A New Era for West Point: Shifting Military Focus

The United States Military Academy at West Point saw a significant event in 2025. A high-ranking official praised the graduating cadets and took the opportunity to highlight changes in U. S. military policy. The speaker emphasized the strength of the U. S. military, attributing its current power to recent rebuilding efforts. This was the first time in a while that this person had spoken at a military graduation ceremony. The speech also touched on the shift in U. S. foreign policy. The speaker criticized past political leaders for involving the military in missions that were not originally intended. The speaker argued that these missions were a waste of time, money, and lives. The speaker claimed that these kinds of missions are no longer happening. The speaker also mentioned that the military is now focused on its core mission: defending the country and its interests. The speech came at a time when West Point was implementing new policies. In 2020, some graduates had asked for anti-racism training to be included in the curriculum. However, recent executive orders have banned diversity, equity, and inclusion programs in the military. As a result, West Point has disbanded several cadet clubs focused on race and gender. The speaker praised these changes, stating that they would allow the military to focus on its core mission. The speaker also touted a new record in peacetime recruiting. However, experts suggest that this increase is more likely due to recruitment reforms introduced during a previous administration. The speaker's address followed a similar speech by a high-ranking official at the U. S. Naval Academy. This official also emphasized the administration's shift in foreign policy. The graduating class included cadets from around the world. These international cadets came from countries like Kosovo, Qatar, and Poland. The ceremony marked a new chapter for West Point and the U. S. military. It remains to be seen how these changes will impact the military and its operations.