General Says Courts Martial of SEALs Will Continue
Representative Dan Burton (R-IN-05) received a December 15, 2009 reply from Major General Cleveland, indicating he will continue with the Navy SEALs special courts-martial. Rep. Burton’s January 4, 2010 reply letter strongly urges the General to reconsider.
General Cites Enforcement of Lawful Orders
The General reportedly cited the incomplete and misrepresentation of facts by the media, the need to enforce lawful orders no matter how small the infraction, and the refocus on the case on allegations of attempted cover ups and influence of a witness.
Rep. Burton Urges Non-Punitive Means
Rep. Burton’s second letter to the command acknowledges the need for discipline but restates that the punishment far exceeds the crime. The Congressman additionally cites concern over the culture of the military where members are more concerned about protecting themselves from prosecution than fighting the enemy; the perception of America by terrorists as too weak to do what is necessary; and the damage caused to America’s morale if these courts-martial proceed.
Navy SEAL Prosecution at What Cost?
Military members have the responsibilities to act on the battlefield within political and military policies and rules of engagement and in accordance with their training and the unit mission standing operating procedures (SOPs). In this case, the Navy SEALs are being prosecuted at a level deemed a federal crime rather than through administrative means that would leave the military morale and their continued service to the country in place.
Tags: court-martial, Major General Cleveland, McCabe, Navy SEALs, Puckett Faraj, Rep Burton, terrorist
January 13th, 2010 at 3:38 pm
Please take the very best care of these warriors, as they are our countries very best defenders
January 17th, 2010 at 8:08 pm
All that can be asked, is to do ones best. Seals are known to get it done in a timely manner. I support your efforts to do your job as best you can. I wish I could know you, to thank you for your service.
You are in my payers for a speedy trial and a return to duty ASAP.
January 21st, 2010 at 8:08 am
I find it amazing that in today’s world we put on trial men who go forth and are willing to lay so costly a sacrifice upon the alter of freedom.The citizens of the united states pay taxes to train these elite warriors (estimated at 1million us dollars including BUDS) Yet we feel it necessary to question their tactics and professionalism in a situation that less than .01% of Americans have ever been in. Furthermore actions such as these will only damage the moral of the US military and continue to make us appear weak to those who seek the destruction of democracy. I feel quite confident that the detainee who is suspected of killing and mutilating four Blackwater Contractors in Fallujah (should he be found guilty) had no concern for “Punching” the faces of the contractors. Our thoughts and prayers go out with SO2 Matthew McCabe and his fellow SEAL’s. Although these may be trying times for you rest assure that you have the backing from the majority of the nation that you call home.
January 21st, 2010 at 8:54 am
this is crazy – all this for a punch – if it even happened.
the PC’ness in this country is out of control.
February 18th, 2010 at 7:10 am
These men did their duty. He was an enemy combatant, and is lucky to be alive. How far have we fallen as a nation that this kind of thing can happen….and what is wrong with the General Officers that they do not stop it….have they become that political and out of touch with what it means to be a ground combatant in war? What would have been done to Patton and his Men or the Men of the 101st/82nd from WWII if they served today? Heaven forbid we try and win a conflict. God Bless those SEALs, and God Save our Country.