US Army Chief of Staff Randy George has been requested to step down and take immediate retirement, according to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. This information was revealed by two US defense officials and a source familiar with the situation, as reported on Thursday.
Pete Hegseth, known for his previous role as a Fox News host, has been quick to make significant changes within the department. He has begun by dismissing top-ranking generals and admirals, aligning with President Trump’s national security agenda.
While the sources provided no specific reason for Hegseth’s decision to ask George to vacate his position, the news was initially reported by CBS News.
Randy George, an experienced infantry officer with service in Iraq and Afghanistan, was appointed as the Army’s top leader in 2023. Typically, appointments to this prestigious role last for a duration of four years.
George, an infantry officer who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, was confirmed to the top Army post in 2023.
Terms in that role usually run for four years.
Prior to holding the top job, George was the vice chief of the Army and, before that, the senior military adviser to then-Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin.
George’s removal adds to recent upheaval at all levels of leadership at the Pentagon, including the firing last year of the previous chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Air Force General C.Q. Brown, as well as the chief of naval operations and Air Force vice-chief of staff.
The office for George did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
