Hegseth orders Pentagon to review military standards

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has initiated a comprehensive review of military fitness and grooming standards in an effort to bolster America’s armed forces and project strength on the global stage. The Trump administration has been quick to reverse policies that critics argue have weakened the perception of the U.S. military’s readiness.

In a memo addressed to senior Pentagon leadership, Hegseth directed Darin Selnick, the under secretary of defense for personnel and readiness, to compile existing standards across all branches of the military related to physical fitness, body composition, and grooming, including regulations on facial hair. The goal of this review is to assess how these standards have evolved since January 1, 2015, and determine the impact of any changes on the readiness and effectiveness of the military.

“We must remain vigilant in maintaining the standards that enable the men and women of our military to protect the American people and our homeland as the world’s most lethal and effective fighting force,” Hegseth emphasized in a statement. “Our adversaries are not growing weaker, and our tasks are not growing less challenging.”

Hegseth has made it clear that he intends to uphold rigorous standards and reverse any policies deemed too lenient or “woke” that do not align with the goal of rebuilding the military’s warrior ethos and restoring deterrence. He emphasized the importance of unity and a shared purpose among service members, stating that “our standards will be high, uncompromising, and clear.”

The review will shed light on the trajectory of standards in recent years and provide insights into the evolution of these criteria. By ensuring that the military maintains high standards of fitness and grooming, Hegseth aims to reinforce the image of the U.S. armed forces as a formidable and capable fighting force.

It is evident that the Trump administration is committed to strengthening the military and ensuring that it remains a dominant force in the face of growing global challenges. Hegseth’s focus on revitalizing military standards underscores the administration’s dedication to enhancing the readiness and effectiveness of America’s armed forces.