US Marine reservists have received a letter urging them to be prepared for potential deployment linked to Iran. The notice, sent by Lieutenant General Leonard F. Anderson IV, commander of Marine Forces Reserve (MARFORRES), warned Marines to check their gear, readiness and personal affairs in case mobilisation orders are issued.

In his letter, dated March 26, Lt Gen Anderson emphasised that forces were already "engaged in operations connected to Iran" and that any mass mobilisation "could become reality". "Marines, Our Nation is in a consequential moment. Global events are shaping our nation's security, and we must be ready," the letter, which has been shared on social media, reads. "I ask you directly: Are you truly ready to deploy, fight, and win? Are your skills sharp, your standards high, and your gear prepared for immediate movement?"

The letter continues: "Are your family's affairs in order? When the call comes, readiness will be assumed, not questioned. Your readiness is not a declaration; it is a daily commitment."

The MARFORRES, founded in 1916 and headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, is the US Marine Corps' reserve force, providing operational reinforcement to active-duty forces. It consists of approximately 33,000 personnel who train part-time, generally following the "one weekend a month, two weeks a year" training schedule, maintaining the same standards as active duty troops.

The letter instructs the Marines to ensure their desert MARPAT (Marine Pattern) uniforms are readily available and that all gear is packed and ready for immediate movement.

"Check your readiness. Tighten your standards. Prepare your family. Our nation expects a disciplined, capable force ready for immediate action. That force is Marine Forces Reserve. That standard begins with, and must be held by, you. FIGHT'S ON!"

After receiving the letter, many reservists expressed confusion and frustration on Reddit, admitting they were caught off guard.

One early response said: "The hell is this.... never been deployed, is this like a go f*** yourself before we start prep or something. So confused what the hell my leadership just sent me."

Many saw the letter as an urgent wakeup call that the Iran conflict could be escalating into something more major: "This is worrying..." one wrote.

Some veterans, however, bluntly pointed out the contractual reality of military service: "Your reason to fight is whatever the f*** our government wants. It's literally in the contract you signed."