The latest reporting suggests about 20 senior military leaders have been fired, forced out, or retired during Hegseth’s tenure, with one June 24 piece listing 20 named departures.

Quick read

  • A June 24 report says Gen. Chris Donahue’s departure made him the latest in a growing list of exits.
  • That same report counts 20 senior officers and officials who were fired, forced out, or retired.
  • Earlier April coverage also described Hegseth as removing “more than a dozen” senior military leaders.

What that means

The exact count can shift depending on whether a story counts only direct firings, forced retirements, or also blocked promotions and related departures. In plain English, the number most often cited in recent coverage is around 20 top commanders/senior officers.

Named examples in reports

Recent reports mention departures or removals including:

  • Gen. Chris Donahue.
  • Gen. Randy George.
  • Gen. David Hodne.
  • Adm. Alvin Holsey.

Bottom line

If you’re asking “how many top military commanders resigned over Hegseth,” the best current public count is roughly 20 senior leaders , though different outlets frame the total a bit differently.