Military legend addresses Cougar football team

Last week the WSU football team had the honor of listening to the wisdom of retired Marine Corps General James Mattis. A Richland native who was born in Pullman, Mattis grew up as a WSU fan. Which made him the perfect choice to speak to the Cougar football team ahead of the upcoming season.

Mattis had quite the distinguished military career. He commanded the 1^st Marine division during the initial attack and subsequent stability operations in Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was also the 11^th commander of US Central Command succeeding David Patraeus. He is known for implementing the COIN strategy during his time there. Some people may remember the name General Mattes from the HBO mini-series Generation Kill in which he was played by actor Robert Burke. Here is a clip (NSFW):

He is known as the "warrior monk" due to his intellect and fairness. Here are couple of examples of the wisdom that Mattis was known for. These are quotes from his military career.

"You are part of the world’s most feared and trusted force. Engage your brain before you engage your weapon."

"Every time you wave at an Iraqi civilian, al-Qaeda rolls over in its grave."

I can only imagine the great advice he gave to the fighting Cougars. Here are some pictures from the General’s speech.

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