Hegseth Shares Video Message About Veteran Home Giveaway at Defender of Freedom Gala

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth delivered a video message at the Defender of Freedom Gala in Virginia’s Pentagon City last week, fondly recalling a cold morning in Minnesota years ago when he helped deliver joy to a veteran and his family. The Washington Times reported that Hegseth was part of “Fox & Friends,” a Fox News program, when Freedom Alliance asked him to help give away a mortgage-free home to the man.

Hegseth said he watched as the veteran’s kids ran through the house.

He added that it was the first house the family had ever owned. “Programs like these from Freedom Alliance transform lives,” Hegseth said in the recorded remarks played at the gala. The organization helps military service members and veterans.

Before assuming his role at the Pentagon, Hegseth had participated in the home giveaway organized by Freedom Alliance. The cold Minnesota morning left a lasting impression, one he chose to share with attendees at the annual event held in Pentagon City. The Defender of Freedom Gala occurred last week relative to Friday’s publication.

Hegseth’s video message formed part of the program honoring service members and the groups that support them. Hegseth’s recollection highlighted the tangible impact of such programs. He described the scene of children running through their new home as the family took possession of a property that was theirs outright for the first time.

The Washington Times reported the details of Hegseth’s message on Friday. His comments drew a direct line between his earlier work with veterans and his current responsibilities as Defense Secretary.