The commander of San Diego-based Carrier Strike Group 15 was relieved of his duties last week due to a loss of confidence in his ability to command, the Navy announced Saturday.
Rear Adm. Rick Williams was removed from his position by Vice Adm. Nora Tyson, commander of the U.S. Third Fleet, based on the initial findings of an ongoing investigation into the alleged misuse of government computer equipment.
Williams, who has commanded Carrier Strike Group 15 since July 2015, has been administratively reassigned to the staff of the Third Fleet.
Capt. Chris Barnes is serving as the interim commander of the strike group until a permanent replacement is identified.
The mission of Carrier Strike Group 15 is to train Pacific Fleet carrier strike groups, amphibious ready groups, and independently deploying surface ships prior to deployment.
