The story quickly inspired countless acts of generosity. On social media, the hashtag #BeLikePete began trending, as people shared stories of quiet kindness and service motivated by Hegseth’s example. Veterans, colleagues, and viewers alike praised him. A Marine who had served alongside him wrote: “Once a soldier, always a soldier. True courage is quiet. Pete just proved that.”
Children’s hospitals and veteran organizations across the country began receiving donations inspired by the story, some in Hannah’s name, helping families struggling with medical costs they couldn’t afford. When asked about it in a livestream, Pete deflected attention entirely: “It’s not newsworthy,” he said with a modest shrug. “If you see someone who needs help and you can do something, you do it. That’s it. The rest is between me, God, and that little girl.”
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