Paraguay’s President Santiago Peña bestows the Order of Merit “Gral Div Bernardino Caballero” at the “Gran Cross” level to Navy Admiral Alvin Holsey, head of U.S. Southern Command, during a ceremony at the Government Palace in Asuncion, Paraguay, on August 23, 2025.
Jorge Saenz/AP
WASHINGTON – Admiral Alvin Holsey, the Navy officer responsible for directing U.S. military operations in the Caribbean and South American maritime regions, announced his retirement effective this December, as confirmed by both himself and the Defense Secretary on Thursday.
Holsey assumed command of U.S. Southern Command last November, a role that typically spans three to four years, overseeing a vast area including the Caribbean Sea and adjacent South American waters.
This announcement arrives shortly after the U.S. military conducted its fifth lethal strike in the Caribbean targeting a small vessel suspected of drug trafficking. The previous administration classified these drug traffickers as unlawful combatants, justifying the use of military force against them.
Concerns have been mounting on Capitol Hill regarding these strikes. Some Republican lawmakers have requested further clarification from the White House about the legal grounds and operational specifics, while Democrats argue that these actions may breach both U.S. and international legal standards.
In a message shared on Southern Command’s official Facebook page, Admiral Holsey expressed his gratitude, stating, “Serving our nation, the American people, and upholding our Constitution for over 37 years has been a profound honor.”
He added, “The SOUTHCOM team has made enduring contributions to national defense and will persist in their vital mission. I am confident they will continue to advance, strengthening our country’s role as a global symbol of liberty.”
No additional details were provided by U.S. Southern Command beyond Admiral Holsey’s statement.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth took to X on Thursday afternoon to commend Holsey’s extensive service, writing, “Admiral Holsey has shown steadfast dedication to our mission, our people, and our nation. We wish him and his family continued success and happiness in the years to come.”
Pentagon officials declined to offer further comments, directing inquiries to Secretary Hegseth’s social media post.
The New York Times was the first to report on Admiral Holsey’s forthcoming departure from his post.
