Pentagon officials are now actively monitoring an alarming wave of public celebrations over the assassination of Charlie Kirk and weighing action against any military members or department personnel involved.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, along with multiple other military and department leaders, said the department is “tracking” celebrations of Kirk’s death among personnel and promised the issue will be “addressed immediately.” In the wake of the assassination, a torrent of left-leaning users on X, BlueSky, and TikTok openly cheered the conservative leader’s murder, with several accounts allegedly tied to military personnel.
“It is unacceptable for military personnel and Department of War civilians to celebrate or mock the assassination of a fellow American,” Pentagon Chief Spokesperson Sean Parnell said in a post on X. “The Department of War has zero tolerance for it.” (RELATED: Charlie Kirk Dead At 31 Following University Shooting)
It is unacceptable for military personnel and Department of War civilians to celebrate or mock the assassination of a fellow American.
The Department of War has zero tolerance for it.
— Sean Parnell (@SeanParnellASW) September 11, 2025
The Department of the Air Force is aware of inappropriate comments concerning recent political violence. This behavior is unacceptable and contrary to our core values. Airmen and Guardians are expected to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and conduct at all times.
— Office of the Secretary of the Air Force (@SecAFOfficial) September 12, 2025
Kirk was killed on September 10th by 22-year-old Tyler Robinson during an event at Utah Valley University (UVU). Robinson allegedly engraved multiple “antifascist” and leftist messages on bullet casings found by law enforcement, Utah Governor Spencer Cox revealed at a press conference Friday.
A family member told authorities that Robinson had “become more political in recent years” and was “full of hate,” Cox said. The relative alleged Robinson talked about Kirk’s plans to come speak at UVU and how much he disliked him.
Sec. Hegseth said on X Thursday that DOD is “tracking” celebratory commentary on the murder, calling it “completely unacceptable.” Secretary of the Army Daniel Driscoll added that posts which “celebrate or mock the assassination of a fellow American are inconsistent with Army values.”
We are tracking all these very closely — and will address, immediately. Completely unacceptable. https://t.co/9weALT5Pb7
— Pete Hegseth (@PeteHegseth) September 11, 2025
Posts that celebrate or mock the assassination of a fellow American are inconsistent with Army values. Full stop. https://t.co/ZrBIaahO2d
— Secretary of the Army (@SecArmy) September 12, 2025
It remains unclear what reprimands are being considered for service members who cheered on Kirk’s death, and whether discharges are among the punishments under consideration.
The Pentagon declined to comment further on the matter.
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