The DSR Network FTA: Former Generals React to Trump-Hegseth Quantico Speeches
Dec 30, 2025
Join former U.S. Army Lieutenant Generals Mark Hertling and Doug Lute as they weigh in on Trump and Hegseth’s Quantico rally. Hertling critiques the unprofessional tone while Lute compares the rhetoric to a military pep talk. The conversation dives into the dangers of recent training proposals and the potential militarization of domestic policy. They warn against a narrow focus on national defense, stressing the importance of maintaining civil-military norms to uphold democratic accountability.
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Professional Restraint In The Ranks
- The audience at Quantico showed professional restraint and adherence to oath despite provocative speeches.
- Mark Hertling highlighted that enlisted leaders' "high level of bullshit detection" kept discipline intact.
Platoon Pep Talk Versus Rally
- Doug Lute imagined two vignettes: a platoon-level pep talk and a partisan campaign rally felt by officers.
- He noted most flag officers remained subdued and disciplined despite discomfort.
Comedy Masking A Dangerous Message
- Ed Luce found the event both comic and terrifying because of its message about a domestic "enemy within."
- He warned the speech's underlying message was alarming despite its theatrical elements.