BALTIMORE, Md. — As soldiers and sailors around the world tuned in to watch the annual Army-Navy football game, senior military leaders packed the stands to be seen supporting the troops in public. Among them was Secretary of Defense (and also War) Pete Hegseth, who arrived at the stadium wearing full football pads and cleats, ready to play.

“The attention is great, but this game isn’t about me,” Hegseth told reporters while striding confidently toward midfield. “This is about taking a few snaps with the men — and other men — I’m about to send to Venezuela for some reason.”

While Cabinet secretaries are not typically seen dressed for contact sports, Hegseth has built a reputation for aggressively matching the vibe during official visits. Whether donning a Ranger Regiment shirt while jogging alongside actual Army Rangers in Normandy or wearing full aircrew gear on a VIP flight, Hegseth has carefully cultivated an Instagram brand centered on extremely committed cosplay.

“This is the kind of leader our warriors need and deserve,” said Pentagon Press Secretary Kingsley Williams. “Someone willing to dress like part of the team for a photo op, then immediately leave once it starts getting boring.”

Though his appearance surprised both cadets and midshipmen, officials confirmed the secretary’s attire was part of a coordinated effort that began weeks before the game.

“He sent a Signal message saying he needed a uniform with extra-tight sleeves, every bicep band we had, and that we were about to missile-strike a boat off the coast of Panama,” said Army equipment manager Mike Stevens. “He also made us fly in the woman who did the makeup for Friday Night Lights to handle his hair, blush, and custom eye black.”