GENERAL David Allvin has announced that he is stepping down from his position as Air Force Chief of Staff.
Here’s what we know about the high turnover of senior military personnel so far during President Trump’s second term.
It follows a number of high-profile military chiefs leaving their positions during President Trump’s second term[/caption]
Who is Gen. David Allvin?
Gen. David Wayne Allvin is a highly decorated four-star general who has served as the 23rd Chief of Staff of the United States Air Force since November 2, 2023.
In 1986, he graduated from the US Air Force Academy with a BSc in astronautical engineering, before earning a master’s degree in management at Troy University.
Allvin has held numerous critical positions throughout his career, including Vice Chief of Staff of the Air Force, director for strategy on the Joint Staff, and commanding general of Nato Air Training Command — Afghanistan.
A command pilot with over 4,600 flight hours — including 100 combat hours — Allvin has participated in operations at levels ranging from hands-on squadron command, right up to shaping military strategy at the highest levels in the Pentagon.
Why is Gen. David Allvin leaving his post?
In August 2025, Gen. Allvin announced his retirement approximately two years into his expected four-year term as Air Force Chief of Staff.
The official statements from the Department of the Air Force, as well as from Allvin himself, did not provide a specific reason for his early retirement.
Gen. Allvin said: “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.
“More than anything, I’m proud to have been part of the team of airmen who live out our core values of integrity, service and excellence every day as we prepare to defend this great nation.”
Allvin will remain in his role until the Senate confirms a replacement, which is the normal procedure to ensure continuity.
While no formal reason has been cited, Allvin’s departure follows a pattern in President Trump’s second term of senior military leaders — especially those in Pentagon leadership — either retiring early or being replaced.
How many chiefs have left Trump’s office?
Gen. David Allvin is the fourth chief-level leader to depart President Trump’s office during his current administration.
Since his return to office, there have been a number of high-profile resignations or firings among the military’s top echelons.
This group includes:
- The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. Charles Q. Brown Jr.
- The Chief of Naval Operations, Admiral Lisa Franchetti
- The Vice Chief of the Air Force, Gen. James C. “Jim” Slife
- The Air Force Chief of Staff, Gen. David Allvin
In total, at least six senior Pentagon officials have been removed or retired early, including top legal advisors and the first woman to lead the Navy, Admiral Lisa Franchetti, who was officially relieved of her position by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth in February 2025.
Gen. Allvin is the fourth chief to leave office under President Trump’s current term, signaling significant flux among America’s top military leadership.
