A recent Military.com investigation has revealed that soldiers selected to appear behind President Donald Trump during his visit to Fort Bragg were chosen based on political allegiance and physical appearance, raising concerns about the politicization of the military.

According to internal 82nd Airborne Division communications obtained by Military.com, event organizers specifically screened troops for their political views and instructed that only those who supported the administration participate. Those who did not agree were reportedly allowed to opt out of the audience. Additionally, directives included guidance on the physical presentation of the soldiers, with explicit instructions to avoid selecting individuals who did not fit a certain appearance standard.

The group positioned behind the president was overwhelmingly male, which, along with the screening process, appears to have been intended to create a particular visual for the televised event.

During his speech, President Trump criticized several Democratic figures, including California Governor Gavin Newsom and former President Joe Biden. He also critized the news media. The soldiers responded with enthusiastic cheers.

Military regulations strictly prohibit service members from engaging in partisan political activities while in uniform.

While presidential visits to military bases are not uncommon, Military.com notes that the level of orchestration and the encouragement of partisan reactions at this event were unusual and have sparked debate about the importance of maintaining the military’s apolitical stance.