Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth unveiled major changes to U.S. military policy in a speech to hundreds of top commanders at Marine Corps Base Quantico. The new directives end diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, lift hazing restrictions in boot camp, and enforce stricter grooming and fitness standards, including requiring women to meet the same physical benchmarks as men. Hegseth framed the move as ending “politically correct” leadership and pushing merit-based promotions. President Trump also addressed the commanders, calling unrest in Democratic-led cities an “invasion from within” and urging their use as training grounds. Critics argued Hegseth focused too much on grooming rules instead of defense strategy. The cost of the last-minute gathering is expected to reach millions.

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