Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has sent a message loud and clear to the Pentagon’s top brass, letting them know it’s time to start phasing out service members who identify as transgender. In a video shared on X with the caption “TRANS is out at the DOD,” Hegseth emphasized, “This is what the American people voted for.”
Hegseth’s memo gives active-duty transgender-identifying service members until June 6 to voluntarily separate from the military. Reservists have until July 7 to do the same. Those choosing to leave can receive voluntary separation pay.
After this window closes, any service members diagnosed with or having a history of gender dysphoria will be discharged. The Pentagon had reported back in February that there were 4,240 troops diagnosed with gender dysphoria, though the actual number might be higher.
Sean Parnell, the Pentagon’s chief spokesman, mentioned that approximately 1,000 service members have identified themselves as having gender dysphoria. These individuals will begin the separation process voluntarily.
Hegseth’s memo referenced President Donald Trump’s Executive Order 14183, which prioritizes military excellence and readiness. The memo stated that expressing a gender identity different from one’s biological sex fails to meet the necessary standards for military service.
Trump’s policy emphasizes that the military must maintain high standards for readiness, cohesion, and integrity. The accommodations and health issues faced by gender-dysphoric individuals are seen as incompatible with these standards.
Hegseth’s memo followed the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to temporarily stay a lower court’s injunction against Trump’s transgender military ban. This stay is pending the government’s appeal before the Ninth Circuit Court.
The three liberal justices on the Supreme Court expressed that they would have denied the Trump administration’s request for a stay in U.S. v. Shilling. Activist groups like Lambda Legal and the Human Rights Campaign Foundation have criticized the stay, calling it a setback for transgender service members.
These groups argue that the policy has more to do with prejudice than military readiness. The criticism hasn’t swayed the administration, which views the policy as a step towards strengthening military standards.
In response to the Supreme Court’s decision, Hegseth gave a speech declaring, “We are leaving wokeness and weakness behind.” He emphasized a shift away from focusing on pronouns and other progressive issues.
The Pentagon’s official account on X echoed Hegseth’s sentiments, stating, “No more pronouns. No more drag shows. No more dudes in dresses. NO MORE TRANS AT THE DOD.”
Beyond just readiness, these policy changes might also lead to financial savings. The military has reportedly spent $52 million on medical expenses related to transgender service members since 2015.
These expenses include treatments such as hormone therapy and surgeries. The New York Times highlighted these costs as part of the ongoing debate over the policy.
The administration’s stance remains clear: the focus is on military effectiveness and preparedness. The policy aims to streamline and strengthen the military by adhering to traditional standards.
While the debate continues, the administration is unwavering in its direction. The military is expected to align with these newly reinforced standards of excellence and integrity.
As the separation process begins, the military is set to stay committed to its core values. This move is seen as a return to focusing on the essentials for a strong defense force.
The policy has sparked discussions across various platforms, with strong opinions on both sides. However, the administration maintains its course towards reinforcing military readiness.
The changes are poised to impact many service members, prompting a reevaluation of military policies. As the situation develops, the focus remains on maintaining a robust and prepared military force.
This decision marks a significant moment in the administration’s efforts to prioritize military capability. The focus is shifting back to traditional values and standards within the armed forces.
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