Pete Hegseth, the nominee for defense secretary under President-elect Donald Trump, has a distinguished military career that spans nearly two decades. Serving in the US military from October 2002 to March 2021, Hegseth rose to the rank of major during his tenure.
As an infantry officer, Hegseth demonstrated his commitment to service through multiple overseas deployments. His first deployment took him to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, from June 2004 to April 2005. Subsequently, he served in Iraq from September 2005 to July 2006, followed by a deployment to Afghanistan from May 2011 to January 2012.
Throughout his military service, Hegseth's dedication and bravery were recognized with prestigious accolades. He was awarded two Bronze Stars for his exceptional performance in challenging environments, highlighting his leadership and valor under pressure. Additionally, Hegseth received several other commendations for his contributions to the military.
Pete Hegseth's extensive experience in the National Guard, coupled with his combat deployments and commendations, position him as a seasoned and capable candidate for the role of defense secretary. His background reflects a deep commitment to national security and a proven track record of leadership in demanding situations.
