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Lakin addresses his letter to Obama:

The Honorable Barack Obama
President of the United States of America
...
Dear Mr. President:

I could be wrong, but hasn’t he recognized Obama as President by addressing him as such?

Go with your first assumption ... YES, you are wrong.

First of all, Lakin is bound by the UCMJ, which actually gives him more protections than a civilian, but also restricts his civil liberties. As such, he does not want to be in violation of Article 88 (Contempt toward officials) and Article 133 (Conduct unbecoming an officer and a gentleman).

Just because the CinC acts like a uncouth, immature, hoodlum Rat Bastard in a suit, it doesn't mean Lt Col Lakin should follow his lead:

Second of all, to remain above the fray, it is wise for him to let his attorney use phrases like "de facto" in the courtroom or in front of TV cameras, not Lt Col Lakin in a public letter. Again, this is all standard ROE for a military trial, especially one that will eventually find its way into the Federal Court system.

Lt Col Lakin has not "incriminated himself" as jamese777 falsely portrays — jamese's obviously watched too much Cop Rock and Night Court in his teenage years. LOL

The last paragraph of Lt Col Lakin's letter says it all (emphasis added):

"Unless it is established (by this sufficient proof that should be easily within your power to provide) that you are constitutionally eligible to serve as President and my Commander-in-Chief, I, and all other military officers may be following illegal orders. Therefore, sir, until an original birth certificate is brought forward that validates your eligibility and puts to rest the other reasonable questions surrounding your unproven eligibility; I cannot in good conscience obey ANY military orders."

Go with your first assumption ... YES, you are wrong.

First of all, Lakin is bound by the UCMJ, which actually gives him more protections than a civilian, but also restricts his civil liberties. As such, he does not want to be in violation of Article 88 (Contempt toward officials) and Article 133 (Conduct unbecoming an officer and a gentleman).

I see, Lakin addresses his letter to Obama, as the President, because he doesn't want to be guilty of contempt toward officials and then writes:

"Unless it is established (by this sufficient proof that should be easily within your power to provide) that you are constitutionally eligible to serve as President and my Commander-in-Chief, I, and all other military officers may be following illegal orders. Therefore, sir, until an original birth certificate is brought forward that validates your eligibility and puts to rest the other reasonable questions surrounding your unproven eligibility; I cannot in good conscience obey ANY military orders."

So Lakin takes care to show Obama proper respect due a lawful President of the United States so as not to run afoul of the UCMJ, and then announces his intention to not obey any orders until Obama proves to him that he is, indeed, the President and due the respect he takes care to show.

Second of all, to remain above the fray, it is wise for him to let his attorney use phrases like "de facto" in the courtroom or in front of TV cameras, not Lt Col Lakin in a public letter.

Obama IS the president until he is not the president. Until he is proven to not be eligible for the office he holds, his orders are legal, Lakin is obligated to follow them.