Overview
- The New York Times reports Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has fired or sidelined at least two dozen generals and admirals over nine months.
- Senior military officials say some decisions ran counter to the advice of top commanders who served with the affected officers.
- Adm. Milton Sands, then head of the Navy SEALs, was removed after promoting DEI initiatives, according to the reporting.
- Hegseth canceled Rear Adm. Michael Donnelly’s promotion after a conservative outlet spotlighted a sailor’s drag performance on the USS Ronald Reagan.
- Promotions for officers linked to retired Gen. Mark Milley were delayed or canceled, including Maj. Gen. James Patrick Work, who was set to lead U.S. Central Command, as prominent critics warn of rising anxiety, mistrust, and eroding legitimacy.