NORFOLK, VA — Yet another Navy commanding officer has joined the ranks of those relieved for cause.
In a break with naval tradition, in which a flag officer typically ends a subordinate officer’s career with vague assertions of a “loss of trust and confidence in the ability to command,” Capt. Roger “Rusty” Annkor abruptly removed himself from command of Destroyer Squadron Two, citing having misplaced his confidence in his own leadership abilities.
Capt. Annkor, a veteran surface warfare officer of over two decades of service on the seas, was once hailed as a rising star in the Navy. Known for his sharp wit, strategic acumen, and unflappable demeanor under pressure, he was seen as a natural leader destined for the highest command. However, during a routine combat drill aboard the USS Stout, a state-of-the-art destroyer under Annkor's command as part of Destroyer Squadron Two, Annkor was seen pacing nervously on the bridge, looking about frantically, paging through manuals, and repeatedly searching his pockets.
A witness said Annkor’s usually confident demeanor was replaced by “a look of doubt and hesitation.” Annkor struggled to make a decision, his once authoritative voice faltering as he gave conflicting orders to his crew. Then, declaring his confidence irretrievably misplaced, Annkor ordered himself from the bridge, confining himself to his stateroom or the wardroom until the ship returned to port.
