James Mattis, commander of the U.S. Central Command, said more aircraft would be required than deployed on a single carrier.

FORBES: Libya: Another Unnecessary War Of Choice

The US Marine Corps last year had to publicly upbraid Lt Gen James Mattis after he cheerfully admitted on a panel discussion that he enjoyed war.

BBC: NEWS | Europe | Caught on tape: Infamous gaffes

We're partial to General James Mattis, who previously ran the Marine component of Central Command, served tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, and helped write the Army's counterinsurgency manual with General Petraeus.

WSJ: The Petraeus Hail Mary

General Austin succeeds Marine Corps General James Mattis.

WHITEHOUSE: Lloyd Austin to Lead U.S. Central Command

James "Mad Dog" Mattis, who just retired as head of U.S. Central Command.

WSJ: Prank and File: These Military Reports Are Out of Line