**Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth Meets with Families of Fallen Service Members** Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth met privately with the families of six service members who died in the Iran war at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware on Wednesday. In a press briefing the next morning, Hegseth stated that the message he received from the families was consistent and supportive. According to Hegseth, the families expressed a desire for him to "finish this," "honor their sacrifice," and "do not waver" or "stop until the job is done." However, this account has been disputed by at least one family member. Charles Simmons, the father of Tech. Sgt. Tyler H. Simmons, 28, who was killed in the Iran war, recalled his conversation with Hegseth differently. Simmons told NBC News that he spoke separately to Hegseth and President Donald Trump at Dover and was grateful for the warmth they showed him. However, he stated that he did not discuss the need to continue fighting the war with Hegseth. Simmons said that he and Hegseth mostly spoke about his son's impressive service record and his rapid advancement in the military. Simmons also expressed his understanding that decision-making in such situations can be perilous and stated that he hoped the decisions being made were necessary. When asked if he had any questions about the war, Simmons replied that he had "questions" but was unable to draw definitive conclusions without more data. He emphasized that "who wants war?" and that sometimes it is a necessity. The Pentagon has stated that Secretary Hegseth has the utmost respect for Gold Star families and has pledged to honor the sacrifice of their loved ones. However, the details of each individual conversation remain private. The White House has also released a statement, saying that President Trump "grieved" with the families of the six service members and expressed his gratitude for their sacrifice. Trump is quoted as saying that the fallen service members "represent the very best of America." Simmons last spoke with his son, Tyler, the day before the fatal plane crash. Tyler had hoped to become a commercial airplane pilot after retiring from the military. Simmons described his son as having a "magnetic personality" and said that he never met any strangers.