Secretary of War Pete Hegseth to visit Oshkosh Monday

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth is scheduled to visit Oshkosh Monday, August 24, 2026, as part of his nationwide “Arsenal of Freedom” tour.

Hegseth will travel to Omaha, Nebraska, before coming to Oshkosh, where he is expected to deliver remarks to employees and leaders at Oshkosh Corporation.

The tour is focused on rebuilding America’s defense industrial base and strengthening the nation’s manufacturing workforce.

According to a press release on the visit, Hegseth’s message is that national security depends on the ability of American manufacturers to quickly produce the equipment needed by the military.

The tour also calls for changes to the defense acquisition process, including less government red tape, more innovation and a greater emphasis on using commercial technology.

Hegseth says the goal is to create a faster and more accountable defense industry, while encouraging companies to make long-term investments in American manufacturing.

Oshkosh Corporation has a long history of producing military vehicles and equipment for the U.S. Department of Defense.