[sarasmom]

LTCol. West did what he needed to do.He had boots on the ground, and I will not second guess his decision.
I thank him for doing what he did.It saved lives.
As every military Officer and NCOIC knows, sometimes doing what is needed and critically called for, will be punished.
The trick is to make sure that when you choose to ignore regulations and the UCMJ, the reason you did so can be explained and forgiven.
It is often wiser to ask forgiveness,than to ask permission.
By his own words, he knew what he did was "wrong", in the sense that he knew he would "pay" for his actions.
I pray he gets nothing more serious than a verbal reprimand.
Immediately followed by letter of commendation.
God bless him.

[Big Horn]

I am with you. Maybe dock him a days pay then a medal.