LIVE: Defense Secretary Speaks to NEW Army Officers at Fort Benning Georgia Ceremony!

U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth speaking at an Army Officer Candidate School (OCS) graduation at Fort Benning on September 4, 2025, are credible based on multiple recent news reports and official biographies.

Details of the event
What: Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth is reported to have spoken at an Army Officer Candidate School graduation ceremony.

Where: The ceremony took place at Fort Benning, Georgia. In February 2025, Hegseth hinted at reverting the installation's name back to Fort Benning from Fort Moore, but reports do not indicate whether the name change was finalized by September 4.

When: The event occurred on September 4, 2025, with news and analysis of his speech published later that day.
Who is Pete Hegseth?

Background: A former Fox News co-host and Army National Guard officer, Hegseth was confirmed as the 29th U.S. Secretary of Defense on January 25, 2025.

Policy and positions: Hegseth has a long record of advocating for conservative positions and criticizing what he calls "wokeness" in the military. He has emphasized a return to a "warrior culture" and has overseen budget cuts to diversity and climate-related initiatives within the Pentagon.

Controversies: His confirmation was contentious, with some senators citing a lack of senior experience and previous allegations of misconduct. In March 2025, he was involved in a controversy for allegedly sharing sensitive military operational information in a group chat.

Potential significance of his speech
Message to new officers: As a former combat veteran himself, Hegseth likely used the OCS ceremony to reinforce his message about restoring what he considers the military's core warrior ethos and de-emphasizing social initiatives.

Emphasis on tradition: His appearance at Fort Benning (or possibly Fort Moore) on the date of the event provides a platform to address newly commissioned Army officers and project his leadership philosophy.

Watch as the Defense Secretary delivers a keynote speech to newly commissioned Army officers at a ceremony held at Fort Benning, highlighting the importance of leadership, duty, and service to the nation. The ceremony marks a significant milestone in the officers' careers, as they prepare to take on new challenges and responsibilities. The Defense Secretary's address emphasizes the values of integrity, honor, and courage, and encourages the new officers to embody these principles as they lead their troops and serve their country. This video captures the essence of the ceremony, showcasing the pride and tradition of the US Army, and provides insight into the Secretary's vision for the future of the military.

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Defense Secretary Speaks to NEW Army Officers at Fort Benning Ceremony?
Hegseth Speaks at Officer Candidate School Graduation
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth speaks to a graduating class of the Army Officer Candidate School during a ceremony at Fort Benning, Ga., Sept. 4, 2025.

Film Credits: Defense.gov