Hegseth's focus on fitness and grooming is back in the spotlight ahead of another big speech

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth speaking during a recent ceremony.

Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images Troops selected to attend an upcoming meeting must meet weight and grooming standards, the Wall Street Journal reported.

Commands were reportedly told to choose top performers with strong leadership qualities.

The gathering comes a year after Hegseth summoned hundreds of senior military leaders to Quantico.

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth wants only fit, well-groomed troops in the audience for an upcoming address in Quantico, Virginia, later this month, according to a new report.

The selection criteria reflect Hegseth's broader focus on physical fitness and the military's public image .

According to internal emails reviewed by The Wall Street Journal , troops in attendance for Hegseth's speech must meet the military's weight requirements and maintain "impeccable" grooming standards.

The Office of the Secretary of Defense declined to comment on or provide a copy of the emailed memo to Business Insider.

It's common for military units to avoid showcasing sloppy-looking service members during high-profile public events .

Ceremonial units are well known for selecting fit troops who are meticulously groomed and dressed.

Selecting an entire audience on these requirements, as well as subjective leadership traits, is less so.

Only those who are "consistently rated as top performers within their formations," have a "clear record of integrity, discipline and selfless service," "demonstrate strong presence, clear communication and sound judgment under pressure," and "serve as role models for their peers and subordinates" may be sent by units to attend the speech, according to the Journal.

The Pentagon issued similar guidance this spring on the selection of fit troops to attend a mixed martial arts event on the White House lawn as part of America's 250th birthday celebration.

The address, scheduled for September 30, comes one year after Hegseth ordered 800 generals and admirals to the same base for a speech about renewing the " warrior ethos " within the ranks.