The Department of Defense requires more than just an administrator or politician at its helm. It needs a warrior and scholar—someone who understands the complexities of the battlefield and the challenges of shaping sound defense policy.
Having served with Pete Hegseth, I can say that he is the leader America needs as its next Secretary of Defense. Pete brings an unparalleled combination of combat-tested leadership, strategic vision, and a deep understanding of both military operations and reform.
Pete's resume reflects his exceptional career. Following the September 11th attacks, he volunteered to serve at the front lines in the war on terror to protect his fellow Americans—both as a platoon leader at Guantanamo Bay and in the frontlines of combat in Iraq. Pete has proven that when American security is at risk, he will be the first to step up to confront the threat.
I watched him navigate the complexities of the battlefield, where chaos and uncertainty were the norm. Pete led his troops with unwavering confidence, earning the trust and respect of those who served under him. His ability to build relationships with local leaders while executing precision military operations in Afghanistan demonstrated not only his tactical expertise but also his strategic acumen.
What sets Pete apart is that his service didn't stop when he came home. Many service members struggle to transition from the battlefield to civilian life, but Pete used his experiences to become one of the nation's most effective advocates for our military and veterans. At Concerned Veterans for America, Pete demonstrated his ability to mobilize support, build coalitions, and drive meaningful reform. His work tackling bureaucratic inefficiencies and entrenched interests proves that he's willing to take on the hard fights—something the Pentagon desperately needs.
Pete's credentials extend beyond the battlefield. His education at Princeton and Harvard speaks to his intellectual rigor and ability to navigate complex issues. He's not just a soldier—he's a scholar, and that matters.
The challenges America faces today demand a Secretary of Defense who can think strategically about the future of warfare, geopolitics, and military preparedness. Pete's ability to combine intellectual insight with real-world experience makes him uniquely qualified to lead the Defense Department at this critical moment.
Today, America faces a world defined by chaos, instability, and rising threats. From great power adversaries like China and Russia to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, we need a leader who understands the global landscape and how to protect America's interests. Pete has both the vision and the experience to meet these challenges head-on. He understands what it takes to ensure military readiness, equip our troops, and build a force capable of deterring and defeating any adversary.
Perhaps most importantly, Pete is a leader who inspires. His commitment to the men and women in uniform is unmatched, and his ability to connect with them—because he's been in their shoes—gives him a unique credibility. At a time when trust in our institutions is wavering, Pete brings authenticity, integrity, and a deep love for this country.
The Department of Defense doesn't need another bureaucrat; it needs a battle-tested leader who understands the cost of war, the complexities of national security, and the importance of bold leadership. Pete Hegseth is that leader. I've served with him, I've seen him lead, and I know he has what it takes to ensure America remains strong, safe, and prepared for the challenges that lie ahead.
America deserves a Secretary of Defense who will put our troops and American interests first. Pete Hegseth has proven time and again that he is the leader we deserve.
Chip Rankin served with Pete In Kabul, Afghanistan during 2011-2012
