Four Former Members of 173rd Airborne BCT Receive Valor Awards at Fort Benning Ceremony

SSG Justin Grimm - Silver Star for 13 July 2008 Battle of Wanat, Afghanistan

SSG Clifton M Anderson, Jr - Bronze Star with V device for 23 June 2008 battle in Chowkay Valley, Afghanstan

SSG Michael J Lawrence - Bronze Star with V device for 23 June 2008 battle in Chowkay Valley, Afghanistan

SSG Zachari A Rushing - ARCOM with V device for his actions following a catastrophic IED strike in 2007 in Charbaran District, Afghanistan

"It's a great honor to get an award like this. But I'd say the greater honor was being able to be out there with Chosen Company. I think mainly I feel privileged to get this award on behalf of all the guys who fought out at Wanat." SSG Justin Grimm

MG Ferriter pins SS on SSG Grimm Dec 09 Wanat

"Great Day for The ROCK and EAGLE. MG Ferriter presented a Silver Star to SSG Grimm in front of his parents. SSG Anderson and SSG Lawrence received BSMVs - SSG Anderson's family was present - and SSG Rushing, an EAGLE (1-503) medic, received an ARCOMV the day after his daughter was born." COL William Ostlund, former Commander of 2-503 and current Deputy Commander, 75th Ranger Regiment

From Ledger-Enquirer.com Please follow the link to watch a exceptional video interview with SSG Grimm

Tuesday, Dec. 15, 2009

Fort Benning Airborne soldier awarded Silver Star

Staff Sgt. Justin D. Grimm honored for action in 2008 Afghan battle

By LILY GORDON - lgordon@ledger-enquirer.com

Staff Sgt. Justin D. Grimm was awarded the Silver Star — the nation’s third highest military decoration behind the Medal of Honor and the Distinguished Service Cross — in a ceremony held Monday on Fort Benning.

Grimm earned the Silver Star for his actions during the July 13, 2008, battle of Wanat in Afghanistan while assigned to Chosen Company, 2nd Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment (Airborne), 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team, Vincenza, Italy.

Two of Grimm’s fellow staff sergeants each received a Bronze Star.

“To get an award is great,” Grimm said following the ceremony, “but a lot of these tough fights, anybody out there — everybody out there — deserves a valor award. It’s just certain members get recognized. So, I don’t know the best way to describe it. It’s humbling.”

On the morning of July 13, as Chosen Company was preparing to leave Afghanistan after a 15-month tour of duty, their vehicle patrol base was attacked by about 200 insurgents. The battle lasted for hours. In the end, more than 50 insurgents were killed and nine American lives were lost. Twenty seven more Americans were wounded in action.

Grimm was serving as a squad leader when the insurgents struck.

“He immediately ran forward in order to prevent the enemy from overrunning one of the outposts,” his award citation says. “He manned a Squad Automatic Weapon in order to suppress the enemy and bring relief to the beleaguered defenders, and on numerous occasions left his covered position to render first aid to wounded soldiers and help move them to safety. Despite the heavy volume of accurate enemy fire impacting all around his position and forcing him to take cover, he refused to abandon his post, detonating a mine and lobbing grenades into the enemy ranks, thwarting their advance and forcing them to retreat.”

Staff Sgt. Clifton M. Anderson Jr. and Staff Sgt. Michael J. Lawrence, also assigned to Chosen Company, each received a Bronze Star with “V” Device for their actions during a separate battle in the Chowkay Valley on June 23, 2008.

“I’ve got to give it to my soldiers, basically,” Lawrence said of his honor. “The soldiers that served with me while I was there and fought right alongside with me. They deserve it just as much as I do.”

An Army Commendation Medal with “V” Device was given to senior line medic Staff Sgt. Zachari A. Rushing for his actions following a catastrophic improvised explosive device strike in 2007 in Charbaran District, Afghanistan. Rushing was assigned to D Company, 1st Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment.

Grimm, Anderson, Lawrence and Rushing are all currently assigned to units on Fort Benning.

Milblogs Go Silent in Support of CJ Grisham

Tankerbabelc
2 days ago
1 comment

CJ Grisham

On Wednesday 16 December 2009, many milblogs — including This Ain’t Hell, From My Position, Blackfive, Miss Ladybug, Boston Maggie, Grim’s Hall, and those participating in the Wednesday Hero program — are going silent for the day. Some are choosing to go silent for a longer period of time.

The reason for this is two-fold. First, milblogs are facing an increasingly hostile environment from within the military. While senior leadership has embraced blogging and social media, many field grade officers and senior NCOs do not embrace the concept. From general apathy in not wanting to deal with the issue to outright hositility to it, many commands are not only failing to support such activities, but are aggressively acting against active duty milbloggers, milspouses, and others. The number of such incidents appears to be growing, with milbloggers receiving reprimands, verbal and written, not only for their activities but those of spouses and supporters.

The catalyst has been the treatment of milblogger C.J. Grisham of A Soldier’s Perspective . C.J. has earned accolades and respect, from the White House on down for his honest, and sometimes blunt, discussion of issues — particularly PTSD. In the last few months, C.J. has seen an issue with a local school taken to his command who failed to back him, and has even seen his effort to deal with PTSD, and lead his men in same by example, used against him as a part of this. Ultimately, C.J. has had to sell his blog to help raise funds for his defense in this matter.

An excellent story on the situation with C.J. can be found at Military Times. While there have been new developments, the core problem remains, and C.J. is having to raise funds to cover legal expenses to protect both his good name and his career.

One need only look at the number of blogs by active duty military in combat zones and compare it to just a few years ago to see the chilling effect that is taking place.

Milblogs have been a vital link in getting accurate news and information about the military, and military operations, to the public. They have provided vital context and analysis on issues critical to operations and to the informed electorate critical to the Republic.

On Wednesday 16 December, readers will have the chance to imagine a world without milblogs, and to do something about it. Those participating are urging their readers to contact their elected representatives in Congress, and to let their opinions be known to them and to other leaders in Washington.

Some milblogs will remain silent for several days; some just for the day. All have agreed to keep the post about the silence and C.J. at the top of their blogs until Friday 18 December.
The issues go beyond C.J., and deserve careful consideration and discussion. We hope that you will cover this event, and explore the issues that lie at the heart of the matter. Contact the milbloggers in your area or that you know, and hear the story that lies within.

More info at Blackfive

From This Ain't Hell a partial list of milblogs participating:

This Ain’t Hell
Boston Maggie
Blackfive
Miss Ladybug
Drunken Wisdom
Grim’s Hall
Frommyposition
CDR Salamander
Bouhammer
You Served
Delta Bravo Sierra
PVT Murphy
Another Voice
Laughing Wolf
The Burnpit
Homefront Six
Yankee Mom
Another Voice
Confederate Yankee
Free Republic
Concrete Bob at United Conservatives for Virginia
The Canadians join us at What the F*&#!?!?

It's Done! Loss for Government As Board of Inquiry Rules LtCol Chessani Not Guilty of Misconduct

Loss for Government As Board of Inquiry Rules LtCol Chessani Not Guilty of Misconduct

December 14, 2009

Chessani Case - Rob Muise BOI Cropped # 3 name ANN ARBOR, MI – Late last Friday afternoon (Eastern Standard Time), after three hours of deliberation, the military Board of Inquiry ruled LtCol Chessani was not guilty of misconduct and should not be demoted.

Nevertheless, the Board’s ruling produced a mixed result. It ruled Chessani must now retire because he displayed “substandard performance” by failing to conduct a more detailed investigation of the civilians killed as a result of the house clearing actions of four Marines after they were ambushed in Haditha, Iraq on November 19, 2005.

The Board’s decision came after a 1½ hour impassioned closing argument on behalf of LtCol Chessani made by Thomas More Law Center attorney Robert Muise. Muise argued Chessani was a scapegoat to appease the anti-war media and anti-war politician John Murtha. “Here’s your scapegoat. Here’s your fall guy, ” said Muise as he pointed at Chessani, who sat silently at the defense table.

Richard Thompson, President and Chief Counsel of the Thomas More Law Center, commented, “It’s indicative of the weakness of the government’s case that it could not prove misconduct at the Board hearing where the normal rules of evidence didn’t apply and the burden of proof was lessened. We are all greatly relieved that the Board ruled LtCol Chessani was not guilty of misconduct and should not be demoted, However, I believe the overwhelming evidence supported a total and complete exoneration of LtCol Chessani.”

Not one of LtCol Chessni’s superiors ─ including top generals ─ who received his report of dead civilians considered such deaths unusual. Not one ordered a further investigation. Instead, they commended him for a job well done. In fact, LtCol Chessani’s immediate superior told him that no investigation was needed because it was a bona fide combat action - consistent with the orders in effect at the time: no investigation of civilian deaths related to combat action. That order was changed in April, 2006, well after the Haditha incident.

LtCol Chessani’s commanding general, Major General Huck, reported up the chain of command, “I support our account and do not see the necessity for further investigation.” This same commanding General was allowed to retire without going to a Board of Inquiry, and he was allowed to retire as a Major General.

Consequently, not one of LtCol Chessani’s superiors faced, nor will they ever face, a court-martial or a Board of Inquiry for their actions in relation to November 19, 2005.

Of the eight Marines initially charged in the incident, six Marines, including Chessani, had criminal charges dismissed and one was acquitted. Only one Marine still faces criminal charges.

The Thomas More Law Center defends and promotes America’s Christian heritage and moral values, including the religious freedom of Christians, time-honored family values, and the sanctity of human life. It supports a strong national defense and an independent and sovereign United States of America. The Law Center accomplishes its mission through litigation, education, and related activities. It does not charge for its services. The Law Center is supported by contributions from individuals, corporations and foundations, and is recognized by the IRS as a section 501(c)(3) organization. You may reach the Thomas More Law Center at (734) 827-2001 or visit our website at www.thomasmore.org.

Link to Board of Inquiry Order
http://www.thomasmore.org/downloads/sb_thomasmore/ChessaniBOIAugust2009.pdf

A Different Christmas Poem

Tankerbabelc
5 days ago
1 comment

I'm not really sure what year this poem was first published but each year it holds just as much meaning. This year, for me, is much more bitter sweet than any other. May God Bless and keep our troops and their families in his comforting embrace.

The embers glowed softly, and in their dim light,
I gazed round the room and I cherished the sight.
My wife was asleep, her head on my chest,
My daughter beside me, angelic in rest.
Outside the snow fell, a blanket of white,
Transforming the yard to a winter delight.

The sparkling lights in the tree I believe,
Completed the magic that was Christmas Eve.
My eyelids were heavy, my breathing was deep,
Secure and surrounded by love I would sleep.
In perfect contentment, or so it would seem,
So I slumbered, perhaps I started to dream.

The sound wasn't loud, and it wasn't too near,
But I opened my eyes when it tickled my ear..
Perhaps just a cough, I didn't quite know, Then the
sure sound of footsteps outside in the snow.
My soul gave a tremble, I struggled to hear,
And I crept to the door just to see who was near.

Standing out in the cold and the dark of the night,
A lone figure stood, his face weary and tight.
A soldier, I puzzled, some twenty years old,
Perhaps a Marine, huddled here in the cold.
Alone in the dark, he looked up and smiled,
Standing watch over me, and my wife and my child.

"What are you doing?" I asked without fear,
"Come in this moment, it's freezing out here!
Put down your pack, brush the snow from your sleeve,
You should be at home on a cold Christmas Eve!"
For barely a moment I saw his eyes shift,
Away from the cold and the snow blown in drifts..

To the window that danced with a warm fire's light
Then he sighed and he said "Its really all right,
I'm out here by choice. I'm here every night."
"It's my duty to stand at the front of the line,
That separates you from the darkest of times.

No one had to ask or beg or implore me,
I'm proud to stand here like my fathers before me.
My Gramps died at ' Pearl on a day in December,"
Then he sighed, "That's a Christmas 'Gram always remembers.."
My dad stood his watch in the jungles of ' Nam ',
And now it is my turn and so, here I am.

I've not seen my own son in more than a while,
But my wife sends me pictures, he's sure got her smile.
Then he bent and he carefully pulled from his bag,
The red, white, and blue... an American flag.
I can live through the cold and the being alone,
Away from my family, my house and my home.

I can stand at my post through the rain and the sleet,
I can sleep in a foxhole with little to eat.
I can carry the weight of killing another,
Or lay down my life with my sister and brother..
Who stand at the front against any and all,
To ensure for all time that this flag will not fall.."

"So go back inside," he said, "harbor no fright,
Your family is waiting and I'll be all right."
"But isn't there something I can do, at the least,
"Give you money," I asked, "or prepare you a feast?
It seems all too little for all that you've done,
For being away from your wife and your son."

Then his eye welled a tear that held no regret,
"Just tell us you love us, and never forget.
To fight for our rights back at home while we're gone,
To stand your own watch, no matter how long.
For when we come home, either standing or dead,
To know you remember we fought and we bled.
Is payment enough, and with that we will trust,
That we mattered to you as you mattered to us."

PLEASE, would you do me the kind favor of sending this to as many
people as you can? Christmas will be coming soon and some credit is due to our
U.S service men and women for our being able to celebrate these
festivities. Let's try in this small way to pay a tiny bit of what we owe. Make people
stop and think of our heroes, living and dead, who sacrificed themselves for us.

LCDR Jeff Giles, SC, USN
30th Naval Construction Regiment
OIC, Logistics Cell One
Al Taqqadum, Iraq

“Grunt Civilian” Gives Account of LtCol. Chessani's many Character Witnesses

“Grunt Civilian” Gives Account of LtCol. Chessani's many Character Witnesses

December 10, 2009

Email post (#2) by H. Hamilton – A report written by a concerned CA citizen attending the Board of Inquiry for LtCol Jeffrey Chessani.

IF the Board of Inquiry doesn't find Lt Col. Chessani INNOCENT of all charges, accusations, and wrong doing, it won't be the fault of Thomas More Law Center! Lead by Col. Shelburne and Robert Muse, this is one of the BEST, nothing gets by, DEFENSE TEAMS this court observer has ever witnessed.

A finding other than "DROP THESE RIDICULOUS CHARGES BECAUSE CHESSANI IS ACTUALLY SUPERMAN!" would be because the Board is deaf, dumb, and blind! (or the fix is in...)

As I entered the court room, late, a phone caller was giving information on how he would figure out Chessani's retirement based on his 22 years, 3 months service with regards to the Board's decision of IF he had to retire, and IF as a LtColonel or a Major. (Considering Chessani was a fast tracked officer who would have been at least a full Colonel by now, punishment has already been instituted and THAT is a travesty! Anything lower is double indemnity if you ask me...)

Today may have been the easiest day for the Defense... One after another, a parade of long term Marine co-officers and friends, even his pastor, as character witnesses, barraged the Board and prosecution with a long list of detailed compliments to the great Lt. Colonel...

Colonel Paul Greg Allen (ret.), a formidable man with a 30 year 8 mos. career, said Chessani was a "Natural leader on one of the most demanding tours (both Battles of Fallujah) and I was excited to get him there..." Chessani is, "Proactive... Quality exceptionally high... Never an over reaction as a commander..." When asked if there was a noticable difference when Chessani was relieved of duty -- "There was never a grievance, his work product was no different..." (And something like) lesser men sacrifice their integrity -- Not Lt. Col Chessani! (I couldn't write fast enough!) "Highest moral integrity -- Absolute integrity!" Allen had seen "many opportunities to stumble and fall and he (Chessani) has never done that." "Command confidence under extreme conditions -- no stripping Marines of their dignity when chastised -- Top 1% or 2% of ALL Marines I've served with -- ONE OF A HANDFUL OF OFFICERS I'D TRUST IN COMBAT WITH MY ONLY SON, MY WIFE'S LIFE, AND MY OWN..." (Yeah, WOW!!!)

Pastor Ernest Ferdinand (Marcus?) Merritt, an exceptional man with an exceptionally more than pleasant disposition, who had coincidently served in the USMC... Admittedly, I was spellbound... I took no notes -- I was also watching the Board Members to see IF they had any reaction, any signs of humanity, with all of the BEAUTIFUL things said so vividly about the Chessani Family, the devotion, the close friendship of their wives and kids, Mrs. Chessani's Sunday School teaching, the Congregation always giving the most votes to Jeffrey Chessani for the top committees which Jeffrey turned down 3 years ago so as not to blemish the Congregation -- at the Congregation's insistence, he has since accepted the 2 posts... A Man For All Seasons...

Sgt. Maj. William Shaw -- BAM! (They had to slow him down at one point for the court stenographer's sake! Mine too!!) 20 years active duty and a ton of duty including amphibious assault... GREAT ENERGY! Spoke to Chessani's always being out amongst the men, never micro-managing, "Very Patient like a father... ALWAYS open and willing to talk about concerns..." LtCol. Chessani was one of the top 2 commanders out of all 20 he'd ever worked with... "Great character, Moral compass, Warrior, Trainer..." When asked if he'd ever want to serve under the LtCol. again? "I WOULD SEEK IT OUT!"

Lt. Col. Carla Maureen(?) Jessup, now Provost Marshall in K. Bay, HI... A WOMAN OF GREAT SUBSTANCE! Anti-terrorist, Battalion Commander, Perris Island, a whole bunch of stuff!! She's known the LtCol. and his family for almost 25 years BECAUSE THE CHESSANI'S ALWAYS HAD THE NON-MARRIEDS OVER TO THEIR HOUSE FOR MEALS AND FOR CERTAIN, CHRISTMAS!! "Most honest leader of Marines... Genuinely cares for the people around him... HE ALWAYS DOES THE RIGHT THING 'CAUSE IT'S THE RIGHT THING TO DO..." Has never known him to or would never expect him to ignore ANY kind of problem..." "He cares for everybody the same... MY FAITH HAS BECOME STRONGER BECAUSE OF HIM... I BELIEVE JEFF HAS VALIANTLY SERVED THE CORPS AND HIS MARINES."

Colonel B. Byrne: (After A 40 minute break, I entered late... Then it was hard to keep up, I'm no pro...) Byrne was in charge of fitness reports of Majors, (GUESS WHO WAS AND STILL HOLDS THE #1 PLACE of ALL Majors reviewed?! Yup, Chessani!) RE 1st and 2nd Fallujah fights -- "Exceptional!" He described a number of circumstances in a very large battlespace that included Fallujah, Abu Ghraib, Zadon, etc. where information had to be communicated to his Bravo Command, 4 Marines killed in complex attack ambush... (not unlike Haditha...) The Battle for Fallujah occurred within 10 days of Chessani's arrival, no question he knew what to do, had experienced a child being killed in a house and he knew to report up the command, Regimental Command would make the decision to investigate, if not, you move forward... As to Military Character, "Jeff is an exceptional officer." As to Personal Character, "Jeff has a personal sense of honor that motivates him." (It is important to note that Chessani is accussed of never having "investigated" the civilian deaths in Haditha... RIDICULOUS!) After Byrne had explicitly said that Reg Command makes the decision to investigate after the reports are "pushed up and pushed down," General Craparata asked the absurd -- "But don't you think that it is your duty to investigate every civilian death?" Answer: NO! NOT IF IT IS A BONAFIDE COMBAT ACTION and you CAN'T investigate IF YOU'RE IN THE FIGHT! (AS IN HADITHA!!) Then Byrne added something very poignant, "And if one of YOUR Marines is thought to be culpable, YOU MAY NOT INVESTIGATE IT YOURSELF! (obvious reasons -- but that's exactly what the Board wanted!)

Since there was a long break before General Toolan's testimony and my children needed me, I had to drop the ball................. We'll find out tomorrow -- AND TOMORROW IS (ARE?) CLOSING ARGUMENTS!!

IF ANYONE IS WONDERING IF THEIR DONATION TO THOMAS MORE LAW CENTER ON BEHALF OF LT.COL.CHESSANI WAS WORTH IT -- IT'S THE BEST MONEY YOU EVER SPENT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This email was written and submitted by a private citizen not affiliated with the Thomas More Law Center.

LtCol Chessani's BOI Continues - Marine Officers Substantiate his Innocence

LtCol Chessani’s Board of Inquiry Continues ─ “Stand Up” Marine Officers Substantiate LtCol Chessani’s Innocence

December 10, 2009

ANN ARBOR, MI – There was some good news in yesterday’s Board of Inquiry hearing taking place at Camp Pendleton, California. Despite the obvious bias of their high command, “stand-up” Marine officers, Majors Jeffrey Dinsmore and Luke McConnell, in strong and unequivocal testimony, substantiated LtCol Chessani’s innocence.

Today, a long line of “stand up” field grade officers and enlisted men who served with LtCol Chessani are expected to testify as to his outstanding military character.

Chessani Case - Dinsmore headshot & name

Major Jeffrey Dinsmore was LtCol Chessani’s intelligence officer. He has served as an active-duty Marine for over 23 years. In yesterday’s testimony, he informed Board members of the complexity of the daylong engagement in Haditha on November 19, 2005. He also informed the Board his intelligence assessment before November 19, 2005 indicated Marines were going to be attacked in Hadtiha that day. Follow-on intelligence after November 19, 2005 confirmed to Major Dinsmore and LtCol Chessani that the attack on November 19, 2005 was one they were expecting from foreign fighters—namely Syrians.

Chessani Case - McConnell headshot & name

Next to testify, was Major Luke McConnell, company commander of the Marines originally charged in the case. He explained to Board members that he spoke to his Marines, as their commanding officer, during and after the engagement. He personally fought in the engagement. He confirmed his company was in a daylong battle with insurgents. He also went to where the Marines entered homes to clear out insurgents. Major McConnell was briefed by Lieutenant Kallop, the units platoon leader, that he ordered the Marines to clear the homes of insurgents and unfortunately there were civilians killed as collateral damage.

Major McConnell testified that all the Marines he spoke to that day confirmed in his mind the Marines were doing the right thing. Major McConnell testified LtCol Chessani came to Major McConnell’s battle space to be debriefed by him. LtCol Chessani and Major McConnell toured the battle space together and spoke about the days events. Several times after November 19, 2005 Major McConnell and LtCol Chessani spoke about the Marines actions in great detail.

The bad news, as predicted, the government, in its efforts to disgrace and destroy LtCol Chessani, has consistently ignored the rules of fundamental fairness by introducing tainted evidence from other cases that had nothing to do with the allegations against LtCol Chessani, and which would never be allowed in court-martial proceedings.

Part of the evidence the government recently introduced is forensic reconstruction of where the Marines assaulted through residential structures from which they were fired upon. These Marines include Lance Corporals Tatum and Sharratt, who have since been exonerated. This evidence was refuted at earlier hearings.

Furthermore, the government was allowed to introduce evidence clearly not relevant to whether LtCol Chessani was substandard in performance of duty or willfully negligent in not accurately reporting the day of the battle (November 19, 2005). Much of the problematic evidence being placed on the record comes from the enlisted Marines’ cases, which do not involve issues before this board. The most egregious evidence allowed has been pictures of dead civilians that LtCol Chessani never saw, meant only to inflame the Board members— including giant, poster size blow-ups of the dead.

Tomorrow the board will hear closing arguments.
The Thomas More Law Center, a national public interest law firm based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, has been defending LtCol Chessani at no charge. The Law Center’s attorneys, Robert Muise and Brian Rooney, both former Marine officers, have teamed up with the detailed military attorneys, LtCol Jon Shelburne, USMC, and Capt Jeffrey King, USMC.

The misconduct allegations against LtCol Chessani claim he failed to properly report and investigate the November 19, 2005 Haditha incident. However, the indisputable evidence proves LtCol Chessani immediately reported the deaths of the 15 civilian Iraqis to his superiors.

Not one of his Marine superiors hearing of the civilian deaths ─ including top generals ─ considered it unusual. Not one ordered a further investigation. Instead, they commended him for a job well done. In fact, LtCol Chessani’s immediate superior told him no investigation was needed because it was a bona fide combat action ─ consistent with orders in effect at the time: no investigation of civilian deaths related to combat action. That order was changed in April, 2006, well after the Haditha incident.

LtCol Chessani’s commanding general, Major General Huck, reported up the chain of command, “I support our account and do not see the necessity for further investigation.” This same commanding General was allowed to retire without going to a Board of Inquiry, and he was allowed to retire as a Major General.

Consequently, not one of LtCol Chessani’s superiors faced, nor will they ever face, a court-martial or a Board of Inquiry for their actions in relation to November 19, 2005.

Of the eight Marines initially charged in the incident, six Marines, including Chessani, had criminal charges dismissed and one was acquitted. Only one Marine still faces criminal charges.

The Thomas More Law Center defends and promotes America’s Christian heritage and moral values, including the religious freedom of Christians, time-honored family values, and the sanctity of human life. It supports a strong national defense and an independent and sovereign United States of America. The Law Center accomplishes its mission through litigation, education, and related activities. It does not charge for its services. The Law Center is supported by contributions from individuals, corporations and foundations, and is recognized by the IRS as a section 501(c)(3) organization. You may reach the Thomas More Law Center at (734) 827-2001 or visit our website at www.thomasmore.org.

Link to Board of Inquiry Order
http://www.thomasmore.org/downloads/sb_thomasmore/ChessaniBOIAugust2009.pdf

Direct from Camp Pendleton, First Hand Account of Chessani Board of Inquiry

Direct from the Pendleton Battlefront, A Self Described “Grunt Civilian” gives First Hand Account of Chessani Board Of Inquiry (BOI)...

December 09, 2009

Email post by H. Hamilton – The report from a concerned CA citizen attending the Board of Inquiry for LtCol Jeffrey Chessani.

 Today (12-08-09) started with LtCol Kevin Gonzalez who was GREAT AND 3-4 HOURS!

 Brigadier General Lewis Craparotta (Board member) and the Defense stopped the ongoing, ad nauseum questioning of witnesses since Board already has testimony...

 Lieutenant Colonel Brian Christmas (under Colonel Stephen Davis who says Davis is his hero) was great and another Chessani protagonist who was with Davis 19 Nov '05...

 Colonel Christopher Conlin was there but they've cancelled him, Colonel David Furness too...

 Colonel Julian Alford spoke in the afternoon -- he has been with Chessani throughout their careers and reassured the Board that IF there was any question of the LAW OF WAR being broken, Chessani would have investigated...

 Lieutenant General Natonski (USMC Forces Command) was there... He said EVERY civilian kill, every time, should be investigated -- pretty funny when the Defense asked him if that went for the 2nd Battle for Fallujah and he had to say "No" -- he added that all civilians had been asked to leave so they were "pretty sure" all kills were insurgents... yeah, right... BUT when he started, everything he said was what Chessani HAD done, LTG Natonski was saying things about trusting subordinates to get you the right info was essential (Chessani did!), that it was a "Marine's duty" and the "expectations" were to trust the reports coming up and with ensuing correctional reports changes made (Chessani and Davis did!). SO when asked why he's relieved Chessani of his command, LTG Natonski said it was more than just the killings... It was also:

o The Humvee that tipped over (oh goodness! My son-in-law as a 1st Lt.
o ran a Humvee into a small canal on his first time out in the thing which was great fun for his entire platoon making fun of his "education!!! ...He's now a Company Commander...)
o A HAZING that took place (Oh NO not a hazing!! In the military?!! I thought that was just for college kids and Boy Scouts!)
o The Sky news episode that maybe Don or Clo knows about -- something with a sniper? (They probably killed a nice insurgent...)
o A (better sit down...) HIGH STAKES poker game... Yup, the amount: TWO tril... mmmil... no, thousand dollars... that's $2,000.00 -- TOTALLY OUT OF CONTROL...

 When LTG Natonski was done and heading for the door we all had to stand...As he approached the door, he looked neither left nor right... I was at the door so out of respect for the man who had spoken of THE RIGHT THINGS TO DO, I opened it for him AND his minion followed, neither one saying THANK YOU..... So I put my head out the door and loudly whispered, "YOU'RE WELCOME!" at his back -- @?#*~!

12/09 witnesses: 8:00am

1. Major General Richard P. Mills (by phone from Afghanistan) Commander, 1st Marine Division.
2. Major Dinsmoor
3. Major McConnell
4. Hyatt

12/10 Thursday

1. Allen
2. Jessop
3. Shaw (?)
4. Merritt
5. Drake
6. Toolan

Congressional Candidate Lieutenant Colonel Allen West

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Congressional candidate Lieutenant Colonel West speaking at the American Freedom tour in Fort Lauderdale Florida at the Revolution Nightclub.
For more information about the West for Congress campaign or to become involved please follow this link http://allenwestforcongress.com/.

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LtCol Chessani's BOI Begins - Marine Veterans Watch in Dismay

LtCol Chessani’s Board of Inquiry Begins ─ Battle-Hardened Marine Veterans View Proceedings With Dismay

December 04, 2009

Chessani Case - Jeff and Alissa

ANN ARBOR, MI – On Wednesday, December 2nd, in a military courtroom at Camp Pendleton, California, the government began its case against an American warrior. They know this is their last chance to disgrace and destroy the 22 - year career of Marine LtCol Jeffrey Chessani, and it’s evident they are pulling out all the stops.

Many of the spectators in the small courtroom were battle-hardened Marine veterans of World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. Some were veterans of the Korean Chosin Reservoir battle, considered the most violent small unit fighting in the history of American warfare. All the veterans looked on in disbelief as government lawyers ridiculed a loyal combat officer. The consensus among these battle-hardened veterans ─ they never would have won their battles had their officers been subjected to the same kind of treatment as LtCol Chessani.

LtCol Chessani had served 3 tours of duty in Iraq and was considered one of America’s most effective combat commanders. Chessani, a deeply religious man who read his Bible every morning and evening while in Iraq, stoically listened to the government lawyer’s demeaning remarks, while his wife, pregnant with their seventh child, sat behind him reading her Bible.

Richard Thompson, President of the Thomas More Law Center commented: “What has happened to LtCol Chessani is a good argument to get rid of lawyers in the combat arms. Combat troops don’t need pencil pushers second guessing commanders and troops in the field, long after an event, in their air-condition offices. The fact that this hearing is even taking place does a grave injustice, not only to Chessani and his family, but to America. LtCol Chessani should be leading his troops, not defending himself in a courtroom.”

LtCol Paul Atterbury, the government prosecutor (called “Recorders” at a Board of Inquiry) presented the opening statement for the government, claiming there was no firefight. He claimed that the Marines faced a phantom menace, and LtCol Chessani did not properly investigate and report the overreaction of his Marines.

LtCol Jon Shelburne, one of Chessani’s defense lawyers, countered that Marines were ambushed in this daylong battle and were engaged in a protracted pitched fight against well-armed insurgents. LtCol Shelburne further stated that LtCol Chessani reported all he knew of the battle, as he knew it, up the chain of command.

The differences between the Board of Inquiry and the previous court martial quickly became evident. Col Kurt Brubaker, USMC, the legal advisor to the Board of Inquiry, is tasked with ruling on all objections. Even though photographs of dead Iraqis would not have been allowed into evidence at the previous criminal trial because they were unduly prejudicial and had little relevance, particularly since LtCol Chessani never saw them, the legal advisor will allow the government to show them to the hearing panel because the rules of evidence to not apply.

Moreover, defense attempts to disqualify Brig. Gen. Lewis Craparotta, the President and senior member of the Board, who during pre-hearing questioning expressed a personal view that investigating every civilian death is the right approach because “that’s the way to protect Marines, ” also failed. Defense attorney LtCol Shelburne had challenged the fact that he was sitting on the Board of Inquiry with a pre-existing opinion of what to do in a similar situation as LtCol Chessani. The Board’s legal advisor rehabilitated Craparotta by personally questioning him to show he could set aside his opinion, and then ruled he could stay on the panel.

The legal advisor, however, did prevent the introduction of the former Article 32 hearing report on the grounds that its conclusions went to the ultimate issue that the board members were required to decide independently.

A Board of Inquiry is an administrative board where the rules of evidence do not apply. Evidence that would likely be thrown out in a criminal proceeding may be considered by the Board. The government’s burden of proof is lessened. Rather than having to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt, the government only has to prove “misconduct” by a preponderance of evidence.

If the Board finds “misconduct, ” then they will further determine whether LtCol Chessani should be forced to retire or not. If the Board determines LtCol Chessani should retire, then the Board must then make a recommendation to the Secretary of the Navy as to whether he should retire as a Lieutenant Colonel, or as a Major—a decision that could cost this Marine and his family over four hundred thousand dollars in pay and benefits according to an expert retained by the defense.

The Thomas More Law Center, a national public interest law firm based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, has been defending LtCol Chessani at no charge. The Law Center’s attorneys, Robert Muise and Brian Rooney, both former Marine officers, have teamed up with the detailed military attorneys, LtCol Jon Shelburne, USMC, and Capt Jeffrey King, USMC.

The dismissed criminal charges against LtCol Chessani were triggered by a heart-pounding house-to-house, room-by-room combat action taken by four Marines in his battalion after being ambushed by insurgents in Haditha, Iraq on November 19, 2005. Along with several insurgents, 15 civilians also died in this day long fight. The civilian casualties were tragic, but not uncommon in Iraq where insurgents would use them as shields.

The “misconduct” allegations against LtCol Chessani are based on the following: failing to properly report and investigate the November 19, 2005 incident. However, the indisputable evidence shows that LtCol Chessani immediately reported the deaths of the 15 civilian Iraqis to his superiors.

Not one of his Marine superiors hearing of the civilian deaths ─ including top generals ─ considered it unusual. Not one ordered a further investigation. Instead, they commended him for a job well done. In fact, LtCol Chessani’s immediate superior told him that no investigation was needed because it was a bona fide combat action—which was consistent with the orders in effect at the time: no investigation of civilian deaths related to combat action. That order was changed in April, 2006, well after the Haditha incident.

LtCol Chessani’s commanding general, Major General Huck, reported up the chain of command, “I support our account and do not see the necessity for further investigation.” This same commanding General was allowed to retire without going to a Board of Inquiry, and he was allowed to retire as a Major General.

Consequently, not one of LtCol Chessani’s superiors faced, nor will they ever face, a court-martial or a Board of Inquiry for their actions in relation to November 19, 2005.
Of the eight Marines initially charged in the incident, six Marines, including Chessani, had criminal charges dismissed and one was acquitted. Only one Marine still faces criminal charges.

Live testimony at the Board of Inquiry will begin on December 7, 2009.

The Thomas More Law Center defends and promotes America’s Christian heritage and moral values, including the religious freedom of Christians, time-honored family values, and the sanctity of human life. It supports a strong national defense and an independent and sovereign United States of America. The Law Center accomplishes its mission through litigation, education, and related activities. It does not charge for its services. The Law Center is supported by contributions from individuals, corporations and foundations, and is recognized by the IRS as a section 501(c)(3) organization. You may reach the Thomas More Law Center at (734) 827-2001 or visit our website at www.thomasmore.org.

Link to Board of Inquiry Order
http://www.thomasmore.org/downloads/sb_thomasmore/ChessaniBOIAugust2009.pdf

3-61 CAV FRG Says "Thank You" To Those Who Helped Their Soldiers After The Battle at COP Keating

Tankerbabelc
Dec 3, 2009
2 comments

Those of you who, either through Bob Connolly or me, so quickly and generously stepped up to help resupply the survivors of COP Keating have probably received the following "thank you" from the 3-61 B Troop FRG. If you have not received a thank you from them but have seen one that someone else has received or are reading this that would be MY FAULT. I tried to keep a spreadsheet of who donated, what was donated and an email or mailing address. My intent was to share the information with the unit to let them know everyone who joined in our efforts. For three days in a row I received over 1,000 emails each day and I imagine a few probably slipped through the cracks. If you haven't received a "thank you" please email me so that I can rectify that and let the unit know who you are

Dear Black Knight Troop Supporters,

On behalf of the Black Knight FRG, 3-61 Cavalry, we want to thank you for your generous donation. Your support provides great strength for our soldiers in Afghanistan and the families back home.

October 3, 2009 is a day that we will never forget. The attack on Combat Outpost (COP) Keating and Observation Post (OP) Fritsche was a hard-fought battle and has changed the lives of so many of our soldiers and their families. We will always remember the lives of SGT Joshua Kirk, SGT Justin Gallegos, SGT Joshua Hardt, SPC Michael Scusa, SPC Christopher Griffin, SPC Stephan Mace, PFC Kevin Thomson, and SGT Vernon Martin. Their service to our country and their sacrifices will never be forgotten.

Each soldier in Black Knight troop is a true American hero. As the soldiers were focused on surviving during more than 12 hours of intense combat, more than 70% of their buildings caught fire. As you know, many lost everything they had. Please know that your donations and quick response helped our soldiers get back on their feet quickly. They are strong soldiers who have become closer through this very challenging time.

Your support has given all the families back home peace of mind that their soldiers are being very well taken care of. We appreciate your kindness and generosity. Thank you for your patriotism and support to Black Knight Troop, 3-61 CAV.

Sincerely,
Black Knight FRG