Adm. Bill Moran, the U.S. Navy’s nominee for chief of naval operations, has declined his appointment as the 32nd CNO due to ongoing investigations, USNI News reported Sunday.
Moran, who was slated to formally assume the role on Aug. 1, wrote in a statement that he intends to retire amidst investigations into his personal email correspondence and relationship with a retired staff officer who has been “held accountable over allegations of inappropriate behavior.”
According to the more than 38-year Navy veteran, his decision will support the department’s commitment to “ensuring a culture and work environment where every person is treated with dignity and respect and free from hostile behavior of any kind.â€
Adm. John Richardson, the current CNO, will continue in his role until another nominee has been selected and confirmed.
Senate confirmed Moran in May along with Vice Adm. Robert Burke who will assume the role of vice CNO.
