What was Pete Hegseth in the Military?
Pete Hegseth is a well-known American conservative commentator, author, and television personality. However, before he rose to fame, Hegseth had a distinguished military career that shaped his perspectives and values. In this article, we will explore what Pete Hegseth did in the military.
Early Military Career
Hegseth was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the United States Army in 2002, following his graduation from Princeton University. He was assigned to the 1st Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, based in Vilseck, Germany.
Deployments and Medals
During his time in the military, Hegseth was deployed twice:
- Iraq: In 2005-2006, Hegseth served as a team leader in the 101st Airborne Division, participating in Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was responsible for securing and rebuilding a region in central Iraq.
- Afghanistan: In 2008, Hegseth was deployed to Afghanistan as a staff sergeant, serving with the 101st Airborne Division again. He worked in the military’s Human Intelligence (HUMINT) and Counter-Intelligence (CI) operations.
Throughout his military career, Hegseth received numerous medals and awards, including:
- Bronze Star Medal: Awarded for his exceptional service and leadership in Iraq.
- Army Commendation Medal: Awarded for his outstanding service and bravery in Afghanistan.
- Valorous Unit Award: Awarded to his unit for their heroic actions during the Iraq War.
Special Forces and Training
In 2009, Hegseth was accepted into the United States Army Special Forces (Green Berets) program. He completed the Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S) training, the most challenging training program in the US military.
However, Hegseth ultimately left the Special Forces program before completing it due to personal reasons. He chose to continue serving in the conventional Army instead.
Promotions and Discharge
Hegseth served in the Army for seven years, rising through the ranks to become a staff sergeant. He was honorably discharged from the Army in 2009, following his second deployment to Afghanistan.
Post-Military Career
After leaving the military, Hegseth pursued a career in journalism and television. He co-founded the conservative organization Concerned Veterans for America and has since become a prominent figure on Fox News, hosting various programs and discussing current events and politics.
Legacy and Impact
Pete Hegseth’s military experience has significantly influenced his worldview and perspective on various issues. His service and accomplishments have earned him the respect of many, including veterans and military personnel. His post-military career has also inspired many to serve their country and continue to make a positive impact in their communities.
Comparison to Other Military Vets in Media
Many prominent media personalities have also served in the military. For example:
| Military Experience | Media Personality |
|---|---|
| US Navy, Iraq War | Anderson Cooper (CNN) |
| US Army, Iraq War | Nick Sandmann (Fox News) |
| US Army, Afghanistan War | Brian Kolfage (Fox News) |
Pete Hegseth’s military experience and background make him a unique and influential voice in the media.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Pete Hegseth’s military career was marked by exceptional service, leadership, and bravery. His deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as his training in the US Army Special Forces program, have shaped his perspectives and values. Today, Hegseth continues to serve as a powerful voice in the media, inspiring and educating millions about the importance of military service and the need for patriotism and national unity.
