In a significant development within the U.S. military, the top enlisted advisor to the Joint Chiefs is set to retire soon, according to Pentagon sources. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Troy Black will conclude his service as the senior enlisted advisor, a position he has held since 2023, as per officials speaking to Military.com.
The decision was made by the newly confirmed Joint Chiefs chairman, Air Force Gen. Dan Caine, who opted not to extend Black’s term for another two years. Despite this decision, a defense official emphasized that it was not a dismissal and that Gen. Caine holds “the greatest respect and admiration for SEAC Black.”
Gen. Caine’s choice not to renew Black’s tenure marks a notable decision early in his role as chairman. Appointed by President Donald Trump, Caine’s selection was unconventional, given his retirement status and lack of typical qualifications for the position. Learn more about Caine’s appointment here.
Black’s appointment to the senior enlisted advisor role followed his tenure as Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps. Army Gen. Mark Milley, then-chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, appointed Black, highlighting his extensive experience and service. Black succeeded Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Ramón “CZ” Colón-López, who served as SEAC for four years.
The SEAC position is traditionally a two-year term with an option for a two-year extension, a choice Gen. Caine did not pursue. This decision diverged from the expectations of Black, who had outlined a “four-year plan” on his official website, anticipating a longer tenure.
Since its inception in 2005, Black is the fifth individual to hold the SEAC role. Three of his predecessors served four-year terms, while the initial holder of the post served three years. During Adm. Mike Mullen’s tenure as Joint Chiefs chairman, the position remained vacant from 2008 to 2011.
Despite its critical role, the SEAC position remains relatively obscure compared to other high-profile military roles. Black’s focus included enhancing fitness and leadership management within the military, a continuation of his efforts during his time with the Marine Corps. At Joint Base Andrews, Black emphasized a comprehensive approach to fitness: “A holistic human performance system is being developed right now in order to make sure that we talk about our mental, physical, behavioral, spiritual and emotional or social fitness,” he stated.
Black’s early career as a machine gunner and his battlefield achievements gained attention, but he consistently advocated for improving Marines’ quality of life. He frequently engaged with the press and Congress on policy changes aimed at alleviating challenges faced by service members. His wife, a retired first sergeant, provided insights into the military lifestyle’s challenges, which informed Black’s approach.
The Pentagon official anticipates Black’s retirement from military service to occur by summer or early fall.
— Steve Beynon contributed to this report.
