Generals who were flown from across the world to attend the meeting with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Tuesday said there was no point in doing it, with one calling it a "waste of money.".
"More like a press conference than briefing the generals," another attendee told Politico.
A third called it a "total waste of money.".
Hegseth discussed steps he is taking to implement what he described as the "warrior ethos," also telling generals that they must adhere to grooming and physical fitness standards.
He also dismissed the notion that upholding these standards are signs of a "toxic" leader.
It is our duty, consistent with our constitutional oath," he said during a passage of the speech.
Asked for comment, Pentagon spokesperson San Parnell said "this might be the stupidest request we have received to date. »
