President Donald Trump’s recent announcement of a pay increase for all members of the U.S. Armed Forces has generated significant enthusiasm, showcasing the administration’s commitment to military personnel. This declaration was made aboard the USS George Washington in Yokosuka, Japan, during a visit with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who has often been likened to Trump for her conservative views.

Trump’s exuberant speech emphasized his “Peace Through Strength” policy, a central theme of his administration. “I’m also supporting an across-the-board pay raise for every sailor and service member in the United States Armed Forces,” he stated, drawing raucous applause from the assembled audience. The applause reflects a strong appreciation for his acknowledgment of the sacrifices made by the military. The president expressed confidence that the bipartisan push for pay raises would gain Democratic support, saying, “But they’ll come along. They always do.”

In addition to advocating for higher pay, Trump took a firm stance against what he termed the “toxic woke agenda” tied to the previous administration, asserting it detracted from military effectiveness. He made it clear that his administration prioritizes meritocracy, stating, “All future admissions [to military academies] will be exclusively on merit.” This marked a decisive shift towards a traditional understanding of qualifications in military service, emphasizing that factors like race, ethnicity, or sex should not influence admissions.

In his speech, Trump highlighted the need for a return to decisive military action, declaring, “When it comes to defending the United States, we’re no longer politically correct.” He expressed a clear determination to win wars decisively, stressing, “From now on, if we’re in a war, we’re going to win the war.” This message resonates with those who favor a robust military strategy focused on achieving clear victories rather than indecision.

Toward the end of his remarks, Trump echoed the principles of American exceptionalism, likening the nation’s military strength to the legacy of its first commander-in-chief, George Washington. He quoted Washington’s historic words about the Navy, framing America as continuously “first in war, first in peace,” and bolstering the notion that the country stands as a leader across various domains including wealth, power, and freedom.

Trump’s speech not only called for increased military funding and proper recognition of service members but also positioned these elements within a narrative of restoring America’s greatness. His assertion that, “We went through four bad years, but now America will always be first again,” reflects a blend of patriotic fervor and confidence in future leadership.

This rallying cry for strengthening military capabilities aligns with the sentiments of a significant portion of American society that values national pride and a strong defense posture. It shows an administration willing to reshape military culture and compensate its soldiers more generously, thereby emphasizing the idea that a strong military is crucial for a strong nation.