BERLIN, GERMANY (VINnews)-U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth kicked off his day by training alongside elite soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 10th Special Forces Group (1/10 SFG) in Germany. This unit, renowned for its rigorous training and specialized operations, is one of the U.S. Army’s most formidable Special Forces teams. Hegseth’s decision to join the troops for physical training (PT) showcased his hands-on approach to leadership, marking a sharp departure from the more traditional, office-bound role of the Secretary of Defense.
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The morning workout, which included pushups, deadlifts, and other strength exercises, was more than just a display of physical endurance. It was a strategic and symbolic gesture, allowing Hegseth to connect with the servicemen and women on a personal level. “I probably connect more with those guys than four-star generals,” Hegseth remarked after the workout. “When I can get down, do pushups, do deadlifts, and just hear from them—what’s working, what isn’t? I love that.”
For Hegseth, a veteran of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, the workout is an essential component of his leadership philosophy. Having served as an infantry officer and later an executive at veterans organizations, he maintains a unique rapport with the rank and file of the military. Hegseth’s past has provided him with an understanding of the challenges faced by soldiers, from tactical operations to morale, and this informs his approach to the role of Secretary of Defense.
A Hands-On Leadership Style
Hegseth’s physical training with the 1/10 SFG is part of a broader pattern of his hands-on engagement with military personnel. Unlike many of his predecessors, who often interacted primarily with top military brass and Pentagon officials, Hegseth emphasizes the importance of spending time with troops on the ground. His PT sessions, alongside other informal meet-and-greets, allow him to gain unfiltered insights into what the troops are experiencing in the field.
“When you’re sitting in a boardroom, you’re hearing high-level briefings and polished presentations. But when you’re doing pushups next to someone who’s just finished a deployment or is preparing for one, the conversation is different,” Hegseth stated.
