What The Hell America!

Admiral Lisa Franchetti’s abrupt dismissal raises urgent questions about how power, politics and progress intersect for women in military leadership.

Profiles in Courage is a new series honoring the extraordinary women and men who have transformed American institutions through principled public service. At a time when trust in government is fragile, these stories offer a powerful reminder of what ethical leadership looks like—from those who litigate for civil rights and resign on principle, to those who break military barriers and defend democracy on the front lines.

This month, we spotlight women in the Department of Justice, federal agencies and the military whose careers have been defined by integrity, resilience and reform. Their quiet heroism—often at personal cost—reaffirms the enduring role of public servants who choose justice over self-interest. Through their stories, Ms. pays tribute to a tradition of service that safeguards democracy and inspires the next generation to lead with courage.

Admiral Lisa Franchetti has exemplified unparalleled leadership, strategic expertise, and an unyielding commitment to national security for decades. A seasoned surface warfare officer, she commanded at all levels of the U.S. Navy, leading the U.S. 6th Fleet, U.S. Naval Forces Korea, and multiple carrier strike groups. Her distinguished career culminated in November 2023, when she became the chief of naval operations (CNO)—the highest-ranking officer in the United States Navy and the first woman in history to serve on the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

As a pioneering leader, Franchetti’s influence on global maritime security, combat readiness and force modernization was undeniable. She was the second woman in U.S. history to achieve the rank of four-star admiral, breaking barriers and proving that excellence in leadership transcends gender. She completed multiple operational deployments throughout her career, including as commander of a naval destroyer and two aircraft carrier strike groups, solidifying her reputation as a combat-tested leader in the world’s most powerful naval force.

A Political Dismissal That Undermines National Security

Yet, despite her decades of distinguished service, Franchetti was abruptly fired by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth under the Trump administration—making her the second high-ranking female military officer removed from command in just weeks. Her name had reportedly been included on a circulated list of officers targeted for dismissal, many of whom were associated with diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives or held leadership philosophies at odds with the administration’s views.

Franchetti’s firing was not a decision based on merit, performance or military readiness—it was a politically motivated move that sent shockwaves through the Pentagon and the Navy. It was a decision that not only disregarded her extensive operational expertise but also jeopardized the stability of the U.S. Navy at a time of increasing global threats.

Hegseth’s rationale for her dismissal was vague, stating that he did not believe certain top military leaders were “well-suited” to provide recommendations when lawful orders were given. However, for many, her removal was viewed as a direct attack on military independence and an affront to decades of her dedicated service.

A Legacy of Leadership and Inspiration

Despite the political turbulence surrounding her removal, Admiral Lisa Franchetti’s impact on the U.S. Navy is undeniable. She was a champion for combat readiness, modernization and the strength of the naval force, ensuring the U.S. Navy remained a dominant global power.

Perhaps her most lasting contribution was her inspiration to future generations of naval leaders. As the first woman to serve on the Joint Chiefs of Staff, she understood the significance of her role, stating:

“I don’t give a lot of time to thinking about being the first. But what I do think about is that this is the last time that anyone will have to be the first [woman] to be on the Joint Chiefs of Staff.”

Her words capture the essence of her historic legacy, extending far beyond her tenure as CNO. She paved the way for those who will follow, proving that excellence, dedication and leadership have no gender, only merit.

While her unjust dismissal may have prematurely ended her command, Franchetti’s legacy will endure—in the strength of the Navy she helped shape, the leaders she mentored and the barriers she shattered for future generations.

In fact, just this week, Franchetti made her first public statement since Hegseth fired her: She announced the inaugural Admiral Lisa Franchetti ROTC Scholarship, a program that encourages young people to continue their ROTC service in college. A Reserve Officers’ Training Corps graduate herself, Franchetti said the “ROTC and, more broadly, military service, opened the doors of opportunity for me 40 years ago, and I am confident it will do the same for today’s scholarship recipients.”