From Air Force Leader to Trump’s Joint Chiefs Chairman: The Story of Lt. Gen. Dan Caine

Caine, a retired Air Force general, was recently named the next chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff by President Donald Trump. He takes over following the unexpected firing of Gen. Charles Q. Brown. Caine is known as a skilled F-16 pilot and is highly regarded by his peers for his strong ethics and professionalism.

John Dan “Razin” Caine first caught Trump’s attention in 2018 for his role in combating ISIS. His career includes extensive work in special operations and intelligence, often working behind the scenes due to the secretive nature of his assignments. His colleagues describe him as humble and apolitical, with no political bias.

After retiring in December as a three-star lieutenant general, Caine found himself at the center of political debate with Trump’s announcement. It’s uncommon for a retired general to return to active duty, yet it has happened before, like Army Gen. Peter Schoomaker in 2003.

Elevating Caine to chairman while he holds three stars is also unusual. Typically, generals are promoted to four stars after leading a combat command or serving as a service chief. However, Caine is no stranger to unexpected leadership roles. On 9/11, he was mission commander at Andrews Air Force Base, ready to defend the capital.

Caine enjoyed a successful career that started when he commissioned through the Virginia Military Institute in 1990. His father was also a fighter pilot, which prompted Caine to call it “the family business.” He logged over 150 combat hours and rose through the ranks, including opportunities as a venture capitalist and entrepreneur.

His military accolades include the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Defense Superior Service Medal. Caine attributes his entry into the Special Operations Forces to building relationships while deploying alongside them.

Caine’s career journey is notable; he served as the associate director for military affairs at the CIA, where he felt honored to work. He described working at the agency as a unique privilege, emphasizing the professionalism of his colleagues.

Retired Gen. Frank McKenzie, who worked alongside Caine, praised his exceptional talent and strong moral principles. Although Caine rarely discusses politics, he recently expressed concerns about the Pentagon’s procurement processes, highlighting the importance of keeping up with new technologies.

As he steps into this new role, Caine’s focus will likely remain on ensuring that military personnel have the necessary tools and capabilities they need to succeed.