Story perspectives

Defense Secretary Hegseth Forces Respected Colonel's Retirement

2/17/2026

Summary

Story summary

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth forced the retirement of Army Col. Dave Butler, a respected spokesperson for former Gen. Mark Milley.
Butler had been nominated for promotion.
He retired to avoid delaying his colleagues' promotions.
Army Secretary Dan Driscoll, a close ally of Vice President JD Vance, resisted Hegseth's demands for months and ultimately complied.
Critics say Hegseth's moves are politically motivated against opponents of U.S. President Donald Trump in the military.

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Story summary

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth forced the retirement of Army Col. Dave Butler, a respected spokesperson for former Gen. Mark Milley.
Butler had been nominated for promotion.
He retired to avoid delaying his colleagues' promotions.
Army Secretary Dan Driscoll, a close ally of Vice President JD Vance, resisted Hegseth's demands for months and ultimately complied.
Critics say Hegseth's moves are politically motivated against opponents of U.S. President Donald Trump in the military.