The Navy has confirmed that it will punish the commanding officer of the nine sailors and two patrol boats seized by Iran back in January, Stars and Stripes reported.
Lt. David Nartker, who was filmed by the Iranians while in detention apologizing for the incident, will be the last reprimanded, according to Stars and Stripes, bringing an end to the international embarrassment for the Navy.
Nartker and his nine subordinates were detained and interrogated overnight by the Iranians after their two riverine command boats crossed into Iranian waters on Jan. 12.
Stars and Stripes reported the Navy investigation surfaced several indiscretions by Nartker's crew:
- They were not prepared for the mission;
- Had failed navigation tests;
- Were sleep deprived;
- The boats had broken equipment, including radios.
Nartker's punishment could range from forfeiture of pay to being discharged from the Navy, Stars and Stripes reports.
Three officers have already been removed from command, and two enlisted personnel were reprimanded, Stars and Stripes reports.
The Navy investigation also concluded Iran violated international law when it held the Americans at gunpoint, according to the Washington Free Beacon.
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