xzins, I am no President Bush basher, but he did comment on the Haditha Marines early on. From the NY Times,
In First Comments on Case, Bush Promises Justice in Military Investigation of Civilian Deaths , June 1, 2006
"President Bush said Wednesday that he was troubled by the allegations that American marines killed 24 Iraqi civilians in an unprovoked attack, and he vowed that "those who violated the law, if they did, will be punished."
"I am troubled by the initial news stories," Mr. Bush said in his first public comments about the accusations. "I am mindful that there is a thorough investigation going on. If, in fact, the laws were broken, there will be punishment."
Mr. Bush also said he had spoken with Gen. Peter Pace, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, about the killings last November in the Iraqi town of Haditha, 150 miles northwest of Baghdad. As many as 24 civilians there died in gunfire after a Marine patrol was attacked, and survivors say many of the victims were offering no resistance. "I know this," Mr. Bush said. "I've talked to General Pete Pace about the subject, who is a proud marine, and nobody is more concerned about these allegations than the Marine Corps." Mr. Bush spoke in response to a question from a reporter during an appearance with President Paul Kagame of Rwanda."
I remember his comments.
In this case, I would say that he over-reacted, sent a clear message to be on the side of guilt with these Marines, and therefore, engaged in UCI.
For those who don't think the confusion about strategy, tactics, and ROEs don't go straight to the top, you just nailed it.
Thorough investigation, my nether anatomy. If the President and commander in chief did not have someone of senior rank over in Iraq as his personal representative, an honest competent straight shooter to keep an eye on things and report directly back, someone who could get the straight scoop after a helicopter ride and a few personal interviews with the folks running the thing, then Bush has no idea what the words Commander in Chief mean, or smart and competent either (think Harriet Miers). But this is so typical. We can thank god that we have Gates and Petraeus, but remember folks, Gates is a Bush1 man. Bush2 had to run through all of his good 'ol boys first. Sounds like there are still a bunch of them around though.