John Phelan has resigned from his position as US Navy Secretary, with the Pentagon announcing his departure as effective immediately. Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell expressed gratitude for Phelan's service, but did not provide a specific reason for the resignation. Reports indicate that Phelan may have been removed from his post, coinciding with other recent military leadership changes, including the dismissal of Army chief Gen. Randy George. Phelan's resignation came just a day after he addressed a Navy conference in Washington, where he discussed his plans for the Navy, making the timing of his exit particularly surprising. Following Phelan's departure, Hung Cao, who previously served as Undersecretary, has been appointed as the Acting Secretary of the Navy. Cao, a Vietnamese refugee who arrived in the US in 1975, has a distinguished military background, including service in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Somalia, as well as experience managing significant budgets at the Pentagon. Phelan, nominated by former President Donald Trump in late 2024, lacked military experience prior to his appointment and was known for his ties to Trump's campaign. His sudden exit has raised questions regarding the stability and leadership dynamics within the US defense system.