The United States Naval Academy has abruptly removed Captain Gilbert E. Clark Jr. from his post as Commandant of Midshipmen, less than six months after he assumed the role.
Superintendent Lieutenant General Michael Borgschulte concluded that he no longer trusted Clark to lead the Brigade of Midshipmen, prompting the dismissal on 24 November 2025.
This marks the Academy’s third major leadership change in under half a year.
Alcohol-Related Concerns and Leadership Doubts
While the Navy did not cite misconduct, official statements referenced a “loss of confidence” in Clark’s leadership—a standard phrase in such circumstances.
Several midshipmen privately reported multiple alcohol-related incidents involving Clark, raising questions about his decision-making during his brief tenure.
Clark, who became the 91st Commandant in June 2025, was responsible for overseeing the professional development, military training, and daily conduct of roughly 4,400 midshipmen.
Turbulent Semester and Public Scrutiny
His removal followed a challenging fall semester.
One notable incident in September involved a false active-shooter alert on campus, which tragically led to a midshipman being shot by naval security forces.
Clark sent a campus-wide email during the crisis that circulated widely.
While the Navy did not directly link this event to his dismissal, it highlighted the pressure and scrutiny he faced as a leader.
Distinguished Naval Career
Before becoming Commandant, Clark built a long and decorated naval career.
A 1998 US Naval Academy graduate and former water polo player, he qualified as a surface warfare officer and served aboard ships including the USS Denver, USS George Washington, and USS Klakring.
He later commanded the destroyer DDG-68 The Sullivans, taking part in operations in Iraq, Syria, and Libya.
Clark’s shore assignments included strategic planning roles at NAVCENT and CENTCOM, staff positions within Navy leadership, and command of an afloat training group in the Western Pacific.
Immediately prior to his Commandant role, he led the Navy’s “Southwest” surface group.
Historical Context: Rare Leadership Changes
Senior leadership changes at the Naval Academy are rare.
The last removal occurred in 2003, when Superintendent Rear Admiral Richard Naughton was relieved following a misconduct investigation.
Clark’s dismissal, coming so early into his tenure, underscores the Academy’s high standards for leadership and accountability.
Next Steps at the Academy
With Clark’s removal, the Academy now faces a leadership transition in the midst of ongoing training and development for its midshipmen.
Details on his successor have not yet been announced, but the focus will be on maintaining stability for the Brigade of Midshipmen and ensuring continuity in day-to-day operations.
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