Navy dismisses USS commander after viral rifle photo error
Commander dismissed over viral backwards scope photo, replaced by Captain Christy
The Navy has relieved the commander of the USS John McCain destroyer, Cameron Yaste, of his duties. This decision comes four months after a viral photo showed Yaste using a rifle with a scope mounted backwards, sparking widespread criticism and trolling on social media.
The US Navy’s official statement cited a “loss of confidence in his ability to command the guided-missile destroyer” as the reason for Yaste’s dismissal.
The statement did not provide additional details or reasons for his replacement. The USS John McCain is currently stationed in the Gulf of Oman, supporting the San Diego-based aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt.
The controversy began in April when a photo featuring Yaste in a firing stance with a rifle scope mounted backwards was posted online. The Marine Corps reportedly mocked the Navy by sharing this image on social media, which was later deleted.
However, the photo had already gone viral, attracting significant attention. The Navy later addressed the issue on social media, acknowledging the error and stating, “Picture has been removed until EMI (extra military instruction) is completed.”
Captain Allison Christy, the deputy commodore of Destroyer Squadron 21, will temporarily take over Yaste’s role. Destroyer Squadron 21, part of the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group, is deployed in the Gulf of Oman.
Military officials explained the Pentagon’s deployment of carriers to the Middle East is a strategic move to support Israel in case of an attack by Iran or other nations.
What Other Media Are Saying
- CBS News reports that Cmdr. Cameron Yaste, commanding officer of the USS John McCain, has been relieved of duty after a photo showed him firing a rifle with a backward scope, causing ridicule online. (read more)
- The Navy relieved Cmdr. Cameron Yaste of his duties as the commanding officer of USS John S. McCain due to a loss of confidence in his ability to command. (read more)
- Fox News reports that Cmdr. Cameron Yaste, the commander of USS John McCain, has been relieved of his duties following a photo of him firing a rifle with the scope mounted backward, which went viral on social media. The Navy stated that it had lost confidence in Yaste’s ability to command the guided-missile destroyer. (read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Why was the commander of the Navy destroyer relieved of duty?
He was relieved due to a loss of confidence in his ability to command.
What was the viral picture about?
The viral picture showed Commander Yaste firing a rifle with a scope mounted backwards.
Who is replacing Cameron Yaste?
Captain Allison Christy is temporarily replacing Cameron Yaste.
What did the Navy say about the viral photo?
The Navy acknowledged the rifle scope error and removed the picture until extra military instruction is completed.
Why are aircraft carriers deployed in the Middle East?
They are positioned to assist Israel in repelling potential attacks from Iran or other countries.
