While stationed at Fort Dix, N.J., in 1967, I was detailed as a driver to transport prisoners to and from the stockade and their court-martial hearings.
I sat through numerous court-martials. Each trial was conducted with the highest standards of military decorum. Dignity and respect, even toward the defendant, were paramount.
The Army had a high percentage of draftees during that period, so there were many Article 15 court-martials (civilian equivalent to misdemeanors).
The Judge Advocate General’s office assigned the court’s officers. The prosecutor and defense attorneys were skilled commissioned officers with the ranks of 2nd lieutenant, 1st lieutenant and captain. The judges on the bench were highly experienced field grade officers, major, lieutenant colonel and colonel.
There was strict adherence to the Uniform Code of Military Justice. However, every case was conscientiously deliberated according to its particular circumstances. There is a big difference between a 19-year-old draftee who slips out the back door and catches a gypsy cab to New York City because his girlfriend goes into premature labor, only to return a week later, and someone who leaves and hides out for months until he is caught.
Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl stood in front of a military court composed of honorable military professionals whose integrity is beyond reproach. They deliberated the verdict after hearing all the evidence.
Donald Trump criticized their decision as a disgrace to the military and even once stated that Bergdahl should be “shot.”
Our five-time draft-dodging grifter in chief president has not lifted a finger in service to his country.
If patriotism were ranked, he has no standing with these fine men. He is below their grade.
Dan Bunch, Sandy