CQ Brown’s op-ed is the hypocritical parting shot of a fired officer who served as a loyal foot soldier for one of the most politicized eras in U.S. military history.
Under the prior administration, Brown helped champion divisive COVID-19 vaccine mandates that purged thousands of capable service members, stood by as mandatory DEI ideology trainings were established that elevated identity over merit, and was silent when “extremism” stand-downs that functioned as witch hunts against conservatives took place. These actions eroded readiness, morale, and trust while turning the Pentagon into a vehicle for social engineering.
For him to now decry politicization rings hollow. Secretary Hegseth has restored an apolitical warrior ethos by eliminating DEI bureaucracies, refocusing leaders on lethality and standards, and empowering commanders to prioritize combat excellence over ideology, delivering the merit-based, mission-focused military our nation demands.