WASHINGTON—President Donald Trump announced on Sunday that he would deliver remarks to U.S. generals and admirals in Quantico, Virginia, emphasizing that they are “cherished leaders” who must remain strong, tough, smart, and compassionate.
Speaking in an interview with Reuters, Trump framed the address as an effort to build esprit de corps within the ranks of America’s senior military leadership.
A Rare Meeting of Senior Military Commanders
The gathering, scheduled for Tuesday at Marine Corps University in Quantico, will bring together senior U.S. military leaders from across the globe.
Such a large-scale assembly of two-, three-, and four-star generals and admirals in one location is an uncommon event, highlighting its significance in shaping the current national security agenda.
Hegseth’s Role and the “Warrior Ethos”
Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, who convened the event, is expected to stress adherence to the “warrior ethos” across the armed forces.
Hegseth, a former Fox News host, frequently underscores the importance of a warrior mentality in public speeches and has moved aggressively to implement Trump’s national security priorities.
His leadership has included dismissing top-ranking officers and rolling back diversity initiatives he criticizes as discriminatory.
Department of War: A Controversial Renaming
Earlier in the month, Trump signed an executive order officially renaming the Department of Defense back to its pre–World War II title, the Department of War.
The move, framed by the administration as a return to traditional terminology, marked a symbolic shift from emphasizing prevention of conflict to highlighting readiness for combat.
Logistics and Attendance
Senior commanders traveling from around the world are expected to arrive at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland before proceeding to Quantico. Officials note that those entitled to official aircraft will use them for transportation, underlining the high-profile nature of the gathering.
The Bigger Picture
The event underscores Trump’s effort to directly shape military culture at the highest levels while reinforcing loyalty and unity among commanders.
By coupling symbolic changes—like the renaming of the Pentagon—with an emphasis on toughness and the warrior ethos, the administration signals a decisive pivot toward a more combat-oriented identity for the U.S. armed forces.
