President Donald Trump delivered a commencement address at the US Coast Guard Academy in Connecticut on Wednesday, telling graduates they will be “tested further” in their military careers. 

“To all of the moms and dads, grandparents, and family members here on this joyous occasion, thank you for everything you’ve done to raise such amazing American patriots,” Trump told families attending the ceremony.

During his remarks, Trump praised graduates, saying they would demonstrate “unbelievable heroism and exceptional selflessness” during their service.

“You’ve all been tested. You’ll be tested further and probably at higher levels as your career goes on,” Trump said. 

Trump also referenced the ongoing war with Iran, which has entered its 12th week, calling it a sign of the nation’s success and that the US is “the hottest country anywhere in the world.”

“Everything’s gone. Their navy’s gone, their air force is gone, just about everything. The only question is, do we go and finish it up, or are they going to be signing a document?” Trump said of Iran.

The president mentioned Venezuela, following the US operation last year that captured Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro. “Venezuela used to be a really great country 20 years ago, then it went the wrong way. It went the way they’d like to take this country—some lunatics would like to take this country way, way, left and destroy it. But we’re not going to let that happen,” Trump said.

Trump also delivered a heartfelt message to the Coast Guard, saying its “heroes” have “lived by a creed of honor, bravery, and sacrifice.”

“In the hour of need, our Coast Guardsmen have brought hope to the hopeless, and swept the innocent from the jaws of a raging sea,” Trump said.

“The class of 2026 is graduating at an incredible, exciting time for our nation, and the Coast Guard in particular,” the president added.