Pete Hegseth is a prominent figure in conservative media, best known for co-hosting Fox News Channel’s “Fox & Friends Weekend.” Before his successful television career, Hegseth served in the U.S. Army National Guard, and understanding his military background is key to grasping his perspectives and public persona. Many are curious about his service history, specifically asking, what was Pete Hegseth’s rank during his time in the military? This article delves into Hegseth’s military service, exploring his rank, roles, and experiences that shaped his views on defense and national security.
Pete Hegseth’s Military Service: From Princeton to Captain
After graduating from Princeton University in 2003, Pete Hegseth was commissioned as an infantry officer in the Army National Guard. This marked the beginning of his military career, which included deployments to several significant locations. He served overseas in Afghanistan as part of Operation Enduring Freedom, Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom, and also had a deployment to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, contributing to the detainee operations there.
Image alt text: Pete Hegseth, co-host of Fox & Friends Weekend, discussing military topics on set, highlighting his media career after military service.
During his time in service, Hegseth achieved the rank of Captain. While he does not possess senior military or national security experience at the highest levels, his service as a Captain provided him with firsthand experience in military operations and command responsibilities at the company level. This experience is often referenced in his commentary on military and political issues.
Hegseth’s Views Shaped by Military Experience
Hegseth’s military background significantly informs his commentary and political viewpoints. He is a strong advocate for a robust military and has been critical of what he perceives as “woke” ideologies within the armed forces. In his book, “The War on Warriors: Behind the Betrayal of the Men Who Keep Us Free,” Hegseth voices concerns that diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives are weakening the military. He argues for a return to traditional views of masculinity and strength in the military, echoing sentiments similar to those expressed by former President Trump.
Image alt text: Pete Hegseth promoting his book “The War on Warriors,” emphasizing his authorial role and commentary on military and cultural issues.
His criticisms extend to military leadership and policies, claiming that “feckless civilian leaders and foolish brass” undermine rank-and-file soldiers. Hegseth has also been outspoken against transgender service members and the inclusion of women in combat roles, arguing that these changes complicate military effectiveness and lethality. These positions are rooted in his perspective on military strength and readiness, shaped by his time in service and conservative ideology.
Controversies and Public Profile
Beyond his military service and media career, Pete Hegseth has been involved in several notable controversies that have contributed to his public profile. One widely reported incident involved an errant ax throw during a “Fox & Friends” segment in 2015, which resulted in a lawsuit after injuring a U.S. Army master sergeant.
Image alt text: A clip from Fox & Friends showing Pete Hegseth throwing an axe, referencing the controversial on-air incident.
Furthermore, Hegseth advocated for pardons for U.S. service members accused of war crimes in 2019, directly lobbying then-President Trump. This effort proved successful, with Trump issuing pardons and orders in line with Hegseth’s advocacy. These actions, along with his strong opinions on military matters and political issues, have solidified his position as a significant and often polarizing figure in American public discourse.
Conclusion: Captain Hegseth’s Enduring Influence
In summary, Pete Hegseth’s rank in the military was Captain in the Army National Guard. While his highest achieved rank may not be among the most senior, his military service in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Guantanamo Bay has profoundly influenced his views and career. As a Fox News host and author, Hegseth leverages his military background to provide commentary on defense, politics, and culture, often advocating for a strong, traditionally-oriented military. Understanding his military service, including what Pete Hegseth’s rank was, provides crucial context for interpreting his perspectives and influence in contemporary media and political discussions.
