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New Command at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort

View of Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort with aircraft

News Summary

Col. Trevor Felter has taken command of Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort following the sudden dismissal of Col. Mark Bortnem due to a loss of confidence in his leadership. Bortnem, who led the station since July 2023, was reassigned amid a petition supporting his command. Felter brings extensive experience and commitment to his new role, while Lt. Col. Michael R. Eubanks serves as interim commander. The community remains hopeful for stability and positive advancements with Felter’s leadership.

Beaufort, South Carolina

Col. Trevor Felter has assumed command of Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, following the unexpected ouster of Col. Mark Bortnem. Felter’s appointment took effect on April 29, 2025, just fifteen days after Bortnem was relieved of his duties due to a reported “loss of trust and confidence” in his leadership, as stated by Brig. Gen. Ralph J. Rizzo Jr..

Bortnem, who had commanded the station since July 2023, was dismissed on April 14, 2025. The Marine Corps has not disclosed any specific details regarding the circumstances leading to Bortnem’s termination, nor whether it is linked to any potential misconduct or a criminal investigation.

In the wake of Bortnem’s dismissal, he has been reassigned to the Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island. His command tenure was marked by commendable community engagement and initiatives centered around environmental conservation. Local leaders, including members of the Beaufort County Council, expressed surprise at his firing, highlighting the positive impact he had during his command.

In response to Bortnem’s removal, a petition initiated on Change.org by Marine veteran Joan Petrucci has garnered nearly 360 signatures, rallying support from those who appreciated Bortnem’s efforts as the commander.

As for Col. Trevor Felter, he has a lengthy history with the Marine Corps, having enlisted in 1994 and completing his recruit training at Parris Island. He is a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in general engineering. Felter underwent flight training in Pensacola, Florida and was selected to operate the McDonnell Douglas AV-8B jet, known for its complexity and high accident rate in comparison to other military aircraft.

Prior to his new appointment, Felter accumulated diverse experiences through various deployments and roles across the globe, showcasing a commitment to both operational effectiveness and leadership within the Corps.

Currently, Lt. Col. Michael R. Eubanks, who serves as the headquarters squadron executive officer at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, is stepping in as the interim commander until a permanent leader is officially appointed. The leadership transition comes at a time when both the station and the community are focusing on stability and continuity amidst the recent changes in command.

As the community awaits further clarity regarding the reasons behind Bortnem’s dismissal and the direction Felter aims to take, the military presence and impact in the Beaufort area remain significant. Local residents and stakeholders are hopeful for positive advancements under new leadership.

Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort continues to play an essential role in military operations and community engagement, and the move towards new leadership is seen as a pivotal moment for both the base and its relationships with the surrounding community.

The weather in Beaufort was a mix of sun and clouds on the day of Felter’s appointment, with a high of around 80°F and SSW winds between 10 to 20 mph.