WASHINGTON: In a shocking move, President Donald Trump removed the top US general, the Navy chief, and the Air Force vice chief. The decision was announced Friday night, marking a major shift in military leadership.
Trump dismissed Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Charles Q. Brown, replacing him with retired Lt. Gen. John Dan “Razin” Caine. This is unusual since Caine is retired and not a four-star general. Trump described Brown as a “fine gentleman” and “outstanding leader” but hinted at upcoming changes.
Navy Chief Fired
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth followed Trump’s move by firing Admiral Lisa Franchetti, the Chief of the Navy. Franchetti, the first woman on the Joint Chiefs of Staff, was labeled a “DEI hire” in Hegseth’s 2024 book. The book criticized her appointment as prioritizing diversity over naval operations.
Hegseth also removed General James Slife, the Vice Chief of the Air Force. Additionally, he requested nominations for new Judge Advocates General for the Army, Navy, and Air Force. This suggests more firings are coming.
Reshaping Military Leadership
Trump’s administration aims to refocus the military on combat readiness and warfighting. Hegseth emphasized that new leadership will prioritize deterring, fighting, and winning wars.
The firings had been expected for weeks, with speculation circulating in the Pentagon. Reports suggest a formal list of planned removals was shared with Republican lawmakers. This list made Brown’s dismissal seem inevitable.
Targeting “Woke” Leadership
Trump has frequently criticized what he calls “woke” military leadership. Right-wing figures have often targeted Brown, making his removal unsurprising. Pentagon officials speculated he would be dismissed soon after Trump’s return to office.
Federal law requires top military officers to be selected from four-star generals in combatant commands or military services. However, the President can waive this requirement if deemed necessary for national interest.
New Leadership Goals
Trump justified Caine’s appointment by highlighting his role in defeating the ISIS caliphate. The administration believes his experience aligns with their vision for the military’s future.
With more nominations expected soon, this move signals Trump’s intent to reshape military leadership according to his policies. The military’s direction under this administration remains a key topic of debate.
