Fort Bliss officials confirmed that U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth was visiting the Borderland on Monday.

After being sworn-in by Vice President JD Vance, the Pentagon’s new leader addressed the Defense Department’s three million employees.

"It was an honor to meet the troops engaged in securing our southern border. They are the backbone of our nation’s security. Their dedication to service and unequaled courage safeguard the freedoms we hold dear. We are grateful for all you and your family's sacrifice," Hegseth wrote Monday afternoon.