Hegseth orders Pentagon to adopt same standards for men, women
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth made a significant announcement on Sunday, signing a memo that orders the military to adopt the same standards for both men and women serving in combat roles. Hegseth emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards for all individuals in combat arms MOS’s and jobs, regardless of gender. He highlighted the need to ensure that all service members have the best possible leaders and the highest standards based on capabilities rather than gender.
In a video filmed upon his return from Japan, Hegseth voiced his concern that military standards had slipped under the previous administration. He stated, “For far too long, we allowed standards to slip, and different standards for men and women in combat arms MOS’s and jobs. That’s not acceptable.” Hegseth further emphasized the importance of having unified standards for all service members in combat roles to uphold the integrity and effectiveness of the military.
This memo comes after Hegseth initiated a review of military fitness and grooming standards earlier in the month. He has committed to reinstating tougher standards while eliminating “woke” policies that do not align with the core values of the military. In a memo to service members on Jan. 25, Hegseth reiterated the importance of maintaining high and uncompromising standards to strengthen the unity and shared purpose of the military.
During his trip to Japan, Hegseth announced plans to enhance the U.S. military command in the country as part of efforts to combat Chinese aggression. He described Japan as an indispensable partner in deterring communist Chinese military aggression, particularly across the Taiwan Strait. Hegseth emphasized the shared warrior ethos between the U.S. and Japan, highlighting Japan’s crucial role in maintaining peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region.
Last year, the Biden administration announced a restructuring of the U.S. military command in Japan to deepen coordination with Japanese forces, citing China as their greatest strategic challenge. The restructuring will involve placing a combined operational commander in Japan, aligning with Japan’s establishment of a joint operations command within its Self-Defense Forces.
In conclusion, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s memo marks a significant step towards ensuring equal standards for all service members in combat roles. By prioritizing high standards and unity within the military, Hegseth aims to strengthen the effectiveness and credibility of the U.S. armed forces. His efforts to enhance military cooperation with allies like Japan demonstrate a commitment to deterring threats and promoting peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region.
