‘No time to waste’: Navy’s ousted top officer speaks out after DOD leadership shakeup

Former Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti is making her voice heard after being removed from her position by the Trump administration, along with other top leaders at the Pentagon. Despite the abrupt change in leadership, Franchetti is reassuring the public that the Navy’s mission will continue without interruption.

Franchetti, who made history as the first woman to serve as the chief of naval operations and on the Joint Chiefs of Staff, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to lead the sea service. In a heartfelt LinkedIn post, she thanked Navy sailors for their dedication and service to the United States.

“As America’s Warfighting Navy, we are tasked with deterring aggression, defending our national security interests, and preserving our way of life,” Franchetti emphasized. “Our operations span from the seabed to space, encompassing the globe and operating around the clock. Our mission remains steadfast, undeterred, and undisrupted. There is no time to waste.”

Franchetti’s journey in the Navy began when she joined the Reserve Officer Training Corps at Northwestern University and was commissioned in 1985. At that time, women were restricted from serving on combatant ships and aircraft. However, Franchetti witnessed a significant shift in policy when Congress repealed the law in 1993, opening doors for women to assume leadership roles within the Navy.

“I initially joined for the educational benefits, but I stayed for the sense of purpose, the opportunity to serve something greater than myself, and the privilege of working alongside exceptional teams in the world’s most formidable fighting force: America’s Warfighting Navy,” Franchetti shared on LinkedIn.

Throughout her career, Franchetti commanded two carrier strike groups and held prominent positions such as deputy commander of U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa, as well as commander of the U.S. 6th Fleet.

The removal of Franchetti and other top leaders by the Trump administration also included Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. CQ Brown and Air Force Vice Chief of Staff Gen. Jim Slife. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth acknowledged their distinguished service and dedication to the country, expressing gratitude for their contributions.

Vice Chief of Naval Operations Adm. James Kilby stepped in to assume Franchetti’s responsibilities temporarily until a permanent replacement is appointed. The Navy affirmed its commitment to maintaining operational readiness and continuing its crucial role in enhancing global peace and deterring adversaries.

As the Navy transitions to new leadership, President Donald Trump intends to nominate retired Air Force Lt. Gen. Dan “Razin” Caine to succeed Gen. Brown. Hegseth highlighted Caine’s embodiment of the “warfighter ethos” essential for the U.S. military’s mission of deterring, fighting, and winning wars.

Amidst these changes, the Navy remains focused on its vital mission, ensuring stability and security in an ever-evolving global landscape. The dedication and resilience of its sailors, past and present, are a testament to the Navy’s enduring commitment to safeguarding the nation’s interests.