FORT CAMPBELL, KENTUCKY February 20, 2026 – U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth returned today to the ranks of the elite Rakkasans — the storied 187th Infantry Regiment of the 101st Airborne Division — where he once served as an infantry platoon leader.
In a moving post on X, Secretary Hegseth shared:
“Today, I returned to my old unit—the Rakkasans—at Fort Campbell. These warriors represent the best of our nation. Let Valor Not Fail.”
The post was accompanied by video footage capturing the Secretary’s time with the troops, highlighting the enduring bond between America’s military leadership and the soldiers who defend the nation.
The Rakkasans, nicknamed during World War II for their parachute assaults (from the Japanese word “rakkasan” meaning “falling umbrella”), have a proud combat legacy spanning multiple wars. Their official motto — “Ne Desit Virtus (Let Valor Not Fail) — was proudly echoed by Secretary Hegseth in his message.
According to the Department of War schedule, the Secretary participated in physical training with soldiers from 2nd Platoon, Charlie Company, 3-187th Infantry Regiment before addressing the broader Rakkasan formation. Hegseth, a combat veteran with deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, used the visit to reinforce the Department’s focus on warrior culture, readiness, and direct engagement with the force.
“These warriors represent the best of our nation,” Hegseth stated, underscoring the pride and gratitude felt by service members and veterans across the country.
This visit comes as the Trump administration continues to prioritize strengthening America’s military might and honoring those who wear the uniform.
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