Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard made a high-impact visit to Camp MacKall and Fort Bragg in North Carolina on Friday, meeting with U.S. Army Special Forces and military intelligence leaders. The visit focused on strengthening collaboration between national intelligence and military operations to enhance national security.
Gabbard began the day with a rigorous early morning workout alongside 50 Special Forces warfighters. The session included sandbag burpees, kettle bell swings, planks, and more, reflecting the physical demands of the elite troops. Joe Kent, President Donald Trump’s nominee for Director of the National Counter Terrorism Center, also participated and praised Gabbard’s leadership.
Following the workout, Gabbard had breakfast with troops in the mess hall before joining a leadership development course. Addressing a group of Special Forces trainers and candidates, she acknowledged the unique commitment of the warfighters. “You’ve chosen this life because you want to do hard things,” she said. “You want to be at the tip of the spear.”
Gabbard emphasized the trust and autonomy President Trump has extended to his cabinet. “He empowers us to lead, make decisions, solve problems, and deliver results,” she said, contrasting his leadership style with prior administrations.
Later in the day, Gabbard attended a Change of Command ceremony for the 1st Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group at Fort Bragg. She concluded her visit at the U.S. Army Special Operations Command, meeting with senior leaders and speaking with students in training.
Gabbard told the next generation of Special Operations leaders that their small teams can have strategic, national-level impact. “Take the responsibility, not with fear, but with excitement and with courage,” she urged.
