News Summary

Col. Mark D. Bortnem has been relieved of his duties as commanding officer of Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort on April 14, 2025, due to a reported ‘loss of trust and confidence.’ Brig. Gen. Ralph J. Rizzo, Jr. confirmed the decision, and Lt. Col. Michael R. Eubanks will serve as acting commander. Bortnem, a seasoned F/A-18 pilot, had been in command since July 2023 and was involved in various community initiatives that are now highlighted following his dismissal.

Beaufort: Col. Mark Bortnem Relieved of Command at MCAS

Col. Mark D. Bortnem was relieved of his duties as commanding officer of Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort on April 14, 2025. The decision stems from a reported “loss of trust and confidence” in his command capabilities.

Brig. Gen. Ralph J. Rizzo, Jr. confirmed the decision, stating that Bortnem has been reassigned to positions at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island. In the meantime, Lt. Col. Michael R. Eubanks will serve as acting commander until a permanent successor is appointed.

Background on Col. Bortnem

Bortnem had been leading MCAS Beaufort since July 14, 2023. He is a seasoned F/A-18 pilot with nearly 3,000 flight hours and over 500 hours of combat experience. Previously, he held the position of director for the Commandant of the Marine Corps Safety Division.

• Joined the Marine Corps in 1991.
• Commissioned as an officer after attending Ohio State University in 1998.
• Served in various roles including naval flight officer and commanding officer of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 332, with multiple deployments to Iraq.

Community Response

Bortnem’s relief has shocked local friends and community members, many of whom have highlighted his contributions to local conservation efforts. Following his dismissal, a petition initiated by Marine veteran Joan Petrucci has collected nearly 300 signatures in support of Bortnem, reflecting the community’s sense of loss.

On April 10, 2025, just days before his dismissal, Bortnem participated in a media event on the flight line at MCAS Beaufort, discussing preparations for an upcoming air show.

Ongoing Discussions

The specifics regarding the reasons for Bortnem’s firing remain undisclosed, leading to conversations about the implications of the military phrase “loss of trust and confidence.” Such terms can often be linked to various leadership challenges or misconduct.

Bortnem’s involvement with local land conservation initiatives and his efforts to strengthen ties between the military and civilian communities are acknowledged as significant contributions during his tenure.

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Additional Resources

• Post and Courier: Beaufort SC Air Station Bortnem Firing
• Wikipedia: Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort
• Marine Corps Times: Marine Corps Relieves Air Station Beaufort Commander
• Google Search: Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort
• Your Island News: Bortnem Relieved of Command at MCAS Beaufort
• Encyclopedia Britannica: United States Marine Corps
• Stars and Stripes: Marine Corps Commander Fired
• Google News: Bortnem relieved of command
• Island Packet: Bortnem’s Relief of Command
• WTOC: MCAS Beaufort Commanding Officer Formally Relieved