Shawn Fleetwood writes for the Federalist about improvement in American military recruiting.
The U.S. military is “already surpassing” the recruiting numbers it saw during last year’s recruiting surge, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth disclosed on Monday.
The revelation came during a swearing-in ceremony for new recruits conducted in front of military recruiting stations in Newport News, Virginia. Hegseth officiated the oath for incoming members of the armed services, including new members of the Virginia National Guard.
While acknowledging the Biden-era recruiting crisis, Hegseth noted that the recruiting environment is “exceedingly different today than it was just a year ago following the election of President Trump and the changes we’re making at the War Department.” The secretary went on to reveal that “for this year that we’re entering into,” the military is “already surpassing” last year’s figures.
“We’re setting new records at the War Department of historic recruitment of men and women wanting to join the ranks, and you’re a part of that. So, congratulations,” Hegseth said.
The secretary did not provide specific numbers during his remarks.
Throughout his speech, Hegseth praised the new recruits for seeking to “be a part of something special” and their willingness to “raise their right hand to defend the Constitution and the country.” He further reaffirmed the Trump administration’s commitment to “do right by you” and “have your back.”
“You [can] have the best ships and planes and subs. Everything you would need. But ultimately, it’s not about platforms; it’s about people. It’s about those American warriors stepping up to answer the call,” Hegseth said.
The secretary would go on to echo similar sentiments when later speaking to sailors aboard the future USS John F. Kennedy (CVN 79), a Ford-class aircraft carrier undergoing construction at Newport News’ shipbuilding yard. The vessel is expected to be delivered to the Navy in spring 2027.
