Two cameramen shoot footage outside the gate of the Fort Hood military base in Texas, the United States, on Nov. 6, 2009. (Photo: Xinhua)

 
U.S. Army Secretary Ryan McCarthy on Tuesday directed the relief or suspension of 14 leaders at Fort Hood after an investigation at the base in Texas.

Speaking to reporters at the Pentagon, McCarthy said he was disappointed that leaders failed to effectively create a climate that treated all soldiers with dignity and respect, and have failed to reinforce everyone's obligation to prevent and properly respond to allegations of sexual harassment and sexual assault.

The disciplinary action was based on the findings of the independent review of the command's climate and culture, according to the U.S. Army.

McCarthy ordered the review after the discovery of the remains of Vanessa Guillen, a 20-year-old female soldier who was bludgeoned to death at Fort Hood earlier this year.