Saturday, May 31, 2014

Bergdahl is free. Now we have to charge him with desertion.

via Defense One.
In a statement, President Barack Obama said, “Today the American people are pleased that we will be able to welcome home Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl, held captive for nearly 5 years. On behalf of the American people, I was honored to call his parents to express our joy that they can expect his safe return, mindful of their courage and sacrifice throughout this ordeal.”
Awesome.

While everyone is happy that the guy is back in US hands, we can't forget how he landed in this situation.

He walked away from his unit and into the hands of his captors.

That's desertion.  I imagine many will want to paper over that part of the story but if good order and discipline still are parts of our military culture then instead of awarding him a Prisoner's Medal, he rates a Bad Conduct Discharge.

We'll see if right wins or if political correctness carries the day.