Secretary of War Visits Colorado Springs
In Colorado Springs, U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth addressed an assembly of about 3,500 cadets from the Air Force and Space Force, aiming to uplift spirits ahead of the Air Force vs. Navy football game. This appearance marked the second stage of his “Send Me Tour.”
Hegseth kicked off his day at the U.S. Air Force Academy by participating in a morning physical training session with roughly 400 cadets. It appeared he enjoyed the camaraderie, as he received a T-shirt from the academy during the workout.
Regarding the inspiration for his tour’s name, Hegseth referenced the Bible verse from Isaiah 6:8, highlighting a powerful message about volunteering for service. He emphasized the initiative shown by the cadets for choosing to serve.
“You already made your decision that 99% of Americans will never make — that’s why you are the real 1%,” he conveyed to the students, aiming to underscore the significance of their commitment. He expressed a desire to acknowledge the remarkable choices made by individuals like them.
Continuing, he said, “We want to showcase you … the best of our country, who made the decision when you were young to serve something greater than yourself.”
As he reflected on America’s military history during this 250th anniversary year, Hegseth mentioned, “We’ve had young Americans that said ‘send me to fight the redcoats,’ ‘send me to fight the Communists,’ ‘send me to fight the Nazis,’ ‘send me to fight the Islamists.’” He stressed the importance of future generations stepping up as challenges inevitably arise.
The purpose of the “Send Me Tour” is largely to boost military morale. Hegseth, a proponent of traditions that connect the public to military sacrifices, noted how rituals help convey the weight of freedom that the armed forces defend. He expressed a belief in the power of civic rituals to inspire young people.
In his twenty-minute address, Hegseth also detailed six initiatives from the Department of War designed to shape the future of the armed forces, including the Autonomous Warfare Command and America’s Corps of Cadets.
He concluded by articulating what he calls the department’s “Golden Rule”: treating military personnel as one would wish their own children to be treated. Referencing the biblical wisdom from Matthew 7:12, he underscored the essential need for capable support among military formations.
“So, thank you for what you’re doing. You have raised your hand to say, ‘Send me,’” Hegseth finished, expressing gratitude for their service.
