Replies

LTC West obviously is extremely rational, most of the time, but he was not being rational when he used his sidearm during an interrogation he shouldn't have been part of in the first place.

You are right he doesn't deserve the treatment he's getting. Though, it happens a lot in the military, it's called making an example of someone. I don't necessarily agree with it in this case, but it is an effective tool for commanders to use to ensure behavior of a certain nature doesn't continue. The commander of 4th ID has no choice but to ensure that a clear message is sent to all under his influence that this will not be tolerated. I hope that if there is an Article 32 hearing, LTC West is acquitted at trial, I don't think he should lose his retirement over this, but it has to be clear that soldiers can't do this.

The treatment LTC West is getting is Courtney Massengale B.S. If you know anything about troops, you know how that will be received.

You are dancing around the question. It's disingenous to defend the people who are trying to destroy LTC West and then piously "hope" he'll be acquitted at trial. The charges shouldn't have been brought in the first place.