Marine Corps Relieves Entire Command of Hawaii Osprey Squadron Amidst "Loss of Trust" Concerns
In a rare and significant move, the entire top leadership of a Hawaii-based Osprey squadron has been relieved of duty, a decision stemming from a "loss of trust" in their ability to uphold critical safety and readiness standards. Major General Marcus Annibale initiated the decisive action on October 28, removing the commander, executive officer, and senior enlisted leader of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 268 (VMM-268), stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay.
The relieved officers include the squadron's commander, Lieutenant Colonel Shaina Hennessey, and Sergeant Major Jamie Lampley, the senior enlisted leader. The identity of the executive officer was not disclosed in the official statement. This sweeping change at the highest levels of the squadron underscores the Marine Corps' unwavering commitment to maintaining stringent operational integrity and accountability.
"We hold ourselves to the highest standards of performance, addressing challenges head-on to uphold operational excellence," stated Major Joseph Butterfield, spokesman for the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing. "We are committed to implementing best practices and policies that ensure a strong coupling of well-prepared pilots and crews with safe, mission-ready aircraft." The phrase "loss of trust" in military parlance often indicates a serious breakdown in confidence regarding leadership's judgment, oversight, or adherence to established protocols, particularly in areas as critical as safety and combat readiness. While no further specific details regarding the grounds for the relief were provided by the Marine Corps, such an action typically follows an internal review or investigation into squadron operations.
VMM-268 operates the MV-22 Osprey, a tiltrotor aircraft known for its unique ability to take off and land like a helicopter and fly like a conventional airplane. These complex aircraft require rigorous maintenance, highly skilled pilots, and meticulous operational oversight to ensure both safety and mission effectiveness. The Marine Corps places paramount importance on the readiness of its air assets, particularly those involved in expeditionary operations across the Pacific.
Lieutenant Colonel Hennessey assumed command of VMM-268 in December, according to her archived official biography. Commissioned as a Marine officer in 2007, she became a naval aviator in 2011, having served with distinction. Her decorated career includes honors such as the Air Medal Strike/Flight numeral 1, the Meritorious Service Medal with a gold star in lieu of a second award, and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with a gold star in lieu of a second award.
Sergeant Major Lampley had served as the squadron’s senior enlisted leader since February 2024. He enlisted in the Marine Corps in 2000, bringing over two decades of experience to the unit. His personal decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal, the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with one gold star in lieu of a second award, and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with three gold stars in lieu of a fourth award.
In the wake of the command shake-up, Lieutenant Colonel John Campbell has been appointed to lead the squadron, with Sergeant Major Joshua Henderson stepping in as the unit’s new senior enlisted leader. These immediate appointments highlight the Marine Corps' emphasis on seamless transitions and continuity of command, ensuring that the squadron can quickly regain full operational stride under new leadership. This swift and decisive action serves as a strong signal across the force about the gravity of upholding the highest standards of performance and accountability within the United States Marine Corps.
