I have followed many of the links in this thread and others. I agree that he missed his movement. I do not know whether Col. Lakin's punishment will be light, harsh, or even end his career. The findings will be appealed and drag on beyond the November election. This ruling would seem to make it more likely that he will eventually receive a new trial.
Continuing legal actions will be scrutinized and the story will continue to receive limited coverage in the media. Any coverage of this matter tends to erode Obama’s popularity and ability to lead despite the claims otherwise by some posters here. Despite the detractors here who try to claim that this issue is a loser... doubts about Obama continue to receive more and more widespread acceptance. The eligibility issue keeps inching closer to attaining the critical mass that would be required to force Obama to come clean... regardless of the legal rulings. Even the supermarket gossip magazines are starting to pick this stuff up. Amazing!
I do not claim to know what the ultimate outcome of Col. Lakin’s situation will be; there are too many variables in play. I do know that he is an admirable person with a compelling personal story. None of the other cases cited have been in the same league. I am not sure how relevant past legal precedence is here. A harsh punishment for Col. Lakin would probably be more damaging to Obama than if this is somehow swept under the rug. If the perceived stench of unfairness continues to reek from this case it will definitely cause problems. I think Obama’s BC slip up the other day when asked about why so many people think he is a Muslim show that this issue was very revealing about Obama’s true fears.
I can’t predict the outcome of his case except that he will be found guilty. That will be a real shame. He will probably be dismissed from the service, but serve no time in confinement. I don’t know the details of his service, but I’ve heard that he has about 18 years which means that he will be ineligible for retirement benefits. His lawyer will be on to his next adventure.