Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth Addresses Troops at Fort Bragg, Emphasizes Trump's Support

Recognition of Excellence

• 🎖️ The event began by celebrating the 82nd Airborne Division's best paratroopers, including NCO of the Year, Soldier of the Year, and Division Jump Master of the Year.
• 🏆 The best squad and finalists from the US Army Best Ranger competition were also recognized for their exceptional performance.
• 🏅 The First Battalion 325 Airborne Infantry Regiment was named the overall best battalion of All American Week 2025.

Secretary Hegseth's Address to Troops

• 🇺🇸 Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth conveyed a message from President Trump, assuring troops that "he has your back" and is focused on putting America First.
• 🦅 Hegseth described the paratroopers as a "national treasure", emphasizing their readiness to deploy anywhere in the world and defeat any enemy.
• 🤝 He expressed his honor in standing with current and past service members, highlighting the importance of community and the military's role.

Focus on Readiness and Support

• 🛠️ Hegseth outlined a commitment to restoring the warrior ethos, focusing on readiness, training, war fighting, and accountability for all service members.
• 🏡 Significant investments are planned for barracks, housing, and healthcare, along with an increase in pay, particularly for E1 to E4 ranks.
• 💰 A key announcement included an increase in jump pay for the first time in 25 years, and additional incentive pay for jump masters.

Rebuilding Military Strength and Deterrence

• 🚀 The administration is committed to historic investments to ensure the 82nd Airborne is better equipped than any other fighting force.
• 🛡️ Hegseth stated that under President Trump's watch, the military will reestablish deterrence and ensure America's strength is recognized globally, referencing recent global conflicts and the withdrawal from Afghanistan.
• 🕊️ The core message is to achieve "peace through strength", preparing for war to long for peace, a motto embodied by the paratroopers.