WASHINGTON (AP) — Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth recently removed nine Navy officers from a promotion list, which included all three women selected for promotion to one-star admiral. This decision has raised concerns among female officers regarding their career advancement and the potential implications for future generations of female military leaders.
The Navy had initially selected 31 officers for promotion, but Hegseth's intervention resulted in no women being promoted this year, despite women comprising approximately 25% of Navy officers and nearly 33% of midgrade ranks, according to 2024 military data. Eight female Navy officers, who spoke anonymously due to concerns of retribution, expressed fears that their careers may become politicized and that they now face limitations on their promotion potential.
The Pentagon has not provided a rationale for the removals. Sean Parnell, the Pentagon's top spokesman, stated that promotions are based on merit and do not consider race or gender. The Navy's promotion process has typically involved a board that evaluates the qualifications of eligible officers.
The promotion board was initially directed by former Navy Secretary John Phelan to recommend the best-qualified officers. Hegseth's actions, while within his rights, have been described as unusual by experts, raising concerns about the potential impact on military culture and the message sent to junior officers.
Hegseth has previously suggested that women in the military receive preferential treatment and questioned their suitability for combat roles. His recent actions, including the dismissal of Adm. Lisa Franchetti, the first woman to serve as the Navy's top officer, have further fueled concerns among current and future female service members about their opportunities within the military.
