Hegseth Outlines Vision for Reviving Military Warrior Ethos

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has shared new details about his ambitious plans to restore what he calls the “warrior ethos” within the U.S. armed forces. In a wide-ranging conversation with Fox News host Lara Trump, Hegseth described serving as defense secretary under President Trump as “the honor of a lifetime.”

Back to Basics: Rebuilding Military Standards

“Our mission has been clear since day one of this administration,” Hegseth said on My View with Lara Trump. “We’re committed to restoring the warrior mentality and rebuilding our military — just as President Trump did during his first term, and we’re doing again.”

A key part of that vision, according to Hegseth, involves emphasizing physical fitness and high standards for all service members. “One of the most basic things you can do in the military is PT in the morning,” he noted. “That’s what we’re bringing back — the fundamentals.”

He stressed that physical readiness applies to all troops, regardless of gender or background. “Carrying a rucksack, hauling artillery rounds, or pulling a buddy to safety on the battlefield — it doesn’t matter if you’re a man or a woman. You just need to meet the standard.”

Praising a Historic Mission

Hegseth also highlighted the U.S. military’s June strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, calling the mission Operation Midnight Hammer “one of the most brilliant efforts in our military history.”

“All the credit belongs to the men and women in uniform who executed the operation,” he said. “But President Trump’s leadership set the tone. His instincts were right about what those weapons could accomplish — the targets were obliterated.”

Family Support and Long-Term Goals

Hegseth credited his family for helping him navigate the demands of leading the Pentagon. “I couldn’t do this without my wife; she’s been my rock. And the kids still just see me as dad,” he said.

Although he praised early achievements under the Trump administration, Hegseth emphasized that instilling a lasting warrior culture across the Defense Department remains a work in progress. “Changing big institutions isn’t easy. But the positive response we’ve seen from the American people and the surge in recruiting are inspiring. There’s still a lot to do to leave a true ‘America First’ mark on the Pentagon — and we’re just getting started.