Raider Soldiers Join Secretary of War for Early Morning Morale Call
Camp Hovey, Republic of Korea
At 0630 in the morning on 25 November, 2025, eighteen 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team Soldiers, known as “Raiders” began their morning with a rare opportunity- a live morale call with the Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth. The small group engagement offered Soldiers a direct line to senior national leadership and a moment to reflect on the importance of their mission on the Korean Peninsula.
The call opened with each soldier introducing themselves by name, hometown, and their role within the brigade. An exchange Hegseth said highlighted the backgrounds and experiences that form the strength of America’s Army.
Hegseth, who recently visited the Republic of Korea and toured the Demilitarized Zone, spoke candidly about the impact of standing on one of the most strategically significant borders in the world. He described the weight of that moment, emphasizing how it reaffirmed the necessity of a strong, capable rotational force.
Throughout the call, Hegseth underscored how much the nation depends on the rotational brigade positioned forward on the peninsula. He emphasized that the deterrence mission in Korea is not abstract policy, but a living, daily commitment carried out by Soldiers in the Field.
He also delivered a personal message from the President, noting that the Commander in Chief is proud of the brigade’s professionalism, and resilience in a demanding environment.
“The president loves his Soldiers,” Hegseth said. “And he’s proud of the work you’re doing, every day, field problem, and hour spent away from home”.
For all the Soldiers who joined the call, the conversation was a morale boost as the brigade continues its rotation in the Republic of Korea. It offered a reminder that their work done far from home and out of public view is recognized at the highest levels.
The Raider Brigade remains committed to its mission, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with Korean partners and maintaining readiness across the peninsula.