Top Generals Portrait Removed

In a move that has sparked significant discussion, the Pentagon recently removed the portrait of retired General Mark Milley, the former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. This decision came on Monday, just days after the portrait was unveiled on January 10th. The portrait had been displayed in the prestigious Joint Chiefs hallway, alongside those of other former military leaders.

The Pentagon confirmed the removal but has refused to provide any further explanation, directing inquiries to the White House. However, the White House National Security Council also declined to offer a comment on the matter. This has raised questions among many, particularly in light of the ongoing political tensions between Milley and former President Donald Trump.

Milley, who was appointed to his position by Trump in 2019, became a polarizing figure due to their public disagreements on several key national security issues. After Trump left office, reports detailing Milley’s actions during the final days of the Trump administration fueled further animosity. Milley, who retired in 2023, was accused of undermining Trump’s authority, and in return, Trump suggested that Milley should face severe consequences, even going as far as to call for his execution.

The timing of the portrait’s removal also coincided with President Biden’s final hours in office, during which he issued pardons to Milley and several others. These pardons were presented as a gesture for their service, though Biden insisted they were not an admission of guilt. Trump, who has been vocal about seeking revenge on those he views as his enemies, wasted no time criticizing the pardons, publicly calling out Milley by name during his speech after being sworn in as the 47th president.

This latest development serves as a reminder of the deep divisions in Washington and the ongoing battle between the political elites and the populist forces within the Republican Party. As Trump continues to challenge his opponents, it’s clear that the tensions surrounding figures like Milley will not easily dissipate. The removal of his portrait is just the latest chapter in this contentious saga.