Space Force Commander Removed After Criticizing VP Vance’s Greenland Comments

Col. Susan Meyers, commander of the 821st Space Base Group at Pituffik Space Base in Greenland, has been removed from her position following the transmission of a message to personnel that distanced the installation from comments made by Vice President JD Vance during his visit.

The Space Force revealed its decision shortly after Military.com released the details of the email from March 31.

Meyers stated that Vance’s critiques of Danish governance and investment in Greenland "do not represent" the perspectives of the base and highlighted the importance of unity among U.S. and allied personnel. "I promise that, for as long as I have the privilege to lead this base, all of our flags will fly proudly- united," her message stated.

Col. Kenneth Klock, commander of Space Base Delta 1, officially dismissed Meyers from her leadership position on Thursday, citing a "loss of confidence in her ability to lead." A spokesperson for Space Force later confirmed that she continues to serve in the military and has been reassigned to a different role within Space Operations Command.

The Pentagon underscored the importance of commanders maintaining a nonpartisan stance. Political backlash from GOP lawmakers came swiftly, with Sen. Eric Schmitt (R-MO) demanding an investigation and Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell stating that any efforts “to undermine President Trump’s agenda will not be tolerated.”

Vice President Vance’s visit on March 28 aimed to address Danish oversight of Greenland while advocating for enhanced U.S. strategic interests in the Arctic. His comments raised alarms among U.S. military personnel, leading to Meyers’ internal reaction, ultimately resulting in her losing the command.

The Pentagon has yet to confirm if additional disciplinary measures are under consideration.