Pentagon says diversity training essential in ‘defending the nation’

The Pentagon defended the military’s diversity and inclusion training programs amid a torrent of criticism, saying they are essential for recruiting the “right people” in its duty to defend the nation.​

"We certainly respect the oversight that Congress provides. I’m not going to comment on any specific one initiative that members of Congress might be doing​," Kirby said. "What I can speak to is what we’re really focused on here at the department and that’s defending the nation. And that means putting in place the right resources, the right strategies, the right operational concepts to do that, around the world.​" Kirby said the military needs "good people" to keep warships, aircraft and other military systems operating efficiently.