Pete Hegseth critiques diversity policies at Navy milestone

 October 6, 2025

In a compelling address at Naval Station Norfolk, War Secretary Pete Hegseth honored the U.S. Navy's 250th anniversary with a pointed message on military focus.

During the significant commemoration in Virginia, Hegseth emphasized President Donald Trump's "America first" stance while opposing diversity initiatives, advocating for a cohesive mission among Navy personnel, as Breitbart reports.

The milestone event was hosted at Naval Station Norfolk, widely recognized as the largest naval base in the world, located in the heart of Virginia.

Commemorating 250 Years of Naval History

This vast military installation, supporting over 82,000 active-duty service members and more than 29,000 civilian staff, provided an ideal setting for such a historic occasion.

Hegseth addressed thousands of Sailors in attendance, reflecting on the Navy's long-standing role in defending the nation across two and a half centuries of service.

He aligned the celebration with the current administration's core values, highlighting a dedication to "America first, and peace through strength with common sense at every turn."

Highlighting Transition to War Department

As part of his speech, Hegseth drew attention to a notable policy adjustment, referencing the rebranding of the Department of Defense as the Department of War.

This change in terminology, he noted, underscores a strategic emphasis on achieving lasting peace through a robust and resolute military framework.

He also spoke to urgent operational demands, calling for an expansion in the Navy's resources, including recruiting additional Sailors, building more submarines, acquiring new ships, and bolstering munitions reserves.

Questioning DEI for Stronger Military Bonds

Shifting focus to internal military culture, Hegseth voiced reservations about diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, commonly known by the acronym DEI.

He argued that these efforts might weaken collective resolve, asserting clearly, "Your diversity is not your strength. Your strength is your unity of purpose, your shared mission, your love of country."

His remarks urged the assembled Sailors to embrace a shared commitment to national defense, placing it above individual or cultural distinctions to maintain a focused fighting force.

Invoking Past Heroes for Future Resolve

For inspiration, Hegseth recalled the legacy of Revolutionary War naval figure John Paul Jones, citing his unyielding spirit with the phrase, "I have not yet begun to fight."

He connected this historic determination to contemporary promises, stating, "Looking out at all of you — I know you know why the President always says we have the strongest, most powerful, most lethal, most ready military on the planet, and he’s going to make sure we keep it that way."

The gathering also included comments from first lady Melania Trump and a detailed 45-minute speech from President Trump, adding considerable weight to the event's importance. Hegseth wrapped up his address with a heartfelt expression of thanks on behalf of the Pentagon, saying, "So war fighters, on behalf of everyone at the Department of War, thank you. Thank you for your commitment to America’s Navy." The Sailors responded with loud and sustained applause, reflecting the deep impact of the anniversary celebration at Norfolk, which not only honored the Navy's past achievements but also set a tone for its future challenges and aspirations under the current leadership.