Trump touts military achievements and recruitment boost at Fort Bragg

FORT BRAGG, NC: Trump addressed service members at Fort Bragg on Friday, February 13, delivering remarks focused on military strength, recruitment gains, and what he described as a renewed emphasis on combat readiness.

Speaking before troops at one of the Army’s largest installations, Trump praised service members for their role in maintaining what he called the world’s strongest fighting force.

He used the visit to underscore policy shifts implemented under his administration, arguing that the military is now focused squarely on operational capability.

“We ended the scourge of political correctness in our military,” Trump said, asserting that the armed forces are now positioned as a “real force” prepared to meet global threats.

Army hits 116% of recruitment target 

A key focus of Trump's address was recruitment across the armed services. He highlighted that the Navy, Air Force, and Space Force exceeded their recruitment targets five months ahead of schedule last year.

He said the Army has outpaced them all, currently exceeding its recruitment goal by 116%.

The President attributed the surge in enlistment to renewed confidence in military leadership and strength. He pointed to recent US operations in Iran and Venezuela as demonstrations of capability, stating, “We have the strongest military in the world, by far.”

Trump credited service members for that standing and said rising enlistment numbers reflect public confidence in the armed services' mission and direction.

Merit restored as sole factor in promotions

Trump also addressed changes to military personnel policies, saying merit is now the “sole consideration” in recruitment and promotion decisions.

He framed the move as a return to performance-based advancement, emphasizing standards tied to readiness and capability.

“You want to get into the military? You gotta have a little muscle. You gotta be strong,” Trump said, referencing physical fitness expectations for recruits.

Looking at troops assembled at Fort Bragg, he described them as looking like “central casting,” highlighting what he said were high standards now required for service. 

Historic pay raise and housing investment

The President also focused on financial measures included in what he called the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” which he said provides an across-the-board pay raise for service members.

Trump described the increase as “well-deserved,” drawing applause from the audience.

In addition to pay adjustments, he said the legislation allocates more than $1 billion toward improving military housing nationwide, with a significant portion directed to Fort Bragg.

The investment is intended to ensure that housing conditions reflect the dedication and service of military personnel.

Trump concluded by reaffirming that his administration remains committed to strengthening the armed forces through recruitment achievements, structural reforms, and financial reforms and sustained financial support.