Air Force Chief Gen. Allvin Forced Out During Pentagon Shake-Up

U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff General David Allvin is set to retire early this year, two years into his four-year term, following a directive from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth amid a broader military leadership overhaul under President Donald Trump. Allvin's departure, expected around November 1, was reportedly not voluntary and stems from Pentagon dissatisfaction with his handling of preparations for potential security risks involving China. This move is part of a series of high-profile military dismissals since Trump returned to office, including leaders from the Coast Guard, Navy, Joint Chiefs of Staff, and Cyber Command, reflecting a significant reshaping of the military's top brass. Despite the shake-up, Allvin expressed gratitude for his service and pride in the Air Force's core values. Gen. Thomas Bussiere, nominated as vice chief of staff in July and recognized for his role in Operation Midnight Hammer against Iranian nuclear sites, is considered a likely successor. The rapid changes at the Pentagon have unsettled many within the military establishment, which traditionally values continuity in leadership.