U.S. Space Force removes commander of Greenland base following comments critical of Vance visit

The U.S. Space Force confirmed Thursday that it had removed the commander of the Pituffik base in Greenland, citing comments critical of Vice President J.D. Vance.

Col. Susannah Meyers was removed following a “loss of confidence in her ability to lead,” U.S. Space Force’s announcement said.

“Commanders are expected to adhere to the highest standards of conduct, especially as it relates to remaining nonpartisan in the performance of their duties,” the statement continues.

The Space Force added that Col. Shawn Lee has assumed command at Pituffik. 

Chief Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell cheered Col. Meyers’ removal, saying nothing will stand in the way of President Trump’s agenda.

“Actions to undermine the chain of command or to subvert President Trump’s agenda will not be tolerated at the Department of Defense,” Mr. Parnell wrote on X. 

Col. Meyers assumed control at Pituffik last July. 

According to a Military.com article promoted by Mr. Parnell, Col. Meyers sent an email to all Pituffik staffers following Mr. Vance’s visit last month, seemingly distancing the base from the vice president’s comments. 

“I do not presume to understand current politics, but what I do know is the concerns of the U.S. administration discussed by Vice President Vance on Friday are not reflective of Pituffik Space Base,” Col. Meyers wrote in the email, first shared with Military.com. “I commit that, for as long as I am lucky enough to lead this base, all of our flags will fly proudly — together.”

Mr. Vance visited the base in late March as part of Mr. Trump’s efforts to annex Greenland. In his remarks at the base, the vice president slammed Denmark, which still controls aspects of Greenland’s foreign policy.

“Our message to Denmark is very simple,” Mr. Vance said during his visit. “You have not done a good job by the people of Greenland. You have underinvested in the people of Greenland, and you have underinvested in the security of this incredible, beautiful landmass.”