President Donald Trump dismissed Air Force General CQ Brown from his role as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff on Friday, marking a significant shift in military leadership as part of an ongoing Pentagon personnel overhaul.

Brown, who has been a vocal advocate of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies, had previously faced criticism from conservative groups over his stance on race-based hiring and promotions within the military.

Following the announcement, Trump acknowledged Brown’s service but made clear that a change in leadership was necessary.

“I want to thank General Charles ‘CQ’ Brown for his over 40 years of service to our country, including as our current Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. He is a fine gentleman and an outstanding leader, and I wish a great future for him and his family,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.