Navy Punishes Only Two Sailors Over USS Manchester Illicit Wi-Fi Network Scandal

The Navy announced Friday that only two sailors, a chief petty officer, and an officer, were disciplined for an illegal Wi-Fi network on the USS Manchester. This comes over a year after 18 chief petty officers were sent to Captain's Mast for the unapproved setup, which violated military standards.

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The ship's command master chief was referred to a special court-martial, revealing the occurrence, which caused great alarm. Although the issue is serious, most of those implicated appear to have avoided major consequences.

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The Manchester squadron commander, Capt. Douglas Meagher wrote in the investigative report, "I have never seen such heinous and egregious conduct by a command master chief and an entire CPO Mess." The unlawful network evaded security safeguards, raising concerns about vessel breaches and unauthorized access.

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Given the network's size and senior personnel's involvement, the Navy's scant disciplinary action has raised doubts about accountability. The two personnel disciplined faced Captain's Mast, which can result in reprimands or pay deductions, but details are unknown.

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The Navy's response has sparked questions about openness and standards, especially when it includes higher-ranking personnel responsible for discipline and security.

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