President Donald Trump receives applause from the crowd with First Lady Melania Trump after finishing a speech at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, on February 13 (local time). 2026.2.13. [Screenshot from White House YouTube live broadcast]

U.S. President Donald Trump told troops at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, on February 13 (local time) that $1 trillion is being spent on the military this year, and that amount will increase next year.

The visit to the military base came on the same day he ordered the deployment of a second aircraft carrier strike group to the Middle East, targeting Iran.

Speaking to soldiers and their families at one of America's most iconic Army bases, Trump characterized the spending as part of his broader "peace through strength" policy, stating that the U.S. is rebuilding its military after years of weakening and "political correctness" (PC).

"Because of our strength, we will probably not have to use it," Trump said. "We are investing $1 trillion in our military this year, which is the largest amount ever, and it will be increased next year."

Trump's remarks came at a spirited event attended by senior military leaders and North Carolina Republican officials.

The President also celebrated the restoration of the name Fort Bragg and vehemently criticized Democrats who supported changing the military facility's name, making a pointed joke that the "radical left" would change the name again if Republicans lost the midterm elections.

Trump boasted about strong economic indicators, saying that Americans' retirement funds have benefited from his policies.

"Forget about the stock market," he said. "Your 401(k)s are doing very well."

The President claimed his administration has already addressed the recruitment and morale problems from former President Joe Biden's era.

Trump said enlistments have surged since his election victory and that there is now a "waiting list" in several branches.

After years of politically motivated policies, Trump pointed out that his administration has restored meritocracy as a criterion for promotions and personnel management.

"We have restored a system where only merit is considered," he said, adding that the Supreme Court has supported his stance. "Now, joining the military depends solely on merit."

Trump highlighted recent U.S. military operations abroad, particularly an attack on Iran's nuclear facilities, claiming to have "completely destroyed" Iran's nuclear capabilities. He credited stealth bombers and the flawless execution by U.S. pilots.

"No nation on Earth could have done what we have done," Trump said. "No nation has those weapons, and no nation has the incredible warriors that we have."

He also referenced a dramatic operation targeting the Venezuelan regime, praising the special forces for swift and decisive action against dictator Nicolás Maduro.

Months before that operation, Trump had visited Delta Force training at Fort Bragg and encouraged the troops.

As part of the increased military spending, Trump announced that the War Department would purchase new Abrams tanks, helicopters, and armored vehicles, and invest more than $1 billion in improving housing on bases.

The President also revealed that the U.S. is preparing to build next-generation warships, explaining that these vessels will be far more powerful than the iconic ships of World War II.

Trump concluded his speech by emphasizing that the U.S. military will remain the strongest in the world as long as his administration prioritizes defense, border security, and "America First" leadership.

First Lady Melania Trump also visited Fort Bragg, one of the largest military bases in the world, and spent time with military families. When introducing President Trump as the speaker, she greeted the troops with "Happy Valentine's Day," receiving cheers.

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U.S. NNP=Hong Sung-goo, Editor-in-Chief / Special Correspondent for this paper NNP info@newsandpost.com