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Navy commander removed early after SEAL candidate's 'Hell Week' death
Fox News
Navy Capt. Brian Drechsler, previously reprimanded in connection with a SEAL candidate's pneumonia death during "Hell Week" training, has been relocated from his post early.
Drechsler was one of three Navy officers who received administrative "non-punitive" letters as a result of Mullen's death. They were not directly blamed for his death and Drechsler has not been formally relieved of duty, although such an investigation is likely a career-ender. His transfer is the first step in an ongoing review to determine if any additional punishment is warranted. Officials said Drechsler will be serving as a special assistant at Naval Special Warfare Command, and had been planning to retire.
Mullen’s death has shined a light on the brutal Hell Week that pushes SEAL candidates to their limits. The five-and-a-half day test involves basic underwater demolition, survival and other combat tactics, and during the test sailors get to sleep just twice, for two-hour periods only. It tests physical, mental and psychological strength along with leadership skills, and is so grueling that at least 50% to 60% don’t finish it.