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

Former Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti recently addressed staff members after being ousted by the Trump administration along with other top leaders at the Pentagon. Despite the sudden change in leadership, Franchetti reassured Navy personnel that the mission of the Navy will continue “unabated and undisrupted.”

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, calling it the “honor of a lifetime.” She also took the time to thank Navy sailors for their dedication to supporting the United States.

In a post on LinkedIn, which has since been deleted, Franchetti emphasized the importance of the Navy’s role in deterring aggression, defending national security interests, and preserving the American way of life. She highlighted the Navy’s global presence and round-the-clock operations, stressing that there is no time to waste in fulfilling their mission.

Following the publication of her message, the Navy clarified that it was not intended for social media sharing. An official statement explained that the post was mistakenly shared by a junior staffer who did not have authorization to post Franchetti’s message on LinkedIn.

Franchetti’s journey in the Navy began when she joined the Navy Reserve Officer Training Corps as a student at Northwestern University and was commissioned in 1985. At that time, women were restricted from serving on combatant ships and aircraft, but a change in legislation in 1993 opened up opportunities for women like Franchetti to pursue leadership roles in the Navy.

Throughout her career, Franchetti commanded two carrier strike groups and held key positions such as deputy commander of U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa and commander of the U.S. 6th Fleet. Her leadership and dedication to the Navy were recognized by Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, who praised her distinguished career and service to the country.

In the wake of Franchetti’s departure, Vice Chief of Naval Operations Adm. James Kilby stepped in to assume her responsibilities until a permanent replacement is found. The Navy affirmed its commitment to maintaining forward-deployed lethal forces that enhance peace and deter adversaries.

As the Navy transitions to new leadership under President Trump, retired Air Force Lt. Gen. Dan “Razin” Caine has been nominated to replace Gen. CQ Brown as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Hegseth emphasized the importance of focusing the military on its core mission of deterring, fighting, and winning wars under the new leadership.

While Franchetti’s next assignment remains uncertain, her legacy as a trailblazer in the Navy and a dedicated leader is sure to leave a lasting impact on the sea service. The Navy continues to uphold its mission, ensuring the safety and security of the United States under the guidance of new leadership.