Another Top Officer Departure: What's Happening at the Pentagon?
Pete Hegseth attends the meeting of NATO Ministers of Defence at NATO Headquarters in Brussels, Belgium on 15 October 2025. (Anadolu / Anadolu via Getty Images)
It seems like things are getting a bit turbulent over at the Pentagon. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is facing another high-profile departure, raising questions about the leadership climate within the Department of Defense.
Navy Adm. Alvin Holsey, the commander of U.S. Southern Command, is set to retire in December, a full two years ahead of his scheduled term. This news comes after 37 years of service in the U.S. Navy and only a year after taking command of the Southern Command, which oversees U.S. military operations in Latin America, including efforts targeting what some call "narcoterrorists."
Admiral Holsey's decision to retire early was announced via a social media statement where he expressed gratitude for his time in command. "Serving as your commander and deputy for the past 34 months has been a tremendous honor," he wrote, adding, "The SOUTHCOM team has made lasting contributions to the defense of our nation and will continue to do so. Keep Charging!!!"
Admiral Alvin Holsey addresses the Central American Security Conference in Panama City. (FRANCO BRANA / AFP via Getty Images)
So, what's behind this sudden departure? While Admiral Holsey hasn't publicly stated his reasons, reports suggest potential disagreements with Secretary Hegseth regarding operations in the Caribbean. A Reuters report mentions a source indicating that Holsey may have feared being fired. Sources speaking to The New York Times suggest concerns over escalating attacks on alleged drug boats in the Caribbean Sea. Additionally, The Washington Post reports Hegseth may have wanted Holsey to step aside due to "disenchantment" after the Trump administration authorized lethal force against suspected drug vessels off the coast of Venezuela.
However, a Pentagon source told The Daily Beast, “Admiral Holsey didn’t resign in protest and anyone writing that has no clue what they’re talking about.”
Hegseth, who has rebranded the Department of Defense as “The Department of War,” released a statement expressing gratitude for Holsey's service, but it offered no specific reason for the early retirement.
Pete Hegseth and Admiral Alvin Holsey visit the Panama Canal in Panama City. (Anadolu / Anadolu via Getty Images)
Senator Jack Reed, a leading Democrat on the Senate Armed Services Committee, voiced concerns about the timing of this exit, especially given tensions with Venezuela and President Trump's threats against Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. He said the departure raises concerns that the administration isn't listening to experienced military advisors and learning from past campaigns.
This isn't an isolated incident. Since Hegseth took office, several high-ranking military officials have either been fired or announced early retirements, including Lisa Franchetti, the first female officer to lead the Navy, and Air Force Chief of Staff General David Allvin. These changes are sparking concern about the stability and direction of the U.S. military.
Admiral Alvin Holsey receives an award in Asuncion, Paraguay. (DANIEL DUARTE / AFP via Getty Images)
Adding to the controversy, President Trump recently confirmed the CIA is conducting covert operations in Venezuela, alongside a significant U.S. military presence in the Caribbean. Trump stated the actions were taken to combat drug trafficking and address the release of prisoners into the United States.
It's a developing story, and we'll continue to provide updates as more information becomes available. The changes within the Pentagon and the ongoing tensions in Latin America are certainly worth watching closely.
Hegseth’s reporting restrictions have been labeled an attack on press freedom “without precedent.” (Anna Moneymaker / Getty Images)
The situation is further complicated by recent protests from journalists over new media access regulations implemented by Hegseth, which some view as an attempt to control the flow of information from the Pentagon.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
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