Pentagon Loses Sixth Top Aide Under Hegseth Amid Leadership Turmoil

Justin Fulcher, a senior aide and advisor to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, has left the Pentagon after completing a planned six-month tenure, marking at least the sixth senior departure under Hegseth's leadership. While some reports suggested Fulcher was ousted amid ongoing turmoil, Fulcher and Pentagon officials characterized his departure as amicable and consistent with his initial commitment. Fulcher contributed to key defense initiatives, including acquisition program reviews, software procurement acceleration, and efforts to improve military readiness and lethality. His resignation follows a series of high-profile personnel changes and scandals that have unsettled the Pentagon, including leaks of sensitive military information and internal conflicts. The Defense Department expressed gratitude for Fulcher's service on behalf of President Donald Trump and Secretary Hegseth. Despite these challenges, Fulcher praised Hegseth's leadership and the dedication of the Department of Defense personnel, emphasizing ongoing efforts to revitalize the military and restore a warrior ethos.