Female employees’ allegations of “inappropriate office behavior” led to Rear Admiral Robert S. Cole’s removal from the command post at Norfolk-based Atlantic Fleet shore facilities. Women working in Cole’s office alleged that Cole kissed them on the cheek or held them, creating an uncomfortable office environment. There are also allegations that Cole had an “excessively familiar relationship” with a female subordinate, according to the Virginian-Pilot newspaper.
Admiral J. Paul Reason, commander-in-chief of the Atlantic fleet, cited the reasons for Cole’s dismissal as “a loss in confidence in his judgment and ability to command.”
