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‘Be the hunter, not the hunted’ Marines were told before invading Iraq

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Ten years ago, on the eve of war in Iraq in March 2003, 1st Marine Division commanding general then-Maj. Gen James N. Mattis, issued the following message to his Marines. Mattis reminded his Marines, including thousands who deployed from the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center in Twentynine Palms, to “be the hunter, not the hunted” and “keep your honor clean” as they prepared to cross the Line of Departure from Kuwait into Iraq and commence Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Here is the full text of Mattis’ Message to All Hands:

March 2003

1st Marine Division (REIN)

Commanding General’s Message to All Hands

In 2003, Marines in 1st Marine Division were given this message in the days before war began in Iraq.

For decades, Saddam Hussein has tortured, imprisoned, raped and murdered the Iraqi people; invaded neighboring countries without provocation; and threatened the world with weapons of mass destruction. The time has come to end his reign of terror. On your young shoulders rest the hopes of mankind.

When I give you the word, together we will cross the Line of Departure, close with those forces that choose to fight, and destroy them. Our fight is not with the Iraqi people, nor is it with members of the Iraqi army who choose to surrender. While we will move swiftly and aggressively against those who resist, we will treat all others with decency, demonstrating chivalry and soldierly compassion for people who have endured a lifetime under Saddam’s oppression.

Chemical attack, treachery, and use of the innocent as human shields can be expected, as can other unethical tactics. Take it all in stride. Be the hunter, not the hunted; never allow your unit to be caught with its guard down. Use good judgment and act in the best interests of our Nation.

You are part of the world’s most feared and trusted force. Engage your brain before you engage your weapon. Share your courage with each other as we enter the uncertain terrain north of the Line of Departure. Keep faith in your comrades on your left and right and Marine Air overhead. Fight with a happy heart and strong spirit.

For the mission’s sake, our country’s sake, and the sake of the men who carried the Division’s colors in past battles…. who fought for life and never lost their nerve…. carry out your mission and keep your honor clean. Demonstrate to the world there is “No Better Friend, No Worse Enemy” than a U.S. Marine.

For the mission’s sake, our country’s sake, and the sake of the men who carried the Division’s colors in past battles – who fought for life and never lost their nerve – carry out your mission and keep your honor clean. Demonstrate to the world there is “No Better Friend, No Worse Enemy” than a U.S. Marine.

J.N. Mattis

Major General, U.S. Marines

Commanding


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