Concerns Raised Over Hegseth’s Comments on Women in Combat

Former Army Deputy Chief of Staff Peter Chiarelli expressed his worries regarding Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s recent remarks about women in the military.

Chiarelli stated, “I’m concerned about the notion of attacks on women and the idea that there are voices suggesting women can be placed in various combat roles yet fail to meet the standards.” He mentioned this during a conversation with over 800 generals and admirals, referencing Hegseth’s assertion that all combat positions across the military branches “should return to the highest standards of males.”

“If women can make it, great. If not, then it is what it is,” Hegseth commented on Tuesday in Quantico, Virginia.

It’s worth noting that each military branch has its own physical fitness test, which varies in criteria based on gender. For example, in the Army Fitness Test—where a total of five events are scored—men aged 17 to 21 must deadlift 150 pounds for 60 points, while women in the same age range need to lift 120 pounds to receive the same score.

However, combat roles, including infantry and armor, are held to gender-neutral fitness standards. Since January 2016, all military positions have been open to women.

Chiarelli pointed out that when the Army opened its Ranger Program, the standards remained unchanged. “The reality is, everyone is in combat on the battlefield today,” he added.

During Senate confirmation, Hegseth indicated his support for women’s service in all military positions. According to the Pentagon’s 2023 Demographic Report, over 225,000 active women serve in the military, comprising nearly 18% of active-duty personnel.

It’s also notable that Hegseth has previously expressed reservations about women in combat roles. Just last month, the Pentagon disbanded a long-standing advisory committee focused on military women.