The commanding officer of the USS San Juan, a Los-Angeles class attack submarine that returned to the Groton base just last month, has been relieved of duty due to “loss of confidence in his ability to serve effectively as commanding officer,” according to a press release from the U.S. Navy.
According to the release, Capt. Vernon Parks, the commander of Submarine Development Squadron 12 at Naval Submarine Base New London, relieved Cmdr. Joseph Biondi of command as a result of “shortfalls in professional performance.” The details of those alleged shortfalls are unclear.
Biondi began commanding the USS San Juan in April 2012. He has been “administratively reassigned” to the staff of Commander, Submarine Group 2, the release says.
Cmdr. Sam Geiger will serve as commander of the USS San Juan while officials work to find a permanent replacement, according to the Navy.
Geiger has been deputy commander at Submarine Squadron 4 and finished a three-year tour as commanding officer of the USS Toledo last month.
