U.S. President Donald Trump was reportedly left unsettled after receiving a muted reception from senior military leaders during a gathering in Quantico, Virginia, according to a retired American general.
Appearing on MSNBC’s Morning Joe, Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.), now a military analyst, said that Trump, who addressed the event alongside Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, appeared uncomfortable when his speech drew little reaction from the audience.
Hertling described the remarks as “meandering”, highlighting Trump’s references to a so-called “war from within” and his proposal to place soldiers on U.S. streets to train against domestic threats.
“President Trump thrives on applause and cheering and interactions with an audience,” Hertling explained. “And when he didn’t get that and instead got quiet professionalism from the soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines in the audience, that likely rattled him from the very beginning.”
He emphasised that the silence was not intended as disrespect, but as a reflection of discipline and adherence to the military oath of office.
“It was a collective reminder of our professional culture that transcends politics,” Hertling said. “It was on full display, and it was interesting to watch from both sides of the audience.”
The comments come as Trump continues to face scrutiny over his relationship with the U.S. military and his rhetoric on national security.
