Former senator declines to be recognized by Naval Academy

Former Sen. Jim Webb declined Tuesday to accept an award as a distinguished graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, citing pressure from female alumni angry about past statements he made that women aren’t suited for combat.

Webb, D-Va., was expected to receive a Distinguished Graduate Award on Friday along with four other alums in a ceremony in Annapolis, Md. The recognition is the most prestigious awarded by the Naval Academy Alumni Association and Foundation.

But critics said the selection of Webb — a highly decorated Marine veteran, 1968 academy graduate and recent presidential candidate — was unacceptable because of his history of disrespecting women.

Webb released a statement Monday night that said he was sorry for any trouble he caused. But on Tuesday evening he changed course, saying on his website that he does not want to be a distraction at the awards ceremony.