Military tattoos mystery: Former Fox host gets unexpected nomination from Trump
A former National Guard officer with religious tattoos becomes Trumps pick for defense secretary. His past military service ended after his body-art sparked security concerns during Bidenʼs inauguration prep
In a non-standard move this Nov‚ Pete Hegseth got Trumps nomination for defense secretary position‚ bringing attention to his past military-service controversy
Three years back a high-ranking D.C National Guard officer sent an eye-catching email to his commander about Hegseths religious tattoos. The message pointed-out Latin inscription “Deus Vult“ and Jerusalem Cross markings that made some folks nervous (due to their complex historical meaning)
99.99% I know why you were told not to report‚ because someone identified a Jerusalem cross tattoo you have on your chest as an extremist tattoo
The ex-military man and Fox news host has quite a background: serving in hot-spots like Afghanistan Iraq and Guantanamo Bay earning two Bronze Stars. However his military career took an unexpected turn when he got pulled from Guard duty before Bidenʼs inauguration
Hegseth wasnt alone in this situation: the Pentagon removed several Guard members during pre-inauguration checks. The vetting process looked at various factors including:
- Text messages content
- Tip line reports
- Possible extremist connections
- Background screening results
DeRicko Gaither‚ who first raised concerns says he just did his job as security chief. Meanwhile expert Heidi Beirich suggests the tattoos could simply show religious beliefs even though some groups use these symbols differently
Now as defense secretary nominee Hegseth might reshape military policies especially regarding diversity programs that dont align with his views. His nomination shows how a past security-review incident turned into a career-defining moment that changed his outlook on todays military
