In a bold move to uphold the integrity of our armed forces, Space Force Col. Susannah (Susan) Meyers was relieved of her command of the Pituffik Space Base in Greenland. This decision came swiftly after it surfaced that she had sent an email distancing herself from the national security policies of President Trump following Vice President J.D. Vance’s visit. Col. Meyers had been at the helm of the 821st Space Base Group since July of the previous year.
According to a statement from Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell, the Department of Defense takes a strong stance against any actions that could potentially undermine the chain of command or the President’s agenda. As Parnell succinctly put it, “Actions to undermine the chain of command or to subvert President Trump’s agenda will not be tolerated at the Department of Defense.”
“Actions to undermine the chain of command or to subvert President Trump’s agenda will not be tolerated at the Department of Defense.”
— Sean Parnell (@SeanParnellATSD)
April 11, 2025
The statement from Space Operations Command Public Affairs, released on April 10, 2025, details how Col. Meyers was removed by Colonel Kenneth Klock due to a “loss of confidence in her ability to lead.” The high standards of conduct, particularly regarding nonpartisanship, are crucial for commanders. It is now Colonel Shawn Lee who has taken over the leadership role at Pituffik.
The email in question, reported by Military.com, was intended to foster unity among the base’s personnel, including American airmen, Guardians, and international allies. Meyers stated, “I do not presume to understand current politics, but what I do know is the concerns of the U.S. administration discussed by Vice President Vance on Friday are not reflective of Pituffik Space Base,” reflecting her dissent from the administration’s views.
The swift removal of Col. Meyers follows another high-profile dismissal. Vice Admiral Shoshana Chatfield was relieved of her position as the U.S. Military Representative to the NATO Military Committee due to her failure to display portraits of the new civilian leadership, including President Trump, Vice President Vance, and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth.
“Congresswoman, I realize this may be a foreign concept to you but here at the DoD if you disrespect the chain of command & don’t do your job, you will be replaced.”
— Sean Parnell (@SeanParnellUSA)
April 9, 2025
The Department of Defense Chief of Staff, Joe Kasper, reiterated the importance of civilian control over the military, a foundational principle that ensures all military actions align with the objectives set by elected leaders. This chain of command is fundamental for sustaining the strength and unity of our armed forces.
