In this Aug. 3, 2012 photo provided by the U.S. Navy, Cmdr. Michael P. Ward II, center, is saluted during the change-of-command ceremony for the nuclear submarine USS Pittsburgh at the Naval Submarine Base New London, in Groton, Conn. Ward was relieved of his command in August 2012 after he faked his own death to end an affair with a woman. Ward's lawyer said Friday, April 12, 2013, during a hearing in Groton to determine his status with the Navy, that Ward admits to the mistake and apologizes, and that he should not be expelled from the Navy. (AP Photo/U.S. Navy, Jason J. Perry ) (The Associated Press)
GROTON, Conn. – The military career of a former submarine commander who faked his death to end an extramarital affair appears to be over.
A panel of officers recommended Friday that Navy Cmdr. Michael P. Ward II be honorably discharged.
A Navy investigation found that Ward sent his mistress in Virginia an email from a fictitious person named Bob in July, saying Ward had died unexpectedly. Ward says he accepts "full and total accountability" for his behavior.
A lieutenant acting as prosecutor says there's no place in the Navy for a man of Ward's character.
The board's decision goes to the secretary of the Navy for approval or rejection within 90 days.
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