Pentagon Enforces Discipline at Stars and Stripes Amid Media Uproar
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The Department of Defense removed the editor-in-chief and a senior reporter from Stars and Stripes after their public comments challenged the chain of command, sparking criticism from media circles but underscoring the importance of order in military-affiliated publications.
The Pentagon announced Friday the termination of Stars and Stripes editor-in-chief Jeff Slavin and senior reporter Michael Korte, citing insubordination after the pair appeared on CBS and aired grievances about editorial policy. Slavin admitted he was fired for declaring that any censorship of news for service members would be a 'red line,' while Korte was dismissed after stating his allegiance to Stars and Stripes rather than the Pentagon or policymakers, raising questions about loyalty and professionalism.
National Press Club President Mark Schoeff Jr. predictably criticized the Pentagon's decision, accusing the Department of trying to influence coverage and calling for the firings to be reversed. 'Firing a newspaper editor after he publicly defended his newsroom's editorial independence is deeply troubling,' Schoeff said, echoing the usual media establishment talking points.
The dismissals come shortly after longtime publisher John Lederer retired and the Pentagon installed Navy Capt. William Urban as deputy publisher, a move designed to bring fresh leadership and ensure alignment with the Department's mission. Democratic senators, ever eager to politicize military affairs, have written to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth demanding explanations for Urban's appointment.
Lederer, in a staff memo, admitted his leadership philosophy clashed with the Pentagon's direction for Stars and Stripes. Urban, with a solid background in public affairs, has pledged to maintain editorial independence while modernizing the paper's digital reach to better serve service members. Earlier in April, the Pentagon also dismissed ombudsman Jacqueline Smith, who was tasked with protecting editorial independence, as part of a broader effort to ensure accountability and discipline.