Coast Guard commandant terminated over border lapses, DEI focus: source
Admiral Linda Lee Fagan, the Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard, has been terminated by Acting Secretary of Homeland Security Benjamine Huffman due to concerns surrounding border security, recruitment issues, and a significant “erosion of trust,” according to a senior DHS official who spoke exclusively to Fox News.
Fagan’s termination comes as a result of leadership deficiencies, operational failures, and an inability to advance the strategic objectives of the Coast Guard. Key issues that led to her dismissal include the failure to adequately address border security threats, lack of effective leadership in recruitment and retention efforts, mismanagement in the acquisition of essential assets such as icebreakers and helicopters, an excessive focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, and a loss of trust stemming from the mishandling and cover-up of Operation Fouled Anchor.
Having assumed the role of the 27th Commandant of the Coast Guard on June 1, 2022, Fagan was responsible for overseeing all global Coast Guard operations, as well as managing a workforce of 42,000 active-duty personnel, 7,000 reserve members, and 8,700 civilians. Additionally, she oversaw the support of 21,000 Coast Guard Auxiliary volunteers.
The decision to remove Fagan from her position underscores the critical importance of strong leadership within the Coast Guard, particularly in addressing pressing national security concerns and ensuring operational effectiveness. Moving forward, the Department of Homeland Security will be tasked with appointing a new Commandant who can effectively lead the Coast Guard and uphold its mission of safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests.
This development serves as a reminder of the vital role that the Coast Guard plays in protecting the United States’ borders, upholding maritime security, and responding to a wide range of threats and challenges. As the search for a new Commandant begins, the focus will be on selecting a leader who can inspire confidence, drive operational excellence, and restore trust in the organization.
