Why was Cmdr. Robert Moreno fired from the USS Wyoming? What to know
USS Wyoming (SSBN-742) arrives in Norfolk, Virginia, on Feb. 2, 2024, to support the U.S. Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM) Component Commanders Conference. Image Source: U.S. Navy
The U.S. Navy has relieved Cmdr. Robert Moreno, commanding officer of the USS Wyoming Blue Crew, citing a loss of confidence in his ability to command. The decision was announced by Rear Adm. Bob Wirth, commander of Submarine Group Ten, marking another in a growing list of senior leadership dismissals within the Navy in 2025.
Moreno’s removal underscores the high standards of accountability the Navy demands of its commanders, especially those entrusted with leading Ohio-class ballistic missile submarines, the cornerstone of America’s nuclear deterrence strategy.
What the Navy Said About the Firing
In its statement, the Navy emphasized that commanding officers are held to the highest standards of personal and professional conduct, noting that they are expected to embody responsibility, reliability, and leadership.
While officials did not disclose specific details leading to Moreno’s dismissal, the phrase “loss of confidence” is a long-standing military term often used as a catch-all explanation for leadership failures. It generally indicates concerns about judgment, decision-making, or the ability to inspire trust among subordinates.
Robert Moreno’s Background and Service
Cmdr. Moreno commissioned as a naval officer in December 2005 and served aboard several submarines, including the USS Pennsylvania, USS Dallas, and USS North Carolina. He also held leadership roles at Commander Joint Force Maritime Component Command and Submarine Force Atlantic in Norfolk, Virginia.
He assumed command of the USS Wyoming’s Blue Crew on May 14, 2024. Following his removal, he has been temporarily reassigned to Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay in southeast Georgia.
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Leadership Change Aboard the USS Wyoming
With Moreno’s dismissal, Capt. David Burke, deputy for training at Submarine Squadron 20, has assumed temporary responsibility for the Wyoming’s Blue Crew.
The USS Wyoming, commissioned in 1996, is currently undergoing maintenance at Kings Bay, meaning its operational readiness will not be immediately impacted by the leadership shake-up.
A Pattern of Navy Leadership Firings in 2025
Moreno’s firing comes amid what some are calling a trend of Navy dismissals. In 2025 alone, the service has relieved multiple commanding officers, including the CO of the USS Santa Barbara, the chief of naval operations, and several other senior officials.
These repeated shake-ups have raised questions about discipline, oversight, and accountability within the Navy at a time of heightened global tensions.
Why This Matters
The firing of a submarine commander is not a routine matter. Ohio-class submarines like the USS Wyoming are a critical part of the U.S. nuclear triad, carrying Trident II ballistic missiles. Commanders of such vessels face immense responsibility, and any doubt in leadership is addressed swiftly to maintain the Navy’s credibility and national security confidence.
Comprehensive FAQ on Robert Moreno and the USS Wyoming
Q1: Who is Cmdr. Robert Moreno?
Cmdr. Robert Moreno is a U.S. Navy officer who served as the commanding officer of the USS Wyoming Blue Crew until he was relieved of command in October 2025.
Q2: Why was Cmdr. Robert Moreno fired from the USS Wyoming?
The Navy cited a loss of confidence in his ability to command, a term used when leadership fails to meet expected standards of responsibility, reliability, or trust.
Q3: What does “loss of confidence” mean in the Navy?
It is a broad term indicating that senior leadership no longer believes a commander can effectively lead. It can stem from performance, judgment, or conduct issues, though specific details are often withheld.
Q4: Who replaced Cmdr. Robert Moreno on the USS Wyoming?
Capt. David Burke, deputy for training at Submarine Squadron 20, has assumed temporary command of the submarine’s Blue Crew.
Q5: What is the USS Wyoming?
The USS Wyoming is an Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine commissioned in 1996 and based at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, Georgia. It plays a key role in America’s nuclear deterrent strategy.
Q6: How long was Robert Moreno in command of the USS Wyoming?
Moreno took command in May 2024 and was relieved in October 2025, serving roughly 17 months.
Q7: Has the Navy fired other commanders recently?
Yes. Moreno’s firing is part of a series of dismissals in 2025, including the CO of the USS Santa Barbara and other high-ranking officials, reflecting broader leadership scrutiny.
Q8: What happens to commanders after being relieved?
Typically, they are reassigned to shore duty pending further review, as is the case with Moreno, who was sent to Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay.
Q9: Does this firing affect the USS Wyoming’s operations?
No. The submarine is currently undergoing maintenance, so the change in leadership does not immediately impact its readiness or mission.
Q10: Why are submarine commanders held to such high standards?
Because Ohio-class submarines carry nuclear weapons, their commanders are entrusted with extraordinary responsibility. Even minor lapses in judgment or leadership can compromise national security.