Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth recently referred to U.S. military bases by their old names, signaling a shift in the Pentagon’s approach to removing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs. This move aligns with the administration’s goal to focus on warfighting readiness and remove ideological distractions.
Hegseth emphasized that military strength should prioritize combat readiness, not social experiments. His comments reflect the administration’s broader push to undo DEI changes, such as renaming bases after Confederate generals, and return to traditional military values.
President [Commander-in-Chief’s Name] has directed a review of DEI programs in the Pentagon, aiming to focus on merit-based recruitment and training. Hegseth has voiced strong support for these changes, arguing the military’s mission is to defend the country, not cater to political trends.
The move has sparked reactions from both sides, with supporters praising a return to core values, while critics argue it undermines efforts for a more inclusive military. The debate over DEI in the military is likely to intensify as the Pentagon moves forward with these changes.