A major shake-up at the Pentagon unfolded Tuesday when Dan Caldwell, a senior adviser to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, was escorted out of the building.
This move follows an ongoing investigation into unauthorized leaks within the department.
Caldwell Suspended Over Unauthorized Disclosure
Caldwell was placed on administrative leave after being linked to an alleged leak.
An official confirmed to Reuters that the leave was prompted by an “unauthorized disclosure,” though specifics about the nature of the leak remain unclear.
The investigation is still ongoing, but details about whether the information was shared with a journalist or another party have not been provided.
This situation comes just weeks after a memo was issued by Hegseth’s chief of staff, Joe Kasper, on March 21.
Kasper had requested the Pentagon to look into “recent unauthorized disclosures” of sensitive national security information.
Leaked Text Chain Raises Questions
Although Caldwell may not be a household name like some senior Pentagon officials, his role has been crucial, especially in his advisory position to Hegseth.
His importance was highlighted last month when a leaked text chain revealed by The Atlantic showed Hegseth naming Caldwell as the go-to contact for the National Security Council, particularly as they prepared for military strikes in Yemen.
A Background in Defense and National Security
Caldwell brings a wealth of experience to his role, having served in the Marine Corps before transitioning into the civilian defense world.
He was part of the transition team at the Pentagon and took a leading role in staffing decisions within the Department of Defense.
Before his time with Hegseth, Caldwell worked for Concerned Veterans for America, an organization with strong ties to Republican lawmakers and a history of cooperation with former President Donald Trump.
In his military career, Caldwell served in the Marine Corps Presidential Support Program, providing security at Camp David.
He also deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, with operational experience in key provinces like Al Anbar and Ninawa.
Following his service, Caldwell worked for Rep. David Schweikert, a Republican congressman from Arizona, focusing on veterans’ and defense issues.