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July 23, 2026
Navy Expands Restrictions on Release of Sailors' Service Histories
- The Navy will no longer disclose any sailor's service history, a significant change from previous policy allowing such information.
- Details like units assigned and awards earned will only be released if deemed of 'high public interest,' limiting transparency.
- This policy shift is part of broader restrictions on media access initiated by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, raising concerns among transparency advocates.
- Critics argue that the new rules hinder reporting on service members and could suppress important information regarding military conduct.
2 Sources
- Navy says it will no longer release sailors' service historyJul 23, 2026 at 6:28 AM · ABC News
- Navy withholding sailors' service history, in another curb on Pentagon press accessJul 23, 2026 at 11:57 AM · CBS News