Posted on: Wednesday, July 28, 2004

Army replaces Iraq-bound battalion's commander

By William Cole
Advertiser Military Writer

A Schofield Barracks battalion commander whose soldiers are about to deploy to Iraq has been relieved of command for "officer misconduct," an Army spokesman said.

Lt. Col. Eric Criner, commander of the 17th Corps Support Battalion, was removed from command about two weeks ago, said Troy Griffin, deputy public affairs officer for the 25th Infantry Division (Light).

Griffin said he could not elaborate on the reasons for the removal, citing concerns over possible civil litigation.

"Allegations against him (Criner) were investigated and it was found that an unfortunate set of events affecting the good order and discipline of the unit had occurred and he was removed in a routine administrative action," Griffin said yesterday.

Griffin said further disciplinary action is not anticipated, although when a lieutenant colonel is relieved of command for misconduct it is viewed as a career-ender. Reassignment for Criner is pending, Griffin said.

Criner could not be reached for comment.

Lt. Col. Patricia Matlock replaced Criner in command of the battalion, which includes a headquarters and headquarters detachment, a direct support maintenance company, a field service quartermaster company, and a harbormaster detachment.

Reach William Cole at wcole@honoluluadvertiser.com or 525-5459.