Michael R. Weimer, a decorated Delta Force operator, has taken over as the 17th Sergeant Major of the Army in a significant leadership transition that stands out for his unconventional background and potential to reshape the Army’s future operations.

Sworn in on August 4th, 2023, Sgt. Maj. Weimer emerges from the elite and secretive ranks of Delta Force to represent every soldier in the U.S. Army, at a time when the service shifts focus from anti-terrorism operations to conventional warfare readiness.

Weimer is known among his peers not only for his impressive combat record, which includes multiple Bronze Stars and two Purple Hearts but also for his exceptional leadership qualities.

His approach to leadership deviates from traditional paths, having less conventional Army experience and being largely influenced by his background in special operations.

This sets him apart from his predecessors, as only three of the 16 previous sergeants major of the Army had any experience in special operations.

The Army spokesperson confirmed Weimer’s new role during a professional forum in Alexandria, Virginia.

Weimer was the top noncommissioned officer for Army Special Operations Command before his current appointment, stepping into the role in August 2021.

His journey within the military began in 1993, leading him to earn his Green Beret in 1996 and later serving as a Special Forces weapons sergeant.

His leadership style reflects a firm rejection of the status quo, a mindset rooted in the ethos of Delta Force, which celebrates innovation and adaptive solutions.

Despite the prestige of his awards, Weimer frequently appears in a uniform devoid of decorations, a testament to his focus on present challenges and future objectives, rather than past accolades.

Sgt. Maj. Weimer steps into his role amid transformations within the Army, including a change in focus to upgrading doctrines, policies, and equipment to prepare for conventional warfare challenges.

He is poised to address pressing issues, such as the living conditions of junior enlisted troops, the alarming rates of suicide among soldiers, and potential modifications to soldiers’ dining facilities.

His perspective on the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) is unwavering.

Despite ongoing debates and congressional proposals for changes, Weimer firmly believes in the ACFT’s value, saying, “While it can evolve, [it] is good for the Army,” emphasizing its role in rigorously measuring soldiers’ fitness.

An advocate for disciplined service, Weimer stands firm on the topic of grooming standards, seeing daily shaving as a symbol of the discipline required of soldiers, leaving no room for leniency in relaxing those standards.

Relevant articles:
– A Delta Force Operator is Now Sergeant Major of the Army: Meet Mike Weimer, SOFREP, Aug 5, 2023
– Herm Hasken on LinkedIn: A Delta Force Operator is Now Sergeant Major of the Army: Meet Mike Weimer, LinkedIn · Herm Hasken
– Meet Mike Weimer, a former Delta Force operator who is now a sergeant major in the Army, SOFX, Aug 19, 2023
– Meet the next Sergeant Major of the Army, Army Times, Dec 8, 2022