Pentagon to host generals' meeting on Hegseth's 'warrior ethos' plan

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: CNN
26 Sep 2025 23:38
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Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth has ordered a rare gathering of senior US military leaders at Quantico to unveil a rebranding of the Pentagon as the "Department of War" and promote a new "warrior ethos," with officers warned to comply or risk their careers.

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FILE - Secretary of War Pete Hegseth speaks to reporters at the Pentagon, July 16, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson, File)

War Secretary Pete Hegseth has summoned nearly all senior US military officers worldwide to an unusual meeting at Quantico, Virginia, next week, where he intends to present the administration's vision for transforming the Pentagon into the "Department of War."

CNN reported Friday that the gathering, set for Tuesday, will introduce a package of changes centered on a "warrior ethos," with new standards for readiness, physical fitness, and grooming. "It's meant to be a show of force of what the new military now looks like under the president," a White House official told the network.

According to defense officials, the event will be more of a showcase than a policy rollout. "Officers must get on board or risk their careers," one said, noting that no major national security announcements are expected. Two sources added that President Trump does not plan to attend or take part in the session.

The Washington Post noted that the meeting was Hegseth's initiative, with the president largely unaware of the details. Senior officers invited, including generals, admirals, and their equivalents across the services, were not told the agenda in advance and must provide a strong reason if they cannot attend, a defense official explained.