Secretary of War Pete Hegseth directed his staff to investigate employees who mocked or celebrated the death of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk, calling such behavior “unacceptable” for military personnel and Defense Department civilians. Chief Pentagon Spokesman Sean Parnell stated the department maintains “zero tolerance” for “celebrating or mocking the assassination of a fellow American,” emphasizing immediate action against offenders.
Several service members have been removed from their roles due to posts related to Kirk’s killing, though officials did not specify the number of disciplinary actions taken. Hegseth’s directive extends to individuals associated with the Defense Department. He and other senior leaders also urged the public to report social media content perceived as critical of Kirk or unsympathetic to his murder.
Hegseth honored Kirk during a Pentagon speech, praising his “sheer courage” and stating, “Charlie, we love you. We know that you have heard the Lord’s words: well done, good and faithful servant.” He compared Kirk to those who died on 9/11, declaring he would “never be forgotten.”
Military leaders across branches warned against inappropriate comments about Kirk, with Navy Secretary John Phelan stating employees who “bring discredit” on the department would face “swiftly and decisively” consequences. The U.S. Coast Guard also acknowledged “inappropriate personal social media activity” by a member related to recent political violence, though no details were provided.