The Navy has “temporarily relieved” Cmdr. James “Slim” Pickens from his position as executive officer of the Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigate USS Gary, according to Naval Surface Forces Public Affairs.
Pickens was fired "due to loss of confidence because of offensive comments and behavior towards the crew."
Naval Surface Forces Pacific spokesman Rick Chernitzer told the Navy Times that Pickens' the alleged misconduct “is part of a pattern of behavior.” Chernitzer said the Navy had "previously counseled" Pickens for his conduct, but didn't give details.
The USS Gary is currently deployed in the U.S. 4th Fleet area of responsibility, where it is conducting counter-narcotics patrols.
The Navy has temporarily assigned Pickens to the staff of DESRON 1.
