The U.S. Department of Defense has been engaging with families of fallen service members while preparing for a possible deployment of ground troops to the Middle East amid ongoing tensions with Iran. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reported that many families urged the continuation of the mission, though some, like Charles Simmons, expressed uncertainty about the war’s necessity. Meanwhile, Pentagon officials are readying forces including the 82nd Airborne Division and Marine units, even as President Trump denies immediate plans to send troops, emphasizing that preparations aim to preserve strategic options.