DOD launches fitness review, calls Mark Milley ‘corpulent’ amid push for stricter standards

The Pentagon has announced a new review of physical fitness and grooming standards under the leadership of Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. In a statement to Fox News Digital, Pentagon press secretary John Ullyot took a swipe at former Joint Chiefs Chairman Mark Milley, attributing the erosion of high standards to his tenure.

Ullyot highlighted concerns about the decline in body composition metrics and other standards in recent years, emphasizing the need to restore high standards within the U.S. military. The review will focus on protocols for physical fitness, body composition, and grooming, including standards related to beards.

Secretary Hegseth has expressed concerns about the impact of mismatched standards for men and women on readiness and is committed to ensuring that troops are fit and maintain a sharp appearance. He emphasized the importance of quality over quotas, signaling a shift towards meritocracy within the military.

The review will also examine changes in standards since 2015, particularly in the context of gender-neutral criteria. Hegseth has emphasized the need for equal standards for men and women in ground combat roles, underscoring the importance of readiness and meritocracy in the military.

One potential outcome of the review could be changes to the Army Combat Fitness Test, which currently has age- and gender-specific requirements. The test, implemented in 2023, replaced a previous fitness test that imposed the same standards on men and women.

In recent years, the military has made accommodations for recruits who do not meet physical fitness standards as a way to address recruitment challenges. However, these recruits must still meet the same standards to graduate from training courses and serve in the military.

Secretary Hegseth has criticized the relaxation of standards in areas such as grooming and physical fitness, attributing it to the pursuit of equity. He highlighted the shift towards allowing different hairstyles, including cornrows and twists, to accommodate the needs of female service members.

The review of physical fitness and grooming standards reflects Secretary Hegseth’s commitment to restoring high standards within the U.S. military. By addressing concerns about eroded standards and promoting equality in criteria, the Pentagon aims to enhance readiness and maintain a culture of excellence within the armed forces.