U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff General David Allvin will retire in November, just two years into his tenure. (Image Credits: ASF)
U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff General David Allvin abruptly announced Monday that he will be retiring in the next few months, ending his usual four-year term.
General Allvin, the 23rd Air Force Chief of Staff, did not provide a reason for his early retirement, which is set to take effect on or around November 1. His tenure will total just two years, half the usual length for the position.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve as the 23rd Air Force Chief of Staff and I’m thankful for Secretary Meink, Secretary Hegseth, and President Trump’s faith in me to lead our service,” Allvin said in a statement.
It remains unclear whether the decision to retire was voluntary or influenced by Pentagon leadership, including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. The Office of the Secretary of Defense did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
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Since taking office in January, Secretary Hegseth has restructured senior military leadership, dismissing multiple high-ranking officials, including:
Allvin’s early retirement adds to a series of abrupt changes at the top of U.S. military leadership under Hegseth’s tenure.
Due to Allvin's resignation, the Pentagon will shortly name a replacement to head the Air Force, which plays a crucial part in determining U.S. defense strategy in the face of international security threats. There is no set timeframe for choosing his replacement, according to officials.
This is a developing story. Updates may follow.
