[xzins]

“This action is especially inappropriate considering SSgt Wuterich is in the middle of his Article 32 Hearing.

I agree with TMLCenter. This is further evidence of command influence on this case. Not only is this unfair to the officers censured for a crime that did not happen, but one can only think the timing of this news release could not have been better planned to influence the outcome of the Art 32 results.

The SecNavy's office appears to have a tin ear. Perhaps all along they have been the source of the mysterious leaks, anonymous quotes, and comments off the record.

Who are these people?

Honestly, who more than the SecNav would worry about the pursestrings held in the hands of Congressman Murtha, the man who needs a Haditha conviction not to look a fool. What has been telegraphed to the SecNav by Murtha? What threats? What promise of underfunding or of intransigence in the funding process?

Or has the SecNav simply reacted in fear of these things? The insidiousness of command influence is that the fear it generates leaves no fingerprints. The SecNav's office reeks of fear.

Therefore, I can never believe these officers to be guilty. It is entirely reasonable to believe they are political sacrifices....reasonable doubt. And it is entirely reasonable to believe that the intrusion into this case by Murtha is bearing its poisoned fruit.

[brityank]

Thank you, Chaplain — I believe we all agree with that. The only question remains, how do we correct the inequities that are becoming more prevalent every day? I don’t see the Media helping much; they only ‘win’ if Murtha does.

[smoothsailing]

Highly probable assessment, Chappy.

At the end of the day, murtha is a focal point and can never be allowed to walk away.

Keep on truckin', brother, your wisdom is comfort, and your clarity of mind is refreashing.

[Shelayne]

Honestly, who more than the SecNav would worry about the pursestrings held in the hands of Congressman Murtha, the man who needs a Haditha conviction not to look a fool. What has been telegraphed to the SecNav by Murtha? What threats? What promise of underfunding or of intransigence in the funding process?

Yes, Chaplain, this is what I have been wondering about as well. Exactly WHAT is going on here--because it obviously is not any quest for the truth. What kind of power is Murtha holding over these people? Who is involved? Is there some kind of "understanding"? And exactly how MUCH tinfoil am I going to need to fashion my shiny new hat?

This is frightening that this kind of thing can happen. It's like a suspense novel.