The Pentagon has categorically denied an NBC News report suggesting defense officials are planning a recruitment campaign linked to the recent assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
According to Fox News, Pentagon press secretary Kingsley Wilson described the NBC story as completely inaccurate and based on unreliable anonymous sources. Wilson emphasized that no such initiative exists within the Department of War's recruitment efforts.
The report emerged amid heightened attention to Kirk's death, which has drawn widespread political response. Officials noted the story's timing coincides with ongoing memorial preparations for the Turning Point USA founder.
Kirk's Assassination Sparks National Mourning
Charlie Kirk, the influential founder of Turning Point USA, was assassinated earlier this month, prompting tributes from conservative leaders. His organization focuses on promoting conservative values among young people, making his loss a significant blow to that movement.
Kirk's casket was transported on Air Force Two to Arizona for a memorial service attended by high-profile figures. President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth are among those scheduled to participate in the event.
The assassination has fueled discussions about political violence and its impact on youth engagement. Democratic strategist Doug Schoen highlighted Kirk's role in shifting young voters toward Trump in recent analyses.
NBC Report Details Alleged Recruitment Plans
NBC News, in an article by reporter Courtney Kube, cited two unnamed officials claiming discussions were underway for a new military recruitment strategy. The proposed campaign would frame service as a national call inspired by Kirk's legacy, according to the sources.
Potential slogans mentioned in the report included phrases like "Charlie has awakened a generation of warriors." Officials reportedly considered using Turning Point USA chapters as recruitment centers to reach conservative youth.
Some defense personnel allegedly expressed concerns that tying the effort to Kirk's death could appear exploitative. The story portrayed the idea as still in early talks led by Undersecretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness Anthony Tata.
Pentagon Officials Fire Back at Media Claims
Pentagon press secretary Kingsley Wilson told Fox News Digital the NBC account was "100% wrong." He criticized the network for relying on anonymous sources unfamiliar with the Department of War's actual recruitment task force activities.
Wilson stated, "This is not happening, yet Fake News NBC published this report as if it were true using anonymous sources with no knowledge of what the recruitment task force at DOW is working on." The denial underscores the Pentagon's frustration with what it sees as fabricated narratives.
Chief spokesman Sean Parnell echoed this in an official statement provided to NBC. Parnell accused media outlets of inventing stories to discredit the Trump administration's military successes.
Administration Highlights Recruitment Successes
Parnell praised the current leadership for boosting enlistments under President Trump and Secretary Hegseth. He said, "Under the strong leadership of President Trump and Secretary Hegseth, men and women are coming out in droves to serve this great nation."
The statement suggested the media's alleged lies stem from desperation to undermine positive developments in defense. Pentagon officials pointed to existing recruitment gains as evidence against the need for controversial new approaches.
This response aligns with broader administration efforts to counter perceived media bias. It comes amid other controversies, including a reported Pentagon crackdown on anti-Kirk social media posts reminiscent of past extremism initiatives.
