US Defense Secretary Hegseth launches Send Me Tour in Texas

U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth began the first leg of his “Send Me Tour” on Monday in Texas, arriving at Joint Base San Antonio to meet with service members, local officials and community leaders. The tour, announced last month, is intended to showcase the department’s ongoing initiatives and to reinforce the military’s presence in key domestic regions. During his visit, Hegseth toured a newly upgraded armored vehicle training facility, inspected a fleet of unmanned aerial systems, and held a briefing on the department’s readiness posture amid heightened geopolitical tensions.

The Texas stop comes as the United States faces growing domestic criticism over its involvement in the escalating conflict with Iran, where recent skirmishes have sparked debate over the scope of American military engagement abroad. Officials accompanying Hegseth emphasized that the tour aims to maintain transparency, reassure allies, and highlight the Defense Department’s commitment to both national security and the welfare of service members. Hegseth concluded his Texas appearance by affirming the department’s focus on preparedness and by signaling that the remaining stops on the “Send Me Tour” will continue to address strategic concerns while engaging with local constituencies.