Four-star Army General William Ward is currently under investigation and facing possible demotion for misusing government funds and property. Chiefly, he stands accused of “allowing family members and other unauthorized people to fly on government planes.”
He is also being investigated for spending “excessive amounts of taxpayer dollars on hotel rooms, and other expenses when he traveled as head of African Command.”
At this point in time, Sec. of Defense Leon Panetta is awaiting a summary report from the Defense Department inspector general. Upon receipt of that report, Panetta could demote Ward: a move that would cost the general upwards of $1 million in retirement pay and benefits.