‘Be relentlessly lethal’: See the instructions U.S. military got from top admiral just before Iran action
American military members were given instructions as President Donald Trump ordered the launch of “Operation Epic Fury,” intended at least to remove the threat to America and its allies from Iran.
Leaders there for years have insisted they will build missiles with nuclear bombs, with the intention of wiping Israel off the map. They also repeatedly have threatened what they call the “great Satan,” the United States.
Already, Iran’s navy has been destroyed as dozens of its extremist Islamic leaders have been killed.
The message dispatching the troops came from Adm. Brad Cooper, the top U.S. military officer at CENTCOM.
Adm. Brad Cooper, the top U.S. military officer at @CENTCOM, sent this message to the roughly 50,000 U.S. troops directly involved in operations against Iran, I’m told. pic.twitter.com/9VGvRSWtTW
— Dan Lamothe (@DanLamothe) March 2, 2026
His message:
To America’s extraordinary sons and daughters deployed around the Middle East.
By order of the president of the United States, we are embarking on a mission of profound consequence. The time for preparation is over. The time for action has arrived.
As we move from deterrence into active combat, I write to tell you how honored I am to serve with you – the most exceptional Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Airmen, Guardians and Coast Guardsmen on this earth.
Some of you are stationed in the Middle East. Many of you have deployed overseas on short notice. Others have been extended on deployment for this critical mission. You represent the strongest, most lethal warfighting force the world has ever known. You all selflessly serve out great country and make us so very PROUD.
Since 1979, the Iranian Regime has killed and wounded thousands of Americans, and they continue to threaten Americans and our friends. Today, by your courage and grit, you will change the course of human history.
My guidance for you is simple:
Be relentlessly lethal. In the heat of conflict, remember who you are. Let your conduct be as professional as your aim is precise.
Take care of your teammates. The men and women on your flanks, in front of you and those at your six are your Guardian Angels. Be theirs.
Steady your resolve. Combat is inherently chaotic. The hours, days, and perhaps weeks ahead will challenge you. There will be noise and confusion. Fall back on your training. It is the best in the world.
You are the shield of the free world, and today, you are its sharpest sword.
As the eyes of the world fix upon us, stay safe and GODSPEED.
A report at RedState said it was shared by Washington Post correspondent Dan Lamothe.
The report explained, “This is the mindset and mentality of the Warrior Ethos, and in this most crucial time, it is absolute fire.”
Operation Epic Fury involves the largest regional concentration of American military firepower in a generation. pic.twitter.com/YB8HRsBS3n
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) March 2, 2026
The report noted Cooper’s instructions were similar to those of Pete Hegseth, the secretary of War.
He said, “This is your moment. This is the generational turning point America has waited for since 1979, and since the rudderless wars of hubris, my generation, our generation, endured. Don’t listen to the noise. Just stay focused. Our Commander-in-Chief is steady at the wheel.
“We face a determined enemy, but you are better. But we must prove it every single day. History doesn’t care if we’re tired, if we’re scared, or if the fight feels big, it demands Warriors who will rise anyway.
“Peace through Strength. The Warrior Ethos. Lethality. Unity of Purpose, those are not slogans. They’re the beating heart of what it means to wear the uniform. That uniform. You think clearly under fire, you act decisively in chaos, you uphold the Constitution. And you uphold our country without hesitation. We are not defenders anymore, we are Warriors. Trained to kill the enemy and break their will. History is watching, be the force you swore an oath to be: focused, disciplined, lethal, and unbreakable.”
He said, “May Almighty God watch over you and his providential arms of protection extend over you. Godspeed Warriors, and keep going.”
My message to the Joint Force. pic.twitter.com/erCP9mAp21
— Secretary of War Pete Hegseth (@SecWar) March 2, 2026