The former head of the Royal Navy has been stripped of his knighthood, more than a year after his service was terminated following an investigation into his conduct.
Ben Key was dismissed as First Sea Lord after his relationship with a younger female subordinate came to light.
In his first public comments since his dismissal, Mr Key said he fully accepted the outcome and acknowledged the need for accountability, "especially for those of us who have held leadership positions in the armed services".
He added: "It was a great privilege to serve my career in the Royal Navy. I deeply regret what happened and the impact my actions have had on others. I remain very grateful for the support of my family and friends throughout this past year."
Mr Key joined the Royal Navy in 1984 as a university cadet, later qualifying as both helicopter aircrew and a principal warfare officer.
Over a 41-year career in the Senior Service, he commanded a number of vessels, including HMS Iron Duke and HMS Illustrious, and saw active operational service in Kosovo and the Iraq War.
In 2021, he took command of Operation Pitting, the UK military's emergency evacuation of British nationals and eligible Afghans from Kabul following the Taliban's takeover in Afghanistan.
He was made a Commander of the British Empire (CBE) in 2016 and a Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath (KCB) in the 2021 New Year Honours List.
A Royal Navy spokesperson said: "The Royal Navy holds its personnel to the highest standards of conduct. Any allegations of unacceptable behaviour are thoroughly investigated, and those found guilty will face serious consequences.
"This includes referral to the Cabinet Office Forfeitures Committee for the withdrawal of state honours."
They said following his dismissal last year, that Mr Key had "fallen far short of values and standards expected".
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