OPINION:
Whenever organizational leaders implement a dramatic course correction, disruptions and failures are inevitable (“‘He lost us’: Generals, senior officers say trust in Hegseth has evaporated,” Web, Oct. 20).
To the general officers complaining about brain drain or feeling embarrassed by remarks made by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, perhaps it’s time to consider retirement or resignation. This is what civilian control of the military is about. Military advise, but ultimate authority rests with those appointed by the president to give legal orders.
If some generals believe they were spoken to disrespectfully, they should re-examine their own commands first. We’ve seen instances where unfit soldiers — such as overweight personnel deployed to Illinois — should have been sent home by senior noncommissioned officers or first-line officers. If it required Mr. Hegseth’s intervention, it indicates a serious breakdown in leadership and discipline.
There is nothing unprofessional about setting clear standards and ensuring that your subordinates understand they will be enforced. To those who feel insulted, get over it. Start removing personnel who cannot meet these standards and focus on fixing your own commands instead of whining.
If you’re feeling uncomfortable about your fitness, perhaps it’s time to shed some pounds or tighten up. The fact that recent studies show more than two-thirds of National Guard and Reserve soldiers — and around 20% of active-duty troops — are overweight or obese is unacceptable. This reflects poorly on leadership and raises serious questions about discipline.
How did we get here? Likely from pressures to retain soldiers despite poor recruitment or generals not paying attention. If you don’t want Defense Secretary Hegseth to get into your business, take care of it.
TOM HENION
Stafford, Virginia
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