Additional Coverage:
- Hegseth’s ‘demoralizing’ move toward women ‘may weaken our military force’ says expert (irishstar.com)
Defense Secretary Hegseth’s recent personnel decisions have sparked controversy and raised concerns about the future of women in the military. Since January, at least five high-ranking female service members have been removed from their positions, including several who made history as the first women to hold their respective roles.
Former Defense Secretary Leon Panetta criticized the moves, stating they “undermine the role of women” and will likely “weaken our military force.” He expressed concern that the dismissals send a message that personnel decisions are not based on merit but rather on gender.
Among those removed from their posts are Vice Admiral Yvette Davids, the first female superintendent of the U.S. Naval Academy, Admiral Lisa Franchetti, the first female chief of naval operations, and Admiral Linda Fagan, the first female Coast Guard commandant. Vice Admiral Shoshana Chatfield, the first female president of the Naval War College, was also dismissed.
The Department of Defense denies any bias in its personnel decisions. Press Secretary Kingsley Wilson stated that under Secretary Hegseth, decisions are based solely on “merit and overall performance.” The DoD also touted record-breaking recruitment numbers under the current administration, attributing the surge to renewed confidence in military leadership.
However, the recent changes have left no female four-star officers on active duty, and none are currently slated for upcoming three- or four-star appointments. This absence, coupled with Hegseth’s previously stated opposition to women in combat, fuels concerns about the direction of the military under his leadership.