Longtime National Guard commander applauds sweeping changes in military

FARGO (KVRR) – A former North Dakota National Guard Adjutant General says it’s about time that the Pentagon shifts away from the policies of the past and refocuses on higher standards for the military.

Retired Major General Mike Haugen of Fargo says he’s a strong supporter of the sweeping changes being imposed by Secretary of War Pete Hegseth.

Haugen says military standards have been relaxed over the years, largely because politics was allowed to get in the way.

“It’s a good thing,” Haugen said. “There’s a definite attitude change from the DEI military.”

Haugen says the more stringent physical fitness standards going into effect are also necessary and says he supports them.

“You can’t just rely on technology to carry you through in war. We’ve gotten away from physical training, soft in several areas.”

Haugen adds that recruiting levels have recently gone “through the roof” in all branches of the military. He says the North Dakota Air National Guard is “more than 100 percent manned.”

Haugen spent nearly 40 years in the military. About 4,500 North Dakota Air and Army National Guard members were under his command.