<p>He actually did get a medal - for spending 3 weeks night and day fighting with his crew to keep the ship afloat. </p>
<p>And it’s interesting about your point, having been in the Navy (which I haven’t). The article references a “Navy tradition of punishing any ship commander who hazards his vessel” and quotes a retired admiral as saying promotion is based on having a successful tour. Period. I guess you have to be in that culture to appreciate such a tradition. You’d think it would be the opposite - if you have experienced unprovoked action and heroically dealt with it, that alone would be grounds for promotion.</p>
<p>Those of us about to have our sons and daughters enter this culture - especially those of us who haven’t lived in it - want to believe it is a fair, just and idealistic culture that rewards heroism, courage and loyalty. I can only hope incidents like this are in the minority. Fortunately, this one is being exposed and we the public can express our views about it.</p>