Marine Corps Fires MCAS Beaufort Commander Following Loss of Confidence

April 20, 2025

The U.S. Marine Corps removed the commanding officer of Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort on Tuesday. The sudden dismissal of Col. Mark D. Bortnem marked a surprising end to a decades-long military career.

A Marine Corps spokesperson confirmed the decision late Tuesday. The reason? A “loss of trust and confidence” in Bortnem’s ability to lead. That phrase, often used by the military, offers little detail but signals serious concern.

Brig. Gen. Ralph J. Rizzo Jr., the commanding general of Marine Corps Installations East, relieved Bortnem effective immediately. The move came nearly two years into Bortnem’s command of MCAS Beaufort in South Carolina. That term was likely nearing its scheduled end, but the early relief suggests urgency.

Lt. Col. Michael R. Eubanks, executive officer of the air station’s headquarters squadron, has stepped in as acting commander. The Marine Corps has not yet named a permanent replacement.

https://worldinsight.info/marine-corps-fires-mcas-beaufort-commander-following-loss-of-confidence