Good afternoon. I have completed my review of the Preliminary Inquiry into the 9 February collision between USS Greeneville (SSN 722) and the Japanese vessel Ehime Maru. I have elected to convene a Court of Inquiry as delineated in the U.S. Navy Judge Advocate General?s Manual.
This Court will be constituted of three U.S. Navy Flag officers and will be led by Vice Adm. John B. Nathman, the Commander, Naval Air Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet. Rear Adm. Paul F. Sullivan, the Director for Plans and Policy at the U.S. Strategic Command and Rear Adm. David M. Stone, the Commander, Cruiser Destroyer Group Five will also be members of this Court. We also intend to invite Japan to send a Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force flag officer to participate as an advisor.
As you may know, a Court of Inquiry is the Navy?s highest form of administrative investigation and a formal hearing. I have elected this course of action after reviewing the facts, opinions and recommendations expressed in the Preliminary Inquiry because a Court of Inquiry provides the necessary legal safeguards for the affected parties, complete subpoena power and a forum for public disclosure.
The Commanding Officer, the Executive Officer and the Officer of the Deck of USS Greeneville at the time of the accident have been designated as parties to the inquiry. They will be afforded their due process rights, including the right to be represented by counsel.
The Court is directed to inquire into all facets of the collision. They will recommend administrative or disciplinary action if appropriate, as well as make any other recommendations as to the circumstances surrounding the accident.
I expect this Court to convene on or about Thursday, 22 February, in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii so as not to conflict with the ongoing National Transportation Safety Board investigation.
The seriousness in which I view this tragic accident is reflected in the level of investigation and the seniority of the Court members. It will provide a full and open accounting for the American and Japanese people.
