Colonel Fired After Email Disavowing Vice President’s Comments on Greenland

Pituffik, Greenland — Colonel Susan Meyers, commander of the 821st Space Base Group, was removed from her position on April 10, 2025, following an email she sent distancing herself from Vice President JD Vance‘s remarks about Denmark‘s oversight of Greenland during Vance’s visit to the base on March 28.

The dismissal comes amid heightened tensions surrounding the geopolitical significance of Greenland, a semi-autonomous territory of Denmark, and the U.S. administration’s interest in the region. In an email dated March 31, Meyers expressed her concerns regarding the impact of Vance’s comments on the morale of the troops and staff from various nations working at the base.

Meyers addressed all personnel, stating, “I do not presume to understand current politics, but what I do know is the concerns of the U.S. administration discussed by Vice President Vance on Friday are not reflective of Pituffik Space Base.” This communication was confirmed as accurate by sources familiar with the matter.

Vance’s statements at the base criticized Denmark’s handling of security in Greenland, claiming that “you have not done a good job by the people of Greenland” and urging for more U.S. involvement in the territory. He emphasized the perceived threats from China and Russia, stating, “Denmark has not kept pace in devoting the resources necessary to keep this base… and to keep the people of Greenland safe.”

Despite Vance’s assertive rhetoric, which coincided with President Trump’s previous threats regarding U.S. interest in Greenland, Meyers sought to reassure her personnel of their unity, stating, “for as long as I am lucky enough to lead this base, all of our flags will fly proudly—together.”

However, her email was seen as a deviation from the administration’s narrative, prompting Colonel Kenneth Klock to announce her removal for “loss of confidence in her ability to lead.” Sean Parnell, the Chief Pentagon spokesperson, reiterated that “actions to undermine the chain of command or to subvert President Trump’s agenda will not be tolerated at the Department of Defense.”

In response to Vance’s comments, Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen publicly criticized the tone of the remarks, stating that this is “not how you speak to your close allies.” He acknowledged the need for a U.S. military presence in Greenland but expressed disappointment over the manner in which Vance addressed the issue.

Polls indicate that 85% of Greenlanders do not support joining the U.S., a sentiment that may complicate the administration’s ambitions. The geopolitical stakes for Greenland revolve around its strategic resources and location, making it a focal point in U.S. national security discussions.

Colonel Shawn Lee will succeed Meyers as the new commander of Pituffik Space Base, further reflecting the ongoing shifts within military leadership that align more closely with the current administration’s policies.