Pentagon Dismisses Publisher and Editor of Stars and Stripes

The Pentagon dismissed the publisher and editor of the military news outlet Stars and Stripes on August 21, 2026, citing 'insubordination.' Publisher Max Lederer and Editor-in-Chief Erik Slavin received separation notices that allow for a five-day appeal. Reporter Lara Korte also announced her dismissal. Slavin attributed the firings to comments made during a CBS Sunday Morning interview regarding censorship of military news. He emphasized the importance of editorial independence for Stars and Stripes, which is mandated by Congress. Lederer had previously indicated his intention to resign due to fundamental disagreements with the Pentagon's plans for the outlet. The Pentagon has stated its commitment to modernizing Stars and Stripes, with a focus on adapting its content for a new generation of service members. The Department of Defense confirmed the validity of the separation notices but declined to comment further.