Navy captain relieved for alleged drunkenness in Russian port

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The captain of a San Diego-based Navy ship has been relieved of command for allegedly getting drunk during a goodwill port visit to Vladivostok, Russia, the Navy Times reported Saturday.

Cmdr. Joseph Darlak, captain of the frigate Vandegrift, was relieved Friday along with the ship's executive officer, Cmdr. Ivan Jimenez. Two other officers were also reassigned. In each case, drinking was involved, a Navy spokeswoman said.

"Inappropriate behavior and judgment in positions of authority are unacceptable," the spokeswoman said.

The drinking allegedly occurred while the ship was on a three-day visit to Vladivostok, home port of the Russian Pacific fleet. The change in command occurred Friday with the ship in Guam.

Darlak, a 1990 graduate of the Naval Academy, was commander of the Mine Warfare Training Center for two years and was the executive officer of the destroyer Stethem. Jimenez had served as commander of the transport dock ship Dubuque.

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-- Tony Perry in San Diego

Photo: Navy Cmdr. Joseph Darlak receives traditional gift of salt and bread during goodwill port visit to Vladivostok. Credit: U.S. Navy.