I hope Hegseth was referring to those who took part in the battle and not those who slaughtered those who stayed in the camp.
It was real life, and messy, it always is when the enemy forces insist on attacking and fighting when their women and children are with them.
“There were indeed women and children killed, but not intentionally. Many were hit by crossfire from both sides. The Indians were firing at US soldiers who had disbursed throughout the camp while searching for weapons. Moreover, there are accounts of women engaging in the fighting as well.”