Hundreds of veterans, spearheaded by two former Navy SEALs, are converging on Washington, D.C. next week to demonstrate their support for Pete Hegseth's confirmation as Secretary of Defense. Hegseth's confirmation hearing before the Senate Armed Services Committee is scheduled for Tuesday.

Organizers Bill Brown and Rob Sweetman aim to fill the hearing room with as many veterans as possible, with supporters lining up outside the building hours before the 9:30 a.m. start time. Brown and Sweetman's connection with Hegseth stems from his involvement in the annual New York City SEAL Swim, an event organized by Brown. A contingent of veterans will also gather at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial at 9 a.m. to march to the hearing, encouraged to carry American flags.

Sweetman, whose organization 62Romeo assists veterans with sleep issues after their military service, emphasized the impact of a physical show of support, saying, "There's real power in a physical presence, beyond just online activity." He anticipates at least 100 SEALs and hundreds more veterans participating.

Brown cited widespread dissatisfaction among military personnel with current Pentagon leadership as a driving force behind the demonstration. Jurandir "J" Araujo, Hegseth's commanding officer during his 2004 deployment at Guantanamo Bay, shared his early impressions of Hegseth, praising his dedication to both the mission and his troops. Araujo recounted telling colleagues that Hegseth had the potential to become president one day, nicknaming him "double-A" for "all-American."

Hegseth's nomination has faced scrutiny due to allegations of excessive drinking and inappropriate conduct towards women, including a resurfaced 2017 police report detailing a sexual assault allegation, which Hegseth vehemently denies. His past remarks against women serving in combat roles have also drawn criticism, as have concerns about his experience level, having retired as a Major.

The veterans rallying for Hegseth remain steadfast in their support. Araujo affirmed his belief in Hegseth's integrity, while Brown echoed Hegseth's views on women in combat, prioritizing combat effectiveness. Both Brown and Sweetman expressed their outrage over the Afghanistan withdrawal and the Pentagon's repeated audit failures, hoping Hegseth will address these issues. They seek accountability for the Afghanistan withdrawal and a reduction in Pentagon spending waste.

Angelo Martinez, who served under Hegseth in Cuba, lauded Hegseth's egalitarian approach to leadership and genuine care for his soldiers. Martinez, a Staff Sergeant with 21 years of service, contrasted Hegseth's leadership style with other officers who he felt looked down upon enlisted personnel. He expressed confidence in Hegseth's suitability for the role, believing his rank of Major, rather than Colonel or General, allows him to remain connected with the troops.