I know from personal experience that everything happens for a reason. Whatever it is that God has planned for this man and his family was meant to be. Good luck Mr. West and God Bless. You have my undying gratitude for your actions!
He used discretion in a very time-sensitive (meaning urgent) combat situation to do that...and minimized US casualties in the process. He did so at personal risk to himself and his career.
He is being punished because his discretion violated what I consider to be a minor rule in order to accomplish what he did. He was and is wlling to be accountable for that and accept responsibility...another mark of a truly great leader.
He deserves our respect, our praise...and our support. God bless Him and God lead him on to what He would have Colonel West do in the future. I am sure He will...and I believe Colonel West will be listening with his heart and complying...he has already demonstrated the willingness and ability to do that very thing.