1. United States
2. N.Y.
3. Letter

The recent removal of top female military leaders under the Trump administration raises grave concerns about the role and treatment of women in the armed forces. Ousting accomplished officers like Vice Adm. Yvette Davids, the first female superintendent of the U.S. Naval Academy, without proper justification undermines principles of merit and performance. It sends a disheartening message that devalues the immense contributions of women to our national security. This pattern, coupled with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's widely documented opposition to women in combat roles, risks creating a chilling effect on recruitment and retention of female service members. With women comprising 18% of the military, their participation is vital to maintaining a strong and capable force. Historically, women have proven their ability to meet rigorous standards and excel in roles previously restricted to men. Undermining diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts does little to enhance military readiness. Rather, it perpetuates harmful stereotypes and barriers that impede the meritocracy essential to an effective fighting force. Upholding combat standards is crucial, but there is no evidence that admitting women has compromised these standards. Instead, their inclusion has broadened the talent pool and strengthened operational capabilities. The U.S. military's greatest asset is its people – men and women dedicated to defending our nation. Policies that discriminate based on gender rather than merit weaken this essential human capital. For the sake of national security, women must have equal opportunities to serve at all levels based on their qualifications, without facing arbitrary barriers or dismissals motivated by bias. A strong military draws strength from its diversity, not from marginalization of capable leaders.