Marine faces court-martial in deaths [Freeper quoted]

Dayton Daily News ^ | December 31, 2007 | Anthony Gottschlich

[Girlene]

Excellent idea, xzins. After perusing various threads (and stealing liberally from various posts), I came up with this letter to Rep. Michael Turner:

Representative Michael Turner Dayton Office 120 West Third Street Suite 305 Dayton, Ohio 45402

Dear Congressman Turner:

I am writing this letter due to my concern in the case against a constituent of yours, 1st Lt. Andrew Grayson, The 1st Lt. has just received news that he will face a court-martial on charges related to the deaths of 24 Iraqis in Haditha in 2005. Grayson will stand trial on charges of making false official statements, obstruction of justice and attempting to fraudulently obtain his discharge last summer.

1st Lt. Grayson had previously been recommended for the Bronze Star medal because of his actions on the day of the killings, according to his attorney, Joseph Casas. His attorney said the nomination praised Grayson for learning of two other roadside bombs from Iraqis he questioned after the attacks. He was also cited for obtaining information that led to the capture of two men who detonated the bomb that sparked the violence.

Three months ago government prosecutors offered to exonerate Grayson of all charges in return for admitting he lied to investigators. He refused to sell out his integrity. Now prosecutors have tacked on additional charges to include “attempting to falsely obtain a discharge” which was issued to him by the Marine Corps in error earlier in 2007. This latest charge appears to be a desperate attempt by the government to win their case at any cost.

I have included a copy of a tribute by his uncle which eloquently speaks to this young Marine’s character. I ask that you review 1st Lt. Grayson’s case and provide any aid within your means as his Congressman. The Haditha Marines have received national and worldwide scrutiny over the last two years. This Marine, who has served two combat tours in Iraq, deserves our support in fighting for his honor.

Enclosure A tribute to First Lieutenant Andrew Grayson [from a Haditha Marine Uncle]

[RedRover]

Which is why President Bush's insane scheme to bring JAG promotions under the White House has to be defeated.

AMEN!!!!!!!

[RedRover]

I came up with this letter to Rep. Michael Turner

Thanks for the contact info, xzins, and letter, Girl. That's a great idea, and hopefully will yield interest. One thing I've learned is that these cases always go better when they're in the public eye.

[xzins]

Watt Report is an excellent link.

It supports what has come out at trial.

House #2 used SAF against the Marines. That makes it hostile, and it means that this trial of Wuterich is purely and completely an effort to Monday morning quarterback a fire team that was in a life/death situation.

There is no way these young Marines should be accountable for their split-second reactions in combat when their lives were on the line.

[Just A Nobody]

Congratulations Red! You are famous!!! ;*)

It was something constructive to do after the defeat of Diana Irey in '06.

Those were sad days. Hard to believe more than a year has passed. Without your hard work and dedication to the cause, I shudder to think what may have happened to our valient heroes.

A very HAPPY NEW YEAR to the "Defend Our Marines" FReepers!

[Just A Nobody]

Lt Grayson's congressman. Rep. Turner is on the HOUSE ARMED SERVICES COMMITTEE.

Great idea! What about the other members of the House Armed Services Committee?

My Congressman is also a member and is certainly accustomed to hearing from me. ;*)

[xzins]

And, of course, Murtha is a member, too.

[Brad from Tennessee]

You’ve done an incredible job. Thanks. Semper Fi.

[xzins]

I take back the remark about Murtha being on the House Armed Services Committee.

I think he’s actually on the Armed Services subcommittee of the House Appropriations Committee.

[freema]

Representative Michael Turner. Haven’t heard of him. Probably because he hasn’t said squat.

He’s probably read the Times’ version and is a believer...

http://www.house.gov/miketurner/news/press.rel/3.8.07.shtml

[freema]

Sorry if my cynicism escaped.

[Girlene]

Don’t know much about Rep. Turner, either. However, he is 1st Lt. Grayson’s congressman and should be interested. If nothing else, your link to his press release requesting the Army Surgeion General to step down, shows Rep. Turner isn’t afraid of calling military leadership to task. (Not saying I agreed with him here.)

Justa had a good idea about other Freepers contacting their congressman about these Marines. The more exposure, and the more they question military higher ups, the better. Shining the light on these proceedings can’t hurt.

[Semper Fi Mom]

There is absolutely no way I could thank all of you for keeping this persecution of the Haditha Marines in the news. You have made it easier for us to get through each day. You have given your support and love unconditionally. You have helped raise much-needed money for their defense. You have delved far into the facts in this case and made sure everyone knew what they were. Quite frankly, I don’t know what I would have done without all of you.

[RedRover]

Why discourage people who are actually doing something?

[Girlene]

Semper Fi Mom, I’ve been thinking about you after the latest announcements and hoping your spirit remains strong. The government has overreached with Frank’s charges, IMO, and likely will not be able to get their convictions. If you have a congressman that would be appropriate for me to write to, I will do so. It may not do a lot since I am not one of their constituents, but every voice keeps these Marines’ plights from being ignored. Hoping 2008 brings great news for your family.

[Just A Nobody]

No problem, ma. I understand.

I must say I could start an entire thread on the link you posted. ;*)

[Just A Nobody]

I knew you’d get it. ;*)

[Just A Nobody]

I will most certainly be “borrowing heavily” from the letters you two penned. ;*)

[Just A Nobody]

It is the very least we can do for those that have given so much. Where would any of us be if not for those that defend us and the families that raised and support them?

Prayers for a much happier 2008 for you and your family.

[Girlene]

I will most certainly be “borrowing heavily” from the letters you two penned.

Go for it. I "borrowed heavily" from some excellent writers on these threads, myself. :-)