Overview

• Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth convened roughly 800 generals and admirals at Marine Corps Base Quantico and announced directives to restore a “highest male standard” for all combat arms roles, tighten grooming policies, and require twice‑yearly fitness tests for all ranks.
• He ordered reviews that loosen protections against hazing and redefine “toxic leadership,” moved to reform the Pentagon inspector general and equal‑opportunity processes, and eliminated anonymous complaints to commanders.
• President Donald Trump told the assembled leaders the military should use “dangerous cities” as training grounds and warned of an “invasion from within,” signaling expanded domestic roles that raise Posse Comitatus concerns.
• Attendees were largely silent throughout the speeches as Hegseth urged officers who disagree to resign and publicly disparaged retired leaders by name, calling for a new cohort aligned with his approach.
• Democratic officials, including Sen. Jack Reed, condemned the event as politicizing the force, while some Republicans, such as Sen. Lindsey Graham and Sen. Joni Ernst, praised elements of the message, and experts warned of strategic risk in concentrating so many senior leaders in one place.