Last Updated: 22 Jan, 2025 | Views: 1501
Age: 44
Profession: Journalist
Other Profession(s): Politician, Author, Television Presenter, Army Officer
Famous For: United States Secretary of Defense
Higher Education: Princeton University (BA), Harvard University (MPP)
About (Profile/Biography):
Pete Hegseth is an American television host and author, best known for co-hosting Fox & Friends Weekend. Born on June 6, 1980, in Forest Lake, Minnesota, he graduated from Princeton University and Harvard University's John F. Kennedy School of Government. A former military officer, Pete served in the U.S. Army National Guard, including deployments to Cuba, Iraq, and Afghanistan.
Pete Hegseth’s Military Career
• The Former Army Major showcased exceptional leadership during Operation Iraqi Freedom, earning a Bronze Star Medal and Combat Infantryman Badge for his courageous service in Baghdad and Samarra.
• Pete led counter-insurgency operations in Guantanamo Bay as part of the Minnesota National Guard's 3rd Brigade Combat Team, demonstrating strategic expertise in complex military environments.
• The Princeton graduate commanded troops during Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, where his unit conducted security operations and trained Afghan National Security Forces.
Pete Hegseth’s Media Journey
• The Fox News veteran began his media career as a Fox News contributor in 2014, rapidly rising to prominence for his candid political commentary and military expertise.
• The outspoken host earned widespread recognition for his unique style of interviewing on Fox & Friends Weekend, where he consistently draws millions of viewers each broadcast.
• This Army veteran transitioned from battlefield to broadcasting, authoring multiple books including "Modern Warriors" and "American Crusade" that became national bestsellers.
Awards and Recognition received by Pete Hegseth
• The decorated veteran received the Bronze Star Medal for his meritorious service during combat operations in Iraq.
• Pete earned the prestigious Army Commendation Medal for his exceptional leadership and dedication during multiple overseas deployments.
• The media personality was awarded the National Guard's Valley Forge Cross for Heroism during his service in Afghanistan.
Lesser-Known Facts about Pete Hegseth
• The former soldier actually studied Political Science at Princeton and wrote his thesis on American war doctrine before joining the military.
• Pete competed as a Division I varsity athlete in Princeton's wrestling program, maintaining an impressive academic record while competing at the highest collegiate level.
• The television host once worked as a civilian contractor teaching leadership skills to Saudi Arabian military officers before joining Fox News.
Controversies around Pete Hegseth
• The media personality sparked debate in 2019 when he admitted on air that he hadn't washed his hands in 10 years, claiming "germs aren't real" - later stating it was a joke.
• Pete faced criticism for calling medal of honor recipient Captain Florent Groberg "Captain Flo" during an interview, which many viewed as disrespectful to the decorated veteran.