You Knew DEI in the Military Was Wrong. Just Let It D-I-E.

In the unforgiving crucible of combat, clarity reigns supreme. The mission is paramount, and the only colors that matter are camouflage and the red, white, and blue. Over the past decade, however, the U.S. military found itself entangled in a web of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives that, while well-intentioned, diverted focus from its core objective: warfighting excellence.

The Rise and Fall of DEI in the Ranks

DEI programs infiltrated military formations from top to bottom, aiming to address historical inequities and promote inclusivity. Yet, these initiatives often prioritized identity over merit, leading to perceptions of preferential treatment and undermining the principle of equal opportunity. For instance, adjustments to fitness standards to accommodate certain groups raised concerns about compromising combat readiness .

Critics of DEI argue that such measures diluted the meritocratic ethos essential to military effectiveness. The emphasis on demographic representation sometimes overshadowed individual capability, potentially eroding trust within units and affecting morale.

…and they were right. We all knew that the whole “present racism to remedy past racism” approach was toxic in a values-based organization based on trust and meritocracy. It just took us all until now to admit it.

A Strategic Pivot Back to Meritocracy

Recognizing the potential pitfalls of DEI-centric policies, the Department of Defense initiated a course correction. In 2025, directives were issued to eliminate considerations of race, ethnicity, or sex in military academy admissions, emphasizing a return to merit-based evaluations. Additionally, educational materials promoting divisive concepts were ordered removed from military institutions.

Those actions represent a good start down the road of returning the military to its core functions. They signaled a commitment to refocusing on the military’s primary mission: preparing for and engaging in combat operations with the highest level of proficiency.

Reaffirming Core Military Values

The essence of military service lies in unity, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to the mission. While diversity in backgrounds and perspectives can enhance problem-solving and adaptability, it should not come at the expense of cohesion and operational effectiveness.

By moving away from DEI programs that emphasize differences, the military aims to foster an environment where all service members are evaluated based on their abilities, performance, and dedication. This approach seeks to strengthen the bonds of trust and mutual respect that are vital in high-stakes situations.

Conclusion

The military’s reassessment of DEI initiatives reflects a broader understanding that, while inclusivity is important, it must not compromise the foundational principles that ensure combat readiness and effectiveness. As the armed forces navigate complex global challenges, a steadfast focus on merit and unity will be crucial in maintaining their unparalleled strength and resilience.

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Scott is a veteran of a half-dozen combat deployments and has served in several different Special Operations units over the course of his Army career. Scott’s writing focuses largely on veterans’ issues, but he is also a big proponent of Constitutional rights and has a deep interest in politics. He often allows other veterans who request anonymity to publish their work under his byline. Scott welcomes story ideas and feedback on his articles and can be reached at havokjournal@havokmedia.com.