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Having spent time with British forces during my military career, I would have to say that the Reservist Major was lucky that all Colonel Collins did at the time was to make him stand at attention. The Major had disobeyed the orders of an officer placed in his chain of command. He was arrested, but apparently not confined. He served as an example to everyone that Colonel Collins was not going to tolerate insolence or insubordination in a time of war in HIS combat area of responsibility.

There should not be any question of the appropriateness of his actions. The Major was wrong, and had been given an order to correct his behavior. He apparently responded in a highly inappropriate manner.

Had the shoe been on another foot, and had I been in a position where I had to similarly discipline a member of the British military in a combat zone, there is absolutely no doubt in my mind that the British chain of command would have supported me all the way. I also know that they would have made the life of their military member doubly uncomfortable...first for disobeying my order, and secondly for embarassing the Service, the Queen, and the people of the United Kingdom.

Hopefully, the United States Army will do the same.

I realize that there are a lot of people who do not want American military personnel serve under the command of other forces. Having spent a career in the military, I can testify to the value of service members from allies serving together, for a multitude of very practical reasons.

I can also say that serving with British units provided some of the best experiences of my military career.

It seems to me that an officer making an accusation based on heresay alone might be subject to disciplinary action himself.

This little major has done serious damage to the allies in iraq and at home.

Absolutely unforgiveable behovior by my lights.

I'm a USAF reservist, Major, and would like to see an investigation fo the accuser.