WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump is scheduled to participate in a rare Pentagon gathering on Tuesday, which was announced by Secretary of War Pete Hegseth earlier in the week.

Who is going to be present?

What we know

High-ranking military officials and flag officers from various countries are anticipated to be present.

With almost all top U.S. military officials present in the same place, along with Trump and Hegseth, the Secret Service is responsible for security, as reported by FOX News.

By the numbers

The gathering is anticipated to include around 800 generals and admirals, who are located across the United States and deployed in different regions globally,FOX News Digital reportedThe Associated Press reports that senior officers with a one-star rank or higher, along with their leading advisors, were called in.

Senator Tammy Duckworth, a Democrat from Illinois, voiced worries to the Pentagon regarding the expenses associated with transporting officers—Duckworth mentioned that these costs could surpass those for 1,000 U.S. military personnel. She also inquired about which funding sources would cover these expenses, whether travel back might be affected by a possible government shutdown, and if a cost-benefit evaluation was conducted before deciding to meet face-to-face.

When will Hegseth meet with the generals?

The gathering is scheduled for September 30, 2026, at the Marine Corps installation in Quantico, Virginia.

What is the reason for U.S. military personnel gathering in Virginia?

What Trump is Saying

It’s essentially a very pleasant gathering discussing our strong military performance, our excellent condition, and many positive aspects. It’s simply a good message,” Trump said to NBC News. “We have some outstanding individuals joining us, and it’s all about ‘esprit de corps.’ Do you know what ‘esprit de corps’ means? That’s the whole idea. We’re discussing what we’re accomplishing, what they’re doing, and how we’re performing.

What Hegseth is Saying

Hegseth is anticipated to present his “warrior ethos” concept in addition to modifications in appearance and conduct guidelines for military personnel.

Hegseth discussed the “warrior ethos” as a key focus for the Trump administration’s initial 100 days in a speech this past April.

Our primary goals have been straightforward: reviving the warrior spirit, reinvigorating our armed forces, and reinforcing deterrence. Reviving the warrior spirit is number one — it’s the most essential of the three. Everything begins and concludes with soldiers in training and those engaged in combat. We are moving past identity politics and frailty, and redirecting our focus toward effectiveness, fairness, responsibility, discipline, and preparedness.

What Others Are Saying

Defense officials and experts have indicated that the meeting might signal reductions not only in the ranks of senior military officers but also in civilian and contractor positions at bases around the globe. Some suggest it could point to a decrease in the U.S. military presence in Europe and the Middle East, aligning with a anticipated national defense strategy that focuses on protecting the homeland after years of attention on the Indo-Pacific region and China.

In May, Hegseth issued an order to reduce the number of approximately 100 generals and admirals, as well as implement a “minimum” 20% decrease for four-star officers. He also mandated an extra 10% cut among general and flag officers throughout the military. The secretary referred to these cuts as part of his “fewer generals, more GIs initiative.”

As per Hegseth, there are currently 44 four-star and flag officers within the military, resulting in a ratio of one general for every 1,400 soldiers, whereas during World War II, the ratio was one general for every 6,000 troops.

What does “esprit de corps” mean?

Dig deeper

Esprit de corps” is a French expression that literally means “spirit of the body.

It is utilized in the United States to signify “the shared spirit found among group members that fosters enthusiasm, dedication, and a strong sense of honor for the group,” as defined by Merriam-Webster. Within a military context, it refers to the morale of soldiers.

The post Trump, Hegseth to Meet Military Leaders in Virginia: Key Details appeared first on FondTimes.