Defense secretary talks how to get US military ‘back to basics,’ calls US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities ‘one of the most brilliant efforts in our military history’
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has laid out an ambitious vision to reshape the U.S. military from the ground up, promising to revive what he calls the “warrior ethos” and restore rigorous standards for American troops.
In a wide-ranging interview with Fox News host Lara Trump, Hegseth called his role “the honor of a lifetime” and made clear that his mission, from day one, has been to rebuild the U.S. Armed Forces — not just in size, but in spirit.
“Our commitment has been crystal clear from the start,” Hegseth said on My View with Lara Trump. “Restore the warrior mentality, raise the bar, and bring back the standards that made this military great. That’s what President Trump did in his first term, and we’re doing it again.”
Trump’s Iran Strikes: ‘One of the Most Brilliant Military Efforts’
Hegseth also praised the June operation that targeted Iranian nuclear sites — dubbed Operation Midnight Hammer — as a model of military precision and presidential leadership.
Calling it “one of the most brilliant efforts in our military history,” Hegseth credited the B-2 bomber crews who carried out the strikes, but emphasized that it was Trump’s bold decision-making that set the tone.
“President Trump knew exactly what those weapons could do and where they needed to hit,” he said. “Those targets were obliterated. He trusted the warfighters to execute, and they delivered.”
Back to Basics: Fitness, Standards, and Accountability
Under Hegseth’s leadership, the Pentagon is reemphasizing the basics — including mandatory morning physical training (PT) and performance-based standards for all service members.
“One of the most fundamental things in the military is PT in the morning,” he said. “We’re making sure that happens across the board.”
Hegseth made clear that physical expectations will be the same for men and women: “Whether you’re carrying a rucksack, an artillery round, or dragging your buddy to safety — it doesn’t matter who you are. You either meet the standard or you don’t.”
Structural Reform and ‘America First’ at the Pentagon
Despite early wins, Hegseth acknowledged that transforming the culture of the military is no simple task.
“Changing a massive institution like the Department of Defense isn’t overnight work,” he said. “But the response we’re already seeing in recruitment — that’s a sign we’re on the right path.”
He said the ultimate goal is to embed the “America First” doctrine into every level of the military, from command decisions to training.
“There’s a ton of work still ahead,” he admitted. “We’ve only just begun putting that America First stamp on this department.”
Family Support Behind the Mission
Hegseth also gave a personal nod to his wife and children, calling them “his rock” during this period of intense national responsibility.
“This has been a family mission from day one,” he said. “The kids still just see me as Dad — they don’t really get it. But my wife’s been with me every step of the way.”
While proud of early accomplishments, Hegseth made it clear his focus is long-term. His goal: a stronger, leaner, tougher U.S. military — built to deter, ready to fight, and grounded in traditional values.
