At the Marine Corps Base Quantico in Virginia, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth addressed military officers and leaders. He spoke about what he described as a cultural shift in the military under the Trump administration.
Hegseth emphasized a focus on traditional military values. He announced a reduction in the flag-officer corps by 10%, with an aim to reach 20%. This approach has received bipartisan criticism. Several notable dismissals, including Black and female officers with strong service records, have sparked concern.
“Throughout his tenure, Secretary Hegseth has taken countless reckless, partisan actions that have damaged our military,” said Sen. Jack Reed, the ranking member of the Senate Armed Services Committee.
Hegseth defended his policies during the speech. He claimed increased retention and recruitment, particularly among women and minorities. He described the force as “color-blind” and merit-based.
He criticized media reports on military morale and munitions shortages. Hegseth labeled such reporting as “partisan activism” and “anti-American.”
Despite the ongoing conflict with Iran, the Pentagon has avoided news briefings since May. This mirrors a previous event where Hegseth gave a partisan address to military leaders.
In his address, he discussed advancements in autonomous weapons and pledged to enhance domestic production of military supplies. Hegseth also announced the end of civilian tenured positions at U.S. military academies, aiming for a focus on “lethality and readiness.” He criticized elite academic institutions as anti-American and named five colleges that will partner with the Pentagon to prepare officer candidates.
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