Pete Hegseth pushes for tougher standards in military following speech on fat generals

In the United States, on Saturday, following a Navy football victory over the Air Force, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth delivered a speech to U.S. Navy personnel, referencing a prior address made to military commanders at Quantico, Virginia. During his speech, he emphasized the importance of fighting like a warrior and expressed admiration for the resilience of the Navy Midshipmen. He used the occasion to call for a reset of military standards, signaling an end to what he described as 'politically correct' and 'woke' attitudes within the armed forces. This approach aligns with his ongoing focus on reinforcing a traditional military ethos. Hegseth’s remarks followed a controversial address made to military leaders earlier in the week, where he denounced perceived shortcomings in physical standards among military personnel. His statements included a critique of the presence of 'fat troops' and imposed a requirement for all active-duty members to meet annual fitness tests, asserting that combat roles should have exacting standards irrespective of gender. The consequences he outlined could potentially limit combat opportunities for some women depending on performance metrics, a subject that has sparked mixed reactions among veterans and the public alike. He stated that having a clear mission is crucial, noting that service members must be unyielding in tough situations, acting as a reliable compass for those they lead in life-and-death scenarios. Hegseth also received attention from media outlets, including a segment on 'Saturday Night Live' where the skit mocked his comments and the military's state, leading to further public dialogue about the implications of his statements on military culture and gender inclusivity. This environment paints a picture of a military force grappling with evolving standards while under the leadership that seeks to reinforce traditional values.