Vice Adm. Scott Stearney, the commander of 5th Fleet, was found dead on Saturday in his home in Bahrain, Chief of Naval Operations Adm. John Richardson has announced.
"The Naval Criminal Investigative Service and the Bahraini ministry of the interior are cooperating on the investigation, but at this time no foul play is suspected," Richardson said in a brief video posted on social media on Saturday.
Rear Adm. Paul Schlise, 5th Fleet deputy commander, has assumed command, Richardson said.
"This is devastating news for the Stearney family, for the team at 5th Fleet, and for the entire Navy," Richardson said. "Scott Stearney was a decorated naval warrior. He was a devoted husband and father, and he was a good friend to all of us."
Team, it's my sad duty to inform you that today the Secretary of the Navy and I were informed that Vice Adm. Scott Stearney, our commander of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command and commander of U.S. Fifth Fleet in Bahrain, was found deceased in his residence in Bahrain today. pic.twitter.com/FN8DAlWUng
— Adm. John Richardson (@CNORichardson) December 1, 2018
Richardson's entire statement is below:
"Team: It's my sad duty to inform you that today the secretary of the Navy and I were told that Vice Adm. Scott Stearney, our commander of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, commander of U.S. 5th Fleet in Bahrain, was found deceased in his residence in Bahrain today.
"This is devastating news for the Stearney family, for the team at 5th Fleet, and for the entire Navy. Scott Stearney was a decorated naval warrior. He was a devoted husband and father, and he was a good friend to all of us.
"The Naval Criminal Investigative Service and the Bahraini ministry of the interior are cooperating on the investigation, but at this time no foul play is suspected.
"Rear Adm. Paul Schlise, the deputy commander of 5th Fleet, has assumed command is maintaining continuity in our responsibilities and posture in the U.S. 5th Fleet.
"I ask that you keep the Stearney family in your prayers and respect their privacy as they navigate through these very difficult times.
"We will keep you informed as we learn more. Thank you very much."
More articles from Task & Purpose:
There's a Reason for All That Hazing and Hazing and Chewing and We Shouldn't Ignore It
