Pete Hegseth Criticizes ‘Fat’ Generals; Trump Calls for Military Fitness

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has ordered a sweeping reform of military appearance and fitness rules. He delivered this directive during a rare address to top commanders at Marine Corps Base Quantico. The new agenda targets what he described as decades of decay within the armed forces.

He specifically criticized overweight generals and admirals, calling their look “completely unacceptable.” According to Reuters, the defense secretary stated that a lack of discipline has weakened the military’s professionalism.

New Era of Military Appearance and Discipline

Secretary Hegseth’s speech outlined immediate and significant changes. He announced that all physical fitness tests would now be set to male benchmarks only. He also declared an end to what he called the “era of unprofessional appearance.”

This includes a strict ban on beards. He told the silent audience that anyone uncomfortable with his new agenda should resign honorably. Hegseth defended recent high-profile firings of senior officers as necessary to fix a broken culture.

He linked diversity initiatives to the military’s perceived decay. The new policy also overhauls how discrimination complaints are investigated. Hegseth argued current rules have senior leaders “walking on egg shells.”

Trump Backs Fitness Focus for a Stronger Military

President Donald Trump later addressed the same gathering. He strongly endorsed the new focus on physical conditioning and ability. He promised a return to core principles of strength and character.

Trump stated the administration would not be “politically correct” in its mission to defend American freedom. This stance aligns with his broader crackdown on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies across federal institutions.

His support signals a unified front between the White House and the Pentagon on this issue. The changes are expected to reshape military culture and personnel standards for years to come.

The new military fitness standards represent a fundamental shift in Pentagon policy, prioritizing physical readiness above all else.

Info at your fingertips

What specific changes did Hegseth announce?

He mandated all fitness tests use male benchmarks. He also banned beards and criticized overweight personnel, calling for a return to a professional military appearance.

When did this announcement take place?

The address was delivered on Tuesday at Marine Corps Base Quantico. Top generals and admirals were summoned from around the world for the event.

How did President Trump respond to the new policy?

Trump fully supported the initiative. He stated his administration is bringing back a focus on fitness, ability, and strength for a revamped US military.

What was the reason given for the recent firings of top officers?

Hegseth defended the firings by stating the officers were part of a broken culture. He linked this to broader diversity initiatives he believes have led to decay.

How will discrimination complaints be handled now?

The defense secretary promised sweeping changes to how accusations of wrongdoing are investigated. The goal is to stop leaders from “walking on egg shells.”

Trusted Sources:
Reuters