WASHINGTON – On Tuesday, War Secretary Pete Hegses commended the ongoing meetings of top American generals and admirals, emphasizing that combat forces are required to meet “male-level” fitness standards in life-and-death situations.
He stated that if women or “less fit men” fail to reach these benchmarks, then, “yes,” it’s a concern, during his remarks at the Marine Corps Base in Quantico, Virginia.
“Honestly, it’s tiring to witness the unfit troops, particularly seeing overweight generals and admirals at the Pentagon. We should be leading the world,” he added. “It doesn’t represent who we are!”
Hegseth’s directives regarding fitness have been distributed to all branches of the military, outlining new standards and expectations for service members.
He mentioned that combat forces are expected to undergo serious physical training daily and must take two fitness tests every year.
At 45, Hegses might engage in military training, and Health and Human Services Director Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has issued the “Pete and Bobby Challenge” to encourage fitness among Americans.
“I want my son to be part of a combat unit that is healthy, and I don’t want to see a woman who can’t meet the same physical requirements as a man or a poorly trained unit handling their assigned tasks and weapons,” the secretary expressed.
“Standards need to be uniform, high, and gender-neutral. If they aren’t, they’re merely suggestions. We shouldn’t risk our children’s futures on that.”
Moreover, Hegges criticized the military for promoting too many individuals based on identity rather than merit.
“It’s politically correct and overly sensitive,” he remarked. “Expect to see more changes in leadership,” Heggs assured. “That’s for sure.”
