
What unfolds when a retired general feels the full weight of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s scrutiny?
At a Glance
- Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth revokes retired Gen. Mark Milley’s security clearance and protection.
- The Pentagon’s inspector general will investigate Milley’s conduct for a potential demotion post-retirement.
- Milley’s tenure as Joint Chiefs chairman during Trump’s first term was marked by controversy.
- Portraits of Milley may be removed following this investigation.
- The new measures are seen as a move to restore accountability and address chain of command issues.
Unraveling the Decision
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has taken decisive action against retired Gen. Mark Milley by revoking his security details and clearance. The decision has prompted an investigation by the Pentagon’s inspector general, who has been instructed to evaluate Milley’s conduct and explore the possibility of reopening his military grade review. This move underscores the ongoing tensions between Milley and Hegseth, both prominent figures with differing views on military leadership and national security. The investigation focuses on Milley’s controversial decisions during his service.
Milley served as Joint Chiefs chairman during President Trump’s first term, and his tenure was marked by a deterioration in relationships. He opposed Trump’s interest in employing military force against domestic protestors after the death of George Floyd, which Trump viewed as undermining his authority. Milley’s commitment to advising on constitutional obligations brought his actions under intense scrutiny and criticism from the Trump administration.
Pentagon confirms Hegseth ordered IG investigation into Gen Milley and revoked his security detail despite ongoing threats.
“The Secretary informed General Milley today that he is revoking the authorization for his security detail and suspending his security clearance as well.…— Jennifer Griffin (@JenGriffinFNC) January 29, 2025
Controversial Calls and Consequences
Milley’s calls to his Chinese counterpart raised eyebrows, leading to accusations of treason from Trump. The retired general defended these calls, insisting they were routine and part of his duty. Nevertheless, these incidents have now returned to haunt Milley as the ongoing investigation challenges the decisions he made while occupying senior military ranks.
“The inspector general review will include ‘an inquiry into the facts and circumstances surrounding Gen Milley’s conduct so that the Secretary may determine whether it is appropriate to reopen his military grade review determination,’” – Pentagon spokesman John Ullyot
Adding further fuel to this fire, Milley criticized Trump in his retirement speech, emphasizing his loyalty to the Constitution over any political leader. He confirmed his belief in this vital constitutional principle, which likely further inflamed Trump’s ire and led to the current actions against him. Milley’s past continues to echo despite his retirement.
Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth Terminates Gen. Milley's Security Clearance and Detail
https://t.co/rxDSnieChd— Townhall.com (@townhallcom) January 29, 2025
Political Implications and Future Steps
The measures taken against Milley also raise questions about the underlying political motivations. Defense Secretary Hegseth’s office says these moves intend to restore accountability within the military. Joe Kasper, Hegseth’s chief of staff, criticized Milley’s actions as corrosive to national security and detrimental to the chain of command’s integrity. Moreover, the revocation of security protection extends to other officials associated with Trump, painting a broader picture of a shift in priorities within the current administration.
Milley’s military legacy faces considerable scrutiny, and his once honored portraits might soon vanish as symbolic gestures of disapproval. Coming up, the defense community and Nation will certainly be waiting to see how this investigation unfolds, its final judgment, and the groundwork it sets for handling other high-profile instances where the integrity of command may be called into question.