Navy dismisses USS Wyoming commander amid loss of confidence

On October 9, 2025, the U.S. Navy announced the dismissal of Commander Robert Moreno from his position as the commanding officer of the USS Wyoming Blue Crew. The Navy cited a 'loss of confidence' in Moreno's ability to command as the reason behind this decision. The service holds its commanding officers to strict standards of personal and professional conduct and takes accountability measures when those standards are not met. Although exact reasons for his removal were not disclosed, the military's use of the term 'loss of confidence' is common during such dismissals of senior leaders. After his relief from duties, Captain David Burke, who serves as the deputy for training at Submarine Squadron 20, was appointed to temporarily oversee the USS Wyoming Blue Crew. Moreno's career in naval service began as an enlisted sailor before he became a commissioned officer in 2005. He had previously commanded the Joint Force Marine Component between 2001 and 2003, providing him with varied leadership experience prior to assuming command of the USS Wyoming. Moreno's command of the USS Wyoming Blue Crew started in 2024, highlighting that he was relatively new to the role when he was relieved. The incident serves as a reminder of the Navy's commitment to maintaining high standards of leadership and accountability among its officers. While there has been no specific public documentation of wrongdoings from Moreno, such abrupt changes often spark discussions regarding command effectiveness and the evaluation processes within the Navy. As the Navy continues to prioritize leadership quality within its ranks, this dismissal may lead to further reviews of command leadership practices, especially in the submarine fleet. It underlines the importance of trust and reliability in a commanding officer's role. The situation could prompt discussions about what characteristics are deemed critical for Navy commanders and how the standards are enforced across various commands. Overall, the relief of Commander Moreno reflects ongoing efforts by the Navy to uphold its operational integrity and inspire confidence among crew members and the public.