UK Defence Secretary congratulates Army veteran as 29th US Defense Secretary
The UK Defence Secretary has congratulated his US counterpart on his appointment as former US Army officer Pete Hegseth secures Senate approval.
The US Department of Defense confirmed the Honorable Pete Hegseth as the 29th secretary following a close Senate vote of 51-50.
Secretary Hegseth served as an infantry officer in the US Army National Guard and served overseas in Guantanamo Bay, Iraq and Afghanistan.
UK Defence Secretary John Healey said: "Congratulations Pete Hegseth on your appointment as US Secretary Defense.
"For generations, British and American forces have stood together as the closest of allies.
"I look forward to working with you as we face down rising threats to freedom and democracy."
Mr Hegseth will be sworn in as the Secretary of Defense on the morning of 25 January by Vice President and US Marine Corps veteran JD Vance at the White House.
During his career in the military, Mr Hegseth was awarded two Bronze Stars, the Joint Commendation Medal, two Army Commendation Medals, the Combat Infantryman Badge (CIB) and the Expert Infantryman Badge (EIB).
President Donald Trump said in an interview: "I think Pete is going to be a great Secretary of Defense.
"We're honoured to have him."
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