Newly confirmed Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth delivered his first official message to service members, emphasizing his commitment to restoring the "warrior ethos" and reinforcing America's military dominance under President Donald J.

Just hours after his confirmation as defense secretary on Friday night, Pete Hegseth issued his “message to the force” in a Pentagon press release. He said it was the “privilege of a lifetime to lead the warriors of the Department of Defense,” and he urged his new subordinates to “put America first” and “never back down.”

The 51-50 decision came after three Republicans voted against Hegseth. Vice President JD Vance had to cast the tiebreaking vote.