The U.S. military has taken quick action after a controversial social media post from a Marine recruiter mocked the assassination of conservative figure Charlie Kirk.
The Pentagon made it clear that it will not tolerate any celebratory or hateful comments from servicemembers or Department of War employees in response to Kirk’s death.
Social Media Post Sparks Outrage
The issue began when a screenshot went viral in conservative circles. It showed a U.S. Marine Corps recruiter’s post that read, “Another racist man popped,” alongside a photo of Charlie Kirk.
The post drew intense criticism online, especially from right-wing influencers and figures close to the Trump administration.
One major account, Libs of TikTok, run by influencer Chaya Raichik, directly called on Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to take action. “Hi @PeteHegseth, can you please fire this lunatic?” she posted, sharing the screenshot.
Marine Corps Responds Swiftly
The Marine Corps confirmed that the recruiter responsible for the post was fired.
“We are aware of a social media post that does not align with our core values,” said Lt. Col. Joshua Benson, the Marines’ lead spokesperson.
“The Marine in question has been relieved of his recruiting duties, and the matter is currently under investigation.”
The Marine who made the post has not responded to media requests for comment.
Zero Tolerance from the Department of War
Chief Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell emphasized on X (formerly Twitter) that celebrating or mocking Kirk’s assassination is unacceptable.
“It is unacceptable for military personnel and Department of War civilians to celebrate or mock the assassination of a fellow American,” he wrote.
“The Department of War has zero tolerance for it.”
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth also weighed in strongly, stating that the department is tracking these posts closely and will take immediate action when necessary.
Wider Crackdown on Inappropriate Comments
The crackdown goes beyond just one Marine. Other posts, including one from a teacher in the military’s school system who allegedly called Kirk a “garbage human,” have also come under fire.
Right-wing influencer Maj. Adam D’Ortona, who works in Hegseth’s office and goes by “infantrydort” online, reshared the teacher’s post, stating:
“If you speak like this woman, you should lose your job.”
“Openly celebrating the death of anyone (let alone a fellow American) is not harmless free speech. It is corrosion from within.”
The Pentagon clarified that D’Ortona is not an official spokesperson or advisor but did not deny the legitimacy of the post.
Statements from Military Branches
Leaders from across the military also issued broad statements warning their personnel.
- The Air Force confirmed it was investigating “inappropriate comments” related to Kirk’s killing.
- A spokesperson said, “Commanders are taking the necessary administrative and disciplinary actions to hold service members accountable.”
- The Navy and Army declined to provide further comment but acknowledged they were aware of the situation.
The State Department also added to the pressure, warning that foreign nationals who glorify Kirk’s killing may be denied U.S. entry.
“The Trump administration does not believe that the United States should grant visas to persons whose presence in our country does not align with U.S. national security interests,” it said.
Kirk Praised During 9/11 Ceremony
At a Pentagon ceremony marking the September 11 attacks, Secretary Hegseth praised Charlie Kirk, calling him a “Christ-follower and American patriot.” He compared Kirk to the first responders who risked their lives on 9/11.
“Well done, good and faithful servant. Full heart, clear eyes. Like those on 9/11, he will never be forgotten,” Hegseth said.
The situation has raised strong opinions on both sides of the political spectrum, but the message from the Pentagon is clear: personal views should not interfere with professionalism, especially in the military. As investigations continue, the focus remains on upholding discipline and respect within the armed forces.
