[smoothsailing]

This is worth reading...

http://maggiesfarm.anotherdotcom.com/archives/18952-Understanding-The-Wuterich-Haditha-Court-Martial.html

[jazusamo]

Thanks, Smooth. Excellent piece, Kesler knows what he’s talking about.

[Girlene]

Excellent piece from "Maggie's Farm", Understanding the Wuterich Haditha Court Martial

This bit that they point out from the presiding judges's comments from Wuterich's Article 32 is important to remember,

[Background] Similarly, the facts are contested or in serious doubt in the clearing of several houses near the IED explosion, from which direction small arms fire was received. The prosecution contends that deadly force need not have been used, and was in contradiction to the rules of engagement. The Article 32 hearing officer, however, with respect to House 1, said that although the clearing techniques used may have differed from those in the official rules of engagement these clearing methods were what the Marines were taught to do.

"Our Marines should be able to rely upon being taught tactics which will not later subject them to criminal liability if properly employed.” The hearing officer also stated, “pursuing the theory that further positive idendification after entering a room you reasonably believe contains enemy combatants inside would significantly impact combat operations and is an unwarranted, ill conceived and dangerous application of restraint."

Excellent reminder. Thanks for finding this, smooth.