Did you know that Pete Hegseth, the current U.S. Secretary of War, has a military background that often surprises people? Before his political career, he served in the Army National Guard, achieving the rank of major. Let's take a closer look at his military journey.
From Princeton to the Army: Commissioned as a Second Lieutenant
After graduating from Princeton University in 2003, Pete Hegseth was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army through the Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) program. He began his service with the Minnesota Army National Guard. In 2004, he was deployed to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, serving as a platoon leader under the 3rd Battalion, 187th Infantry Regiment of the 101st Airborne Division. During this deployment, he earned the Army Commendation Medal for his service.
Rising Through the Ranks: From Captain to Major
After his initial deployment, Hegseth returned to civilian life but remained committed to military service. In 2011, he was commissioned as a captain in the Minnesota Army National Guard. He later served as a civil affairs officer in Iraq and taught counterinsurgency tactics in Afghanistan. By 2015 or 2016, he was promoted to the rank of major and assigned to the Army Individual Ready Reserve.
Final Years and Resignation
Hegseth continued his service in the Individual Ready Reserve until March 2021. In January 2024, he resigned from the reserve following an incident where a fellow guardsman flagged him as an "insider threat" due to a tattoo bearing the words "Deus vult." This event led to his departure from the military reserves.
Achievements and Recognition
Throughout his military career, Hegseth received several commendations, including:
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Bronze Star Medal
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Army Commendation Medal (twice)
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Combat Infantryman Badge
These awards reflect his dedication and service during his deployments.
Was Pete Hegseth a Navy SEAL?
No, Pete Hegseth was not a Navy SEAL. He served as an infantry officer in the Army National Guard, which is distinct from the Navy SEALs. His military service was primarily with the Army, and he did not undergo training specific to the Navy SEALs.
Personal Insight
Reflecting on Hegseth's military journey, it's evident that his rise through the ranks was marked by commitment and service. Achieving the rank of major is a significant accomplishment in the Army National Guard, showcasing his leadership and dedication. His experiences undoubtedly shaped his perspectives and approach in his subsequent roles.
Conclusion
Pete Hegseth's military career, culminating in the rank of major, highlights his dedication and service to the nation. While he may not have been a Navy SEAL, his achievements in the Army National Guard are commendable. Understanding his military background provides insight into his leadership style and the experiences that have influenced his career.