In a bold move signaling a seismic shift in military policy, Defense Secretary Hegseth has taken decisive action to restore stringent medical standards for U.S. military recruits, effectively dismantling what he termed the “woke” policies of the previous administration. In a memorandum signed today, Hegseth announced a comprehensive review of disqualifying medical conditions, reversing controversial waivers that allowed individuals with serious health issues—including schizophrenia, congestive heart failure, and chronic oxygen dependency—to serve.

“High standards equal lethality,” Hegseth declared, emphasizing that applicants must be physically and mentally fit to endure the rigors of military service without jeopardizing their safety or that of their comrades. This initiative comes in response to what Hegseth described as a troubling trend under President Biden, where recruitment standards were lowered in a desperate bid to fill ranks.

The Defense Secretary’s memorandum instructs the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness to reevaluate existing medical guidelines, ensuring that only the most capable individuals are permitted to join the armed forces. “Service members need to be medically ready to fight,” he asserted, underscoring the urgency of the situation.

This sweeping reform is already drawing attention, with a notable increase in recruitment interest reported since the announcement of Hegseth’s policies. The move aims to restore the integrity of military standards that many believe are vital for national security. As the U.S. military braces for this pivotal transformation, the implications of Hegseth’s actions resonate deeply across the nation, marking a critical juncture in the fight for a more robust and effective military force.