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But it is clear that Marines misreported the initial incident, did not correct it, and officers did not investigate it. The question Natonski will get — and one that may be answered by a military court-martial — is, should the commanders have known?

Perhaps you should refrain from commenting then. I spoke in a general way before given a general and casual understanding of the facts.

The question as it appears to me now, is did misreporting the incident constitute a specific intent to coverup a crime that was in fact committed with premeditation as retaliation for events prior in the day. You don't need a specific amount of time to hit "premeditation." Nor do the actions have to be carefully planned in advance. That is something that can be revealed in an investigation. But should an investigation take place at all? Especially at the urging of the American media who love the idea of military murderers running amuck and smearing the good name of the United States.... (hurl alert)! If the media wants a circus it will not benefit the war effort and war is an UGLY thing....we all agree. Will putting these troopers on trial serve the best interests of our country or work against those interests?

As for whether or not the commanders should have known...unless they were there....no, of course not. It's not called the fog of war for nothing. If the leadership is experienced and reliable, you must trust them and give them the discretion to act reasonably under the circumstances.