Richmond, Va. — The ripple effects of budget cuts and staff reductions are being felt across the nation, including here in Central Virginia, where the recent firing of a park ranger at the Richmond National Battlefield Park has drawn attention to the challenges faced by federal employees.
As of February 24, more than 200,000 federal workers across various agencies have had their roles eliminated due to ongoing budgetary constraints. Among those affected is Avery Lentz, a former park ranger at the Richmond National Battlefield Park and Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site, who was fired unexpectedly on February 14.
Lentz, who had spent years working with the National Park Service, was let go via an email from the U.S. Department of the Interior. The termination letter stated that he “failed to demonstrate fitness or qualifications for continued employment” and that his “abilities do not meet the department’s current needs.” Despite the letter’s explanation, Lentz maintains that his performance was not the issue; rather, the decision was part of broader organizational restructuring beyond his control.
“It wasn’t my performance that cost me my job,” Lentz said. “It was the powers that be and things out of my control. I think that makes it even harder.”
Lentz’s dismissal is part of a larger wave of job cuts, particularly affecting those in probationary positions. He and two other park rangers, all of whom began their roles in April 2024, found themselves vulnerable to termination because of their short tenure. Federal employees in probationary status are at a higher risk of being let go with minimal justification.
In January, Lentz recalled that the United States Office of Personnel Management (OPM) had requested a list of all probationary employees without providing an explanation for the inquiry. This request raised concerns among staff, who feared the worst. Weeks later, Lentz received the email that would end his career as a park ranger.
“It was just very… unorthodox, is the best word to describe it,” Lentz said. “No one is safe.”
While the loss of his job has been devastating, Lentz has found comfort in the overwhelming support he has received from his former colleagues, family, and friends. Many have offered him temporary housing and emotional support during this uncertain time.
“The amount of support that we’ve gotten has been a positive,” Lentz said. “It’s just heartbreaking, though, because it’s still tragic for the others who were let go as well.”
Despite the support, Lentz faces significant challenges moving forward. After being denied unemployment benefits—along with another former co-worker—he is struggling to figure out his next steps. He is currently applying for new positions, but the uncertainty of his situation is compounded by financial stress. Moving is not an option, as he has built a life in Central Virginia and finds it too costly to relocate.
“I don’t want to move. I’ve built a life here. But it’s getting harder,” Lentz explained.
Lentz’s firing is a stark reminder of the human cost of federal budget cuts, particularly those that affect workers in vulnerable positions. As the government continues to make difficult financial decisions, the impact on employees, their families, and their communities remains profound. Lentz’s experience underscores the precarious nature of federal employment in an era of shrinking budgets and restructuring.
