Secretary of War Pete Hegseth Shames ‘Fat Troops’ and Generals — and Reveals New Military Weight Requirements 

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth Criticises ‘Overweight Troops’ and Generals

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth recently delivered a speech addressing the issue of fitness within the military, singling out “fat generals and admirals” as a cause for concern. As part of his announcement, he introduced new physical requirements that all members of the armed forces must adhere to. This marks a significant move in his efforts to enhance the overall readiness and appearance of the military.

Hegseth, who was formerly known as the Secretary of Defense before his title was changed to Secretary of War, emphasised the importance of physical fitness for all service members. He stressed that he, as a leader, sets an example by engaging in regular intense physical training and expects the same commitment from every member of the joint force. Hegseth highlighted that having overweight military personnel, especially in high-ranking positions, reflects poorly on the military as a whole.

During his address at Quantico, Va., on September 30, Hegseth underscored the necessity for height and weight requirements for all individuals in the armed forces. He expressed his frustration at witnessing unfit troops in combat formations and made it clear that the new fitness standards apply to everyone, regardless of their rank or role in the military. Hegseth’s directive includes mandatory PT tests twice a year, as well as meeting height and weight standards regularly.

In addition to addressing physical fitness, Hegseth raised concerns about combat roles and the need for maintaining high standards, particularly in male-dominated fields. He emphasised that combat jobs should adhere to the “highest male standard only,” highlighting the importance of gender-neutral physical requirements. While Hegseth acknowledged the value of female troops in the military, he stressed that performance in combat roles must be based on physical capabilities rather than gender.

Furthermore, Hegseth announced a crackdown on what he referred to as “weak men,” indicating a zero-tolerance policy towards those who do not meet the physical or proficiency standards set by the military. He also signalled an end to practices such as allowing “dudes in dresses” and emphasised a shift away from what he termed as “climate change worship.” These statements suggest a broader overhaul of military practices and a focus on enhancing readiness and efficiency.

The Secretary of War’s remarks have sparked discussions on the importance of physical fitness in the military and the implications of stringent new requirements. While some applaud Hegseth’s commitment to improving the overall health and appearance of the armed forces, others express concerns about the potential impact on personnel who may struggle to meet the set standards. The decision to revert to a male-only standard for combat roles has also raised questions about inclusivity and diversity within the military.

As the military implements these new fitness guidelines, it remains to be seen how service members will respond to the heightened expectations. Hegseth’s initiatives aim to underscore the importance of physical readiness and performance in the armed forces, signalling a shift towards a more rigorous and demanding approach to maintaining military standards. The Secretary of War continues to advocate for a strong and capable military force, one that embodies discipline, resilience, and preparedness in all aspects of service.