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Images captured by media outlets of U.S. National Guard soldiers who "appeared to be overweight" sparked widespread criticism after their arrival in Chicago as part of an expanded security campaign. The photos, which spread like wildfire, showed the soldiers disembarking from a military truck, wearing their uniforms and carrying rifles and bags, but what stood out was the size of their bodies.

Hegseth Responds Immediately

U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth did not delay in his reaction, announcing on platform X: "Standards have returned to the Department of War," referring to the replacement of soldiers who did not adhere to fitness standards. These soldiers were among 200 personnel sent from Texas to Chicago at Trump's request to bolster security.

Online Mockery

Social media quickly filled with sarcastic comments, describing the soldiers as "Team Six Meals" and "Green Buffets," amid questions about the usefulness of sending soldiers who do not appear to be in suitable physical condition for field missions.

Strict Standards

This incident comes at a time when Hegseth is imposing new, stricter standards on soldiers regarding weight, height, and overall fitness. He had previously expressed his frustration, stating: "It's exhausting to look at formations and see overweight soldiers. It's a bad sight."

Immediate Exclusion

For its part, the Texas Department of Defense clarified that the rapid deployment of troops (in less than 24 hours) meant that the verification of adherence to standards occurred later, revealing that some personnel did not meet the requirements. They were returned to their units and replaced with other qualified personnel.