WASHINGTON, D.C. — Last week marked two hundred days into President Donald J. Trump’s second term, and the Pentagon is moving with unapologetic speed to reshape the U.S. military — from the battlefield to the border, from historical preservation to a renewed emphasis on American power projection.
Pentagon Press Secretary Kingsley Wilson, in the department’s Weekly Sitrep, hailed the period as one of “unprecedented impact” for both service members and national defense.
“In 200 days, the department has made an unprecedented impact not only for our warfighters, but in strengthening the United States military to be the most lethal fighting force in the world,” Wilson said.
“Under the steadfast leadership of President Trump and Secretary Hegseth, recruitment is soaring, the department is prioritizing American drone dominance, we’re refocused on standards and the United States military remains unmatched in its capabilities,” Wilson added.
Fort Bliss to Become Largest Federal Detention Center
Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas — a sprawling installation home to more than 90,000 soldiers and family members — will assume a new mission: hosting what will be the largest federal detention center in U.S. history.
“Secretary Hegseth approved [Department of Homeland Security] access and use of the land at Fort Bliss, Texas — where DOD is focused on developing the detention center at Fort Bliss,” Wilson said. “Once completed, this will be the largest federal detention center in history for this critical mission, the deportation of illegal aliens.”
Construction, which began in July, will start with a capacity of 1,000 detainees and expand to 5,000 at a later date.
Reconciliation Monument to Return to Arlington
Another headline decision involves the return of the Reconciliation Monument to Arlington National Cemetery.
“Secretary Hegseth … announced that Moses Ezekiel’s beautiful and historic sculpture … will be rightfully returned to Arlington National Cemetery near his burial site,” Wilson said. “Like the secretary said, ‘We don’t believe in erasing American history — we honor it.’”
The Army expects the project to be completed in 2027 after a complete refurbishment.
SkillBridge Targets Border Security Agencies
“For service members transitioning out of the military, your mission to protect the homeland can continue,” Wilson said. “We’d like to introduce you to DOD SkillBridge, which is a program for service members to continue serving through civilian work at ICE and CBP. Your skills are needed to carry out the president’s vision to protect the border and protect Americans here at home.”
Wilson noted that military departments will encourage those considering SkillBridge to seek opportunities with ICE or CBP, allowing DHS to “recruit the best and brightest personnel” for the southern border mission.
Honoring Valor: Purple Heart Day
“Here at the department, we honor the courage and sacrifice of all Purple Heart recipients,” Wilson said. “The Purple Heart is the nation’s oldest military award, and we reflect on the valor of the men and women who have given so much for our freedom. We continue to honor their legacy and extend our gratitude for their unwavering service.”
“We are grateful for their selfless service,” Hegseth said. “We will never forget their heroism, and we strive to possess their courage.”
Fort Stewart Shooting
“The department and Secretary Hegseth would like to extend our prayers to the five service members who were wounded in a cowardly shooting at Fort Stewart,” Wilson said. “We are relieved that all five victims of the attack are in stable condition. We would also like to give our profound gratitude to the soldiers who charged into danger and subdued the shooter, potentially saving countless lives.”
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