Update: 2nd Lt. Pantano

REBUILDING IN THE GULF Marines urge patience in accused-officer case Corps says it understands outrage over possibility of death penalty POSTED 2/15/2005
by Art Moore

"Every Marine knows that a Marine has been charged with premediated murder," he said. "If it causes them to hesitate for one second because they worry about being second-guessed, that is criminal neglect on the part of Marine Corps leadership. We should not suffer one casualty because they are worried about being second-guessed."

Marine Corps spokesman Morgan <...> noted the specific rules of engagment in operation during that time in the Sunni Triangle are crucial to determining whether Pantano violated the military code of justice or legitimately engaged in self-defense.

The thresholds vary from location to location and conflict to conflict, Morgan stated. [read more]

I want to cry. I don't know what else to say...? If they do not drop these charges and award him damages for tarnishing his reputation, then I will never trust the desk top Jawbreakers again.

Do they not understand we are at war? They must. Are they angry they are too old, fat, and comfortable to participate? Then get on an exercise program, and get over there. I still haven't been able to put the puzzle together about the "disgruntled Sergeant." How do you make it to Sgt. if you're disgruntled? Hat tip to Gaijin Biker over at Riding Sun.

REBUILDING IN THE GULF Marine's charges set 'terrible precedent Lt. Col. West's lawyer sees similarity to case he defended POSTED 2/12/2005
by Art Moore

Noting that the combat incident was investigated at the time, clearing anyone of wrongdoing, Puckett said it "defies logic" that the case should be re-opened the following year with criminal charges.

Puckett said Marines now apparently must fear prosecutors as well as terrorists.

"Monday morning quarterbacking, in the absence of any evidence of criminal intent on the part of a trained Marine officer, is just the wrong way to run a war," he said. [read more]

If you believe with the author of this article, please call President Bush at (202) 456-1111, and politely voice your opinion. He is always interested in hearing from the public, even when we don't agree with him. Again, hat tip to Riding Sun.

Update: I have made a list of links of my articles for those who would like more information on 2nd Lt. Ilario Pantano.