[LS]

I'm talking of "preparing" the intellectual argument that is sure to come. Both Bush and Clinton mastered the art of getting ahead of the news. It was a good strategy. We should already be laying the groundwork---no matter what the verdict---that the reason the U.S. military is the greatest in history is that we are the ONLY ones who even investigate such claims; then prosecute; then, if necessary, carry out the judgments.

It is necessary to prepare so that the inevitable claim that this is "symbolic" of all soldiers/Marines doesn't even begin to get off the ground.

[Inverse]

That sounds good in theory.
However what does that exactly mean doing?

If it means that we should just gather data to support the fact that we get rid of our bad apples, that is fine.
If it means judging our troops guilty before the trial you can count me out.

I am sorry but that is what it sounds like you are recommending.

The claim that ALL our troops do this will be spouted by every liberal, and by everyone who has an axe to grind against the USA.

The actual facts of the case will not stop them in the least.