjudicial punishment for having had their heads up their asses instead of taking their jobs seriously.  These are pretty stiff actions, as they should be seeing how this negligence cost seven US servicemen their lives outside of wartime.  But the good news is that it's not being covered up or played down.  The military is being transparent about the outcome of the investigation and those responsible, including the top command of the boat who are in fact responsible for everything that happens on the boat, are being held accountable.

This action will send a message not only to the military but to other government agencies where people come in harms way including the FBI and CIA.  The message is that if you f-up you will not have any air cover from the establishment.  You will be tossed under the bus where you belong right along with Cmdr. Bryce Benson; the executive officer of the Fitz, Cmdr. Sean Babbitt; and Master Chief Petty Officer Brice Baldwin.