Having the unit sign a non-disclosure agreement never to discuss Bergdahl’s disappearance/desertion is extremely unusual to me. The only time I’m aware that happens is when a soldier is exposed to extremely classified information for which they have not been cleared. I can’t fathom why the desertion of a unit member would receive the highest of security classifications.
Next, that weak line about Bergdahl have served his time by being held captive is simply not true.
1. What is the normal punishment for desertion in a combat zone and while on guard duty? (I know it goes up to and includes the death sentence.) If his 5 years with the Taliban is not as long as a normal sentence, then no, he hasn’t served his time.
2. Also, if as a deserter he joined with the Taliban, and now is just interested in going home to visit his family (and be a possible agent while here), then he could well have been treated well, except for a few photo ops to deceive the public, and didn’t serve any time at all.
This desertion is very disturbing, because he did desert from guard duty, and he did leave his unit vulnerable, and his action did lead to deaths.
They prosecuted the Haditha Marines for returning fire when fired upon, and now a deserter is going to get a pass?
Prosecute those faithfully upholding the mission, but heap acclaim on those who subvert the mission? Is that insane or what?
In no way should this be construed as a lynch mop or as clamoring for blood, but the accusations of his fellow unit members clear call for an investigation.
http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/news/3162555/posts?page=84#84
Per RummyChick post, Cody said the nda’s weren’t from the DoD.
My question:
Who were they from?
The non-disclosure statement really stinks. Sounds like the powers that be knew years ago he's a deserter and this could come back to haunt them after soldiers were killed trying to find him.
Another senior Defense official said Bergdahl will not likely face any punishment. "Five years is enough," he told CNN on condition of anonymity.
I'd surely like to know the name of that official, s/he sounds like a mouthpiece for 0bama or one his close lapdogs in the WH.
I'd also like to see that senior official host a meeting with every family member of the soldiers that lost their lives or were severely injured on missions looking for Bergdahl.
This entire fiasco is sickening, from the start up to and including what the brass and civilian officials are doing now.