U.S. Department of War Announces Review of Misconduct Allegations Against Retired Navy Captain

The U.S. Department of War has announced that it is reviewing serious allegations of misconduct raised against Captain Mark Kelly, USN (Ret.), according to an official statement released on Monday.

The nature of the allegations has not been disclosed, and officials emphasized that the department is following all required legal and procedural steps.

According to the statement, the review is being conducted under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), including provisions under 10 U.S.C. § 688, which allow for the possible recall of certain military retirees to active duty for court-martial proceedings, if warranted.

Administrative measures also remain possible depending on the outcome of the inquiry.

Officials stressed that the process will remain confidential as the department works to “ensure due process and impartiality,” noting that further public comment will be limited to preserve the integrity of the proceedings.

The department also reiterated that retired service members remain subject to the UCMJ for qualifying offenses, and highlighted federal statutes such as 18 U.S.C. § 2387, which prohibits actions aimed at undermining the loyalty, morale, or discipline of the armed forces.

In its message, the department reminded active-duty personnel that they are legally required to obey lawful orders and that such orders are presumed lawful under military law.

“A servicemember’s personal philosophy does not justify or excuse the disobedience of an otherwise lawful order,” the statement read.

No additional details have been released, and it remains unclear when the review will conclude.

The Department of War stated that updates will be provided only when appropriate under legal guidelines.