Commander Cameron Yaste has been relieved of his command of the USS John S. McCain (DDG-56) due to a “loss of confidence in his ability to command,” according to a statement from the U.S. Navy. Rear Adm. Christopher Alexander, the commander of the Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group, made this decision. At the same time, the ship was deployed in the Middle East to counter threats from Iran-backed militants in the region. The specific reasons for the relief were not disclosed. Still, the term “loss of confidence” is commonly used in the military to indicate a failure to meet the expected standards of leadership, which could encompass a range of issues from ineffective leadership to misconduct.

Cmdr Yaste receives colors
Cmdr. Yaste receives the colors aboard the USS John S. McCain in March of 2024. Image Credit: US Navy / Kevin Tang

Cmdr. Yaste assumed command of the USS John S. McCain in October 2023 after serving as the ship’s executive officer. His reassignment comes at a time when the destroyer is actively involved in operations in the Gulf of Oman, a strategic location vital for U.S. naval operations in the region. Despite the change in leadership, the Navy has stated that there will be no impact on the ship’s mission or schedule. Capt. Allison Christy, deputy commodore of Destroyer Squadron 21, has temporarily assumed command of the McCain. Yaste will return to Naval Station Everett to assume administrative duties.

Yaste with backward scope
The original caption of this photo read: “Highlighting the amazing work of our U.S. Navy Sailors! From engaging in practice shoots, conducting maintenance, testing fuel, and participating in sea and anchor details, the U.S. Navy is always ready to serve and protect #readiness.” It was later taken down by the Navy, which wrote in the comments, “Thank you for pointing out our rifle scope error in the previous post.” At least they owned their mistake.

If Yaste looks vaguely familiar, it’s because he had a bout of internet fame back in April when he posted a photo of himself on the Navy’s official Instagram account. Trying to look like a badass, he became the subject of mockery when it became readily apparent that the rifle he was firing had the scope mounted backward, as well as having the lens cap on. This is from the commanding officer of a destroyer and a Citadel graduate.

The USS John S. McCain, an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, is part of Destroyer Squadron 23, which operates alongside the USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71). The ship’s primary mission involves ensuring the security of vital maritime routes in the region, particularly amidst heightened tensions and potential threats from Iranian-backed forces.​

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Disclaimer: SOFREP utilizes AI for image generation and article research. Occasionally, it’s like handing a chimpanzee the keys to your liquor cabinet. It’s not always perfect and if a mistake is made, we own up to it full stop. In a world where information comes at us in tidal waves, it is an important tool that helps us sift through the brass for live rounds.