Wed Mar 05 15:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Defense Logistics Agency Begins Layoffs of Newly Hired Civilians

**Richmond, VA –** The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) has begun laying off civilian employees hired or promoted within the past one to two years, confirming reports of a broader Pentagon workforce reduction effort. The layoffs, which began Monday, March 4th, affect probationary employees and are part of a larger plan to reduce the Pentagon’s civilian workforce by 5 to 8 percent, a total of approximately 50,000 to 60,000 employees.

The DLA announced the terminations in an internal message, stating that leadership carefully reviewed affected personnel to ensure mission continuity. Affected employees received resources to aid their transition. The agency stressed their commitment to supporting the remaining workforce, while clarifying that they await further guidance from the Department of Defense regarding subsequent personnel actions.

One DLA employee, speaking anonymously, described being fired abruptly on Monday afternoon, given only 15 minutes to gather belongings before being escorted from the building. This employee emphasized their strong performance record, highlighting awards received and high performance reviews, stating the termination was not performance-based.

This action follows an announcement by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth in February, outlining plans to dismiss approximately 5,400 probationary employees as an initial step. Although this plan faced legal challenges and temporary delays due to a court ruling deeming the initial Office of Personnel Management (OPM) order unlawful, the dismissals ultimately proceeded.

The DLA confirmed that the layoffs align with the Department of Defense’s broader strategy to optimize resource allocation. Further actions are anticipated, including a hiring freeze and a review of underperforming employees. The ongoing reductions are part of a wider effort by the Trump administration to significantly decrease the federal workforce. The total number of federal employees dismissed during the second Trump administration now exceeds 25,000, according to GovExec.

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