On Tuesday, President Donald Trump conveyed to the military leader of Quantico Marine Base that his administration aims to rejuvenate the “warrior spirit” within the U.S. military.
Following remarks from Secretary of War Pete Hegses, Trump highlighted the importance of rekindling this “warrior spirit” and reaffirmed his unwavering support for American servicemen.
“We remember the spirit of warriors together. This is the spirit that acquired and built this nation from the cavalry who tamed the Great Plains to the fierce and indomitable forces of Patton, Bradley and General Douglas MacArthur. These are all great men,” Trump said.
“In this effort, we are a team. My message is quite straightforward. I’m with you, I support you, and as president, I have your back 100%,” he continued. “You’ll never see me waver, and that’s just how it is. And this is working out well with our amazing police officers and firefighters too.”
Trump has committed to enhancing the military throughout his time in office.
“Over the next few years, we aim to make our troops stronger, tougher, faster, more intense, and more capable than ever. We’ve rebuilt the core, but hopefully, we won’t need to use it,” he mentioned.
Trump also stated he would dismiss any general he found unsuitable “on the spot.”
Before departing for Quantico, Trump spoke to reporters on the South Lawn and described the upcoming address as “Esprit de Corporation.”
“These are our generals, our admirals, our leaders, and that’s excellent,” he reflected. “This kind of event hasn’t been done before and comes from all around the world. It’s not cheap, but it’s worth it.”
“We needed a significant revitalization, and it’s going to be remarkable… Our true warriors are out there, and if we don’t feel they measure up, well, do you know what happens?”
Trump also expressed his discontent regarding some generals from the previous administration, including Mark Millay, James Mattis, and Mark Esper.
“I had amazing people working for me, but there were a few not-so-great ones at the top, like Millie, Mattis, and Esper. I called him ‘always too late,'” he added. “He was terrible, but, well, I learned because I know I was part of that, and I chose them.”
