The U.S. Navy has relieved the commanding officer of Navy Reserve Center (NRC) Manchester, New Hampshire, citing a “loss of confidence in his ability to command”, according to an official release issued 2 May 2025.
Cmdr. Joseph Dearing was removed from his post by Capt. Christian Parilla, Commander of Navy Reserve Region Readiness and Mobilization Command (REDCOM) Norfolk. Dearing had held the position since September 2024.
In a statement, the U.S. Navy claimed that it “maintains the highest standards for leaders and holds them accountable when those standards are not met.” No further details were provided regarding the specific circumstances leading to Dearing’s dismissal.
Cmdr. Christopher Worthy has been temporarily appointed to lead NRC Manchester while a permanent replacement is determined. The reserve centre is responsible for providing critical administrative support to attached units, including personnel and pay services.
Cmdr. Dearing has been temporarily reassigned to REDCOM Norfolk.
In recent months, the U.S. Navy has witnessed a series of high-profile leadership changes, reflecting both internal accountability measures and broader political shifts. Notably, Vice Adm. Shoshana Chatfield, the U.S. military representative to NATO and former president of the Naval War College, was relieved of her duties in April 2025. While the official reason cited was a “loss of confidence,” reports suggest her dismissal was influenced by her support for diversity initiatives, aligning with the Trump administration’s efforts to curtail such programs within the military .
This move is part of a broader pattern under Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who has mandated a 20% reduction in four-star general positions and a 10% cut across all general and flag officer ranks. These actions have led to the removal of several top military officials, including Adm. Lisa Franchetti, the Navy’s top officer, and Gen. CQ Brown Jr., Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Critics argue that these purges risk politicizing the military and undermining its apolitical nature .
Beyond the upper echelons, the Navy has also relieved several commanders at various levels. In April 2025, Cmdr. Brett Robblee and Command Master Chief Felix Phillips were removed from their positions at Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron 4 due to a loss of confidence in their leadership abilities .
Similarly, Cmdr. Joseph Dearing was relieved as commanding officer of the Navy Reserve Center in Manchester, New Hampshire, earlier this month . These actions underscore the Navy’s commitment to maintaining high standards of leadership and accountability across all levels.
Just as in the 1930s in a certain European country, you get rid of those who offer any resistance or dare to ask awkward questions. We are witnessing the demise of the unwilling, and in the coming months, it will increase. US universities are receiving the same treatment from the Oval Office.
Dramatic much? Getting the CO canned is US Navy tradition. Would have happened to JFK if he weren’t so connected.
” Loss of confidence in ability to command…”
This coming from a multiple draft dodger and convicted felon and his drunkard, unfit for office, classified information sharing defence secretary.
Which unlucky fellow did the wheel of fortune land on this week?
It is not meant to be read as dramatic; it is just a cautionary note. Keep watching!
Not everything is related to the current political climate in the U.S. The Navy has a quick hook. perhaps too quick, removing officers from command even for subordinates actions the commander was unaware of. Probably not the best way to run a Navy, but it’s been this way since the early 2000’s.