The defense secretary, speaking to the Pentagon work force, defended his “unconventional approaches” to an audience that included women and people of color.

"I think the single dumbest phrase in military history is our diversity is our strength," Hegseth told the audience, adding under his watch "we will treat everyone with fairness."

"I think the single dumbest phrase in military history is, 'Our diversity is our strength. I think our strength is our unity," he said. Hegseth continued: "Our strength is our shared purpose, regardless of our background,