Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is contemplating the return of “shark attacks,” a practice in basic training where recruits and Army training sergeants aggressively yell at newcomers. This method, intended to establish dominance, was largely phased out about five years ago, but now Hegseth is looking into reinstating it, as confirmed by Pentagon spokesperson Kingsley Wilson during a press briefing on Thursday.
Wilson stated, “He’s going to ensure that basic training meets the necessary standards. We aim to strengthen our fighters, starting with basic training. It’s crucial to return to the fundamentals, and the ‘shark attack’ is something that he is thinking about bringing back.”
The news about Hegseth’s interest in reviving these tactics was initially reported earlier this week. He also shared his sentiments on social platform X, even using a “100” emoji to emphasize his approval.
In an appearance on The Will Cain Show, Hegseth emphasized a commitment to returning to basic military principles. He remarked, “The drill sergeant needs to establish order and discipline, focusing on quality training and formations. Our military officers need a solid foundation of discipline and tradition, so returning to these basics is beneficial.”
The Army began to phase out shark attacks in 2020, evaluating their effectiveness. The U.S. Army Infantry Academy in Fort Benning, Georgia, found them less useful for today’s entirely volunteer force, in contrast to the earlier draft era.
“Shark attacks were seen as a method to transition recruits into military life, requiring them to adhere to Army rules,” a representative noted back in September 2020. It was particularly relevant during the Vietnam War when many soldiers were conscripts. Nowadays, the Army relies on volunteers.
Instead of shark attacks, the Army introduced “the first 100 yards,” where drill sergeants guide recruits through structured exercises aimed at fostering camaraderie.
Despite this shift, Hegseth believes that practices like shark attacks have a place in basic training. He refers to the emotional and challenging experience that recruits endure, stating, “Anyone who’s gone through basic training knows it’s a crucible. You’re pushed, you feel scared and anxious, but you come out stronger as an American warrior. The shark attack symbolizes that instant when a drill sergeant encapsulates the intensity of the experience.”
