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Worrying about the MSM spin is beside the point; this Marine's biggest problem right now is the U.S. military is likely about to make a grim example out of him.

That cuts both ways. Were I a murdering jihadist, I'd be considering a newer line of "work" after seeing this video aired on the Al Jazeera knitting circuit news. "Heavens, Ali! We ain't got nothin' bigger than these tatting needles!"

Second. The whole media circus surrounding Abu Ghraib -- has changed the way the public views the news. Now they are far more skeptical than before Abu Ghraib, and Kerry's "stars from 4 months in Vietnam".

Third, the military does THOROUGH investigations which are not carved around "ratings" and income (like in the private sector) -- therefore, the real details and data will emerge. And Sites' reputation will fall even lower into the tanks, and outside, say, Al Jazeera -- what paper would hire him? Not many, if any. He's going to have to plead with National Geographic to sell scenic shots of the topography, IMHO.

The military has far more "checks and balances" than the MSM has ever had.

That cuts both ways. Were I a murdering jihadist, I'd be considering a newer line of "work" after seeing this video

True. We have a reputation for being soft and weak, which is why so many people flock into Iraq from other countries to fight us. (Ironically, few of them return home alive). This video may put some scare in them. Not much consolation to the Marine facing charges, though.

True, but again, irrelevant to the Marine.

Third, the military does THOROUGH investigations which are not carved around "ratings" and income (like in the private sector) -- therefore, the real details and data will emerge...

I have two concerns here.

First, as I stated earlier, is that I fear the facts of the matter will show the Marine violated the rules of engagement, and will face prosecution. 'I felt threatened' are the three golden words for meeting 'use of lethal force' requirements, but you need to be able to show cause. Being spooked because an unarmed, wounded terrorist may be playing dead (i.e. no hostile act) won't cut it, as far as the ROE goes.

Second, when in doubt, the military often chooses to punish anyway, especially when bad publicity is involved. Are they going to fall on the sword of public opinion for one Marine caught in a very messy and questionable PR nightmare, when they could just wash their hands and move on?