President Obama commutes Chelsea (Bradley) Manning's sentence. What precedent does this set?

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 Jan 2017 16:32:52 -0500

Response by SGT Dave Tracy made Jan 17 at 2017 4:34 PM

SGT Dave Tracy — Tue, 17 Jan 2017 16:34:27 -0500

Oh good Lord.
(Shakes head)

Sets a bad precedent.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 17 at 2017 4:38 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 Jan 2017 16:38:24 -0500

To be released in 5 months? OH FFS!!!! Sparky better have a damn plane ticket to a hole in the wall third world country and be taken right to the airport.....because there is no place in this country he will be safe. As soon as some crazy civilian and/or veteran finds out where he lives.....not going to be pretty.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 17 at 2017 4:41 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 Jan 2017 16:41:17 -0500

At least it wasn't Berghdal....

Response by LTC Kevin B. made Jan 17 at 2017 4:46 PM

LTC Kevin B. — Tue, 17 Jan 2017 16:46:18 -0500

I'm not overly bothered by this. From what I've been able to quickly find on the web, there have only been a handful of similar leak cases, and most of the sentences are only a few years. His/her sentence was already an extreme outlier (35 years), and it still will be an outlier after the commutation (7 years). It's not like Manning was pardoned.

Response by LTC Trent Klug made Jan 17 at 2017 4:48 PM

LTC Trent Klug — Tue, 17 Jan 2017 16:48:41 -0500

It sets a very bad precedent. So were I a convicted spy, I would be throwing paper in every federal court I could have my lawyer step foot in.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 17 at 2017 5:06 PM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 Jan 2017 17:06:50 -0500

I don't think it sets a precedence. Presidential commuting of sentences does not affect other court proceedings. But, I think it is wrong.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 17 at 2017 5:10 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 Jan 2017 17:10:20 -0500

Gen. James Cartwright is also on the list.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 17 at 2017 5:24 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 Jan 2017 17:24:24 -0500

Well since previous leak cases had sentences in the 1 to 3 year range and Manning has already served 7, I would say it makes no precedent at all, especially as every president tends to do this on their way out, in accordance with said president's ideology.

Not surprising at all, and in my opinion, a non-issue.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 17 at 2017 5:33 PM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 Jan 2017 17:33:04 -0500

All this huffing and puffing over Wikileaks and they commute the sentence that gave them their start. Soooo, can we stop talking about Wikileaks and Russian hacking now? What will the left have left to discuss now...DAMNIT! :-)

Response by CSM Chuck Stafford made Jan 17 at 2017 5:33 PM

CSM Chuck Stafford — Tue, 17 Jan 2017 17:33:57 -0500

Think of it as saving the tax-payers the cost of an operation.

Response by SFC George Smith made Jan 17 at 2017 6:20 PM

SFC George Smith — Tue, 17 Jan 2017 18:20:32 -0500

disgusting

Response by MSgt Richard Randall made Jan 17 at 2017 6:25 PM

MSgt Richard Randall — Tue, 17 Jan 2017 18:25:37 -0500

I’m not surprised. I wouldn’t be totally shocked to see Hillary receive a pardon for all possible criminal infractions she may have committed while Secretary of State. I’d really like to see Sessions empanel a grand jury and put everyone involved in this mail cover up thing under oath. That would include Bill, Comey, Valerie, and Lynch. I’m going to sit over in the corner and hold my breath.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 17 at 2017 6:50 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 Jan 2017 18:50:02 -0500

Ask Snowden.

Response by LTC Erik Spike Thiesmeyer, Sr. made Jan 17 at 2017 8:07 PM

LTC Erik Spike Thiesmeyer, Sr. — Tue, 17 Jan 2017 20:07:16 -0500

I too am not surprised. I expect he'll pardon Bergdahl and Clinton in the next few days. It just proves the hypocrisy of this administration over the last eight years. Friday is going to be a great day!

Response by 1SG Al Brown made Jan 17 at 2017 8:37 PM

1SG Al Brown — Tue, 17 Jan 2017 20:37:08 -0500

I'm sorry, my head just exploded. Give me a second. Manning was reasonably intelligent, clever, manipulative, extraordinarily disruptive, mildly evil, certainly a traitor and a deviate. Now he will be released because he's popular with the outgoing party. However, he's also destructive, so he'll kill himself as soon as he realizes that no one cares anymore. There won't be a precedent set here. These stars will never re-align.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 17 at 2017 9:15 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 Jan 2017 21:15:47 -0500

LTC Private RallyPoint Member Sir, this is setting a bad precedent. Manning should have served his full sentence.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 17 at 2017 9:21 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 Jan 2017 21:21:04 -0500

A crappy one but is indicative of his "leadership". Is it Friday yet?

Response by CPT Daniel Walk, M.B.A. made Jan 17 at 2017 9:27 PM

CPT Daniel Walk, M.B.A. — Tue, 17 Jan 2017 21:27:38 -0500

I don't see any legal precedent being set. Pardons and commutations are the sole prevue of the President (and Governors). I don't believe they establish any binding precedent on the justice system, as a whole. So, no matter what a person is convicted of, no court is obligated to look at pardons and account for the President's actions in the way they must see and account for the actions of the Supreme Court. It's the final check / balance an executive has over the judiciary.

Response by SGT John Flint made Jan 17 at 2017 10:56 PM

SGT John Flint — Tue, 17 Jan 2017 22:56:05 -0500

The only precedence it set is if you leak classified information and are diagnosed with gender disorder your only hope for release is a liberal president
That ends Friday

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 17 at 2017 10:56 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 Jan 2017 22:56:21 -0500

I don't care what Manning wants to be called....He Enlisted and the committed crimes and was convicted as Bradley Manning He should rot in Leavenworth but since BHO's Administration let out even more classified intel on HRCs private servers and other miscues. We once again see how little BHO thinks of America and her National Intrests

Response by SSG Robert Webster made Jan 17 at 2017 11:48 PM

SSG Robert Webster — Tue, 17 Jan 2017 23:48:48 -0500

Bradley/Chelsea Manning's Charges:
By code violation
The charges were:

UCMJ 104 (Aiding the enemy): 1 count
UCMJ 92 (Failure to obey a lawful order or regulation): 9 counts. Mostly related to computers
Army Regulation 25-2, para. 4-5(a)(3): Modifying or installing unauthorized software to a system, using it for 'unintended' purposes
Army Regulation 25-2, para. 4-5(a)(4): Circumventing security mechanisms
Army Regulation 25-2, para. 4-6(k): Forbids transferring classified or sensitive information to non-secure systems
Army Regulation 380-5: Improper storage of classified information

UCMJ 134 (General article): 24 counts. These counts incorporate statutes from the United States Code: 18 U.S.C. § 641: Embezzlement and Theft of Public Money, Property or Records. The government said the records that Manning transferred were 'things of value'.
18 U.S.C. § 793(e): This is part of the Espionage Act. The law forbids 'unauthorized persons' from taking 'national defense' information and either 'retaining' it or delivering it to 'persons not entitled to receive it'.
18 U.S.C. § 1030(a) 1 and 2: These are from the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act of 1986. Section 1030(a)(1) is sometimes called the 'Computer Espionage' law as it borrows from the Espionage Act.

Total: 34

Someone else needs to find GEN James Cartwright's charge sheet. If you want to make that comparison.

Response by CPT Jim Schwebach made Jan 18 at 2017 12:39 AM

CPT Jim Schwebach — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 00:39:31 -0500

Technically, there is no precedent set by this action. The President has exercised a constitutional right unique to that office, he did not stretch the bounds of that right or use it in an unprecedented manner. No new law was established by this action. So no precedent.

Whether the action was appropriate is another question entirely.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 18 at 2017 3:12 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 03:12:29 -0500

None. Not the first criminal being granted his liberty in exchange for truth and the law. Who cares about national security, anyways?

Response by SPC Franklin McKown made Jan 18 at 2017 5:25 AM

SPC Franklin McKown — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 05:25:22 -0500

Beg your pardon sir,this ass hat was just taking a swipe at American values to snipe us.
WHY else free two traitors?
Its pathetic at best ,another entry in the Progressive wasteland

Response by SFC Daniel McIntire made Jan 18 at 2017 6:41 AM

SFC Daniel McIntire — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 06:41:52 -0500

This can have a residual side effect with homosexual of transsexual members of the service. The perception of treatment will get altered that can affect the unit level. Despite this thought, it is still wrong to give a "reduced ride" for a negative action.

Response by MSgt Wayne Morris made Jan 18 at 2017 7:21 AM

MSgt Wayne Morris — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 07:21:22 -0500

Just another kick in the crotch to law abiding Americans on the way out the door.
Since this was not a pardon, I would assume that the guys Dishonorable Discharge and loss of VA benefits still stands, hopefully.

Response by SGT David T. made Jan 18 at 2017 7:44 AM

SGT David T. — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 07:44:11 -0500

It doesn't set any. This doesn't affect me in the least. I will still go to work. Still pay my bills and life goes on. I have better things to do than worry about someone who doesn't affect my life in the slightest.

Response by Cpl Joshua Caldwell made Jan 18 at 2017 8:29 AM

Cpl Joshua Caldwell — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 08:29:24 -0500

This disgusts me, he/she is a traitor and should have a noose waiting for him. obama just seems to like traitors.

Response by SSgt Boyd Herrst made Jan 18 at 2017 9:11 AM

SSgt Boyd Herrst — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 09:11:17 -0500

He doesn't get out right away I don't think..
not until May, so can Incoming President
Trump Void this after he is sworn in?
I have read of commutations being reversed.

Response by PO2 Josiah Hair made Jan 18 at 2017 9:13 AM

PO2 Josiah Hair — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 09:13:22 -0500

I don't think it sets any precedent simply from the fact it was a one time shot, certainly the next president wouldn't! Besides the system that is suppose to vett somebody like this failed us let us concentrate on that fact!!

Response by FN Charlie Spivey made Jan 18 at 2017 9:24 AM

FN Charlie Spivey — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 09:24:50 -0500

Well, The way I see it, he was pardoned by a traitor, someone who has no allegiance to the country he was elected to lead. The flip side is that the Taxpayers will not get stiffed for a sex Change procedure that he / she / it is requesting. He also commuted Gen. Cartwright's sentence as well. He was the former Vice Chair of the Joint Chiefs and exposed the use of the Stuxnet Virus to disrupt the Iranian's Nuclear Operations.

Response by SrA Joel Lachapelle made Jan 18 at 2017 9:35 AM

SrA Joel Lachapelle — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 09:35:22 -0500

I was in the Airforce communications service. I had a Top Secret crypto clearance. He or she
Should be locked up for good. What a disgrace!

Response by SSG Wally Lawver made Jan 18 at 2017 9:36 AM

SSG Wally Lawver — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 09:36:48 -0500

Obama is an American hating POS. Traitors released early, horrible precedent to set, but no surprise from this particular POTUS..........As a retiree that is my opinion, he has divided our country worste than ever, and been no friend to the military with his liberal policies.

Response by SrA Joel Lachapelle made Jan 18 at 2017 9:37 AM

SrA Joel Lachapelle — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 09:37:22 -0500

I was in the Air force communications service with a top secret crypto clearance. He or she should be locked up for ever.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 18 at 2017 9:53 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 09:53:25 -0500

I don't think this sets much of a precedent. this President is known for commuting a lot of people and this is just another in Obama's commuting powers.

Response by MAJ Mark N. made Jan 18 at 2017 10:03 AM

MAJ Mark N. — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 10:03:59 -0500

Not surprised. Liberal cause celeb and middle finger from Obama to the military and national security on the way out. Too bad for Manning - he will likely not make it a year after release. Besides being a high profile convict, more than 40% of those with severe gender ID problems commit suicide. Manning has already tried. Outside of the prison walls, he will succeed.

Response by SFC John Bard c.f. made Jan 18 at 2017 10:32 AM

SFC John Bard c.f. — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 10:32:09 -0500

Being a retired INSCOMer, we were always told that if we leaked ANY sensitive information, we could look forward to a long stretch of breaking rocks at Ft. Leavenworth. In my opinion, it should have served every day of his/her sentence. The only good thing is that we won't have to pay for the rest of his/her treatments.

Response by SGT Woodrow Greenfeather made Jan 18 at 2017 10:34 AM

SGT Woodrow Greenfeather — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 10:34:44 -0500

I read through all of the comments on this thread and there were a few things that stuck out to me. First most were in agreement that he should have served fill sentence. Second, there were a few that just really are out of touch with reality. Statements such as it doesn't affect me. Hello, you are in the military, you don't think him leaking classified info about your units tactics doesn't affect you down range? You need to pull your head out of your 4th point of contact. And last. Officer vs. NCO, most of the officers were like yeah he did get a longer sentence. Oh, it's well within POTUS right. NCO's were like let him hang and POTUS hates the military.

Hate to tell ya, the NCO's are right. That's the difference seems most officers are liberal and follow around a unicorn sniffing it's magical rainbow farts. SMMFH

Response by CPT Daniel Walk, M.B.A. made Jan 18 at 2017 10:36 AM

CPT Daniel Walk, M.B.A. — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 10:36:28 -0500

The real precedent people should be concerned with is the desire to use gender dysmorphia as a way to get an early release from incarceration. We are going to have to deal with this on a larger scal after this action goes through.

Response by SFC John Bard c.f. made Jan 18 at 2017 10:43 AM

SFC John Bard c.f. — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 10:43:29 -0500

As a retired INSCOMer, we were always told that if we leaked ANY sensitive information, we could spend a lot of time breaking rocks at Ft. Leavenworth. In my opinion, he/she should spend every day of his/her sentence. The only good thing is that we won't have to pay for the rest of his/her treatments.

Response by SPC Jamie Smith made Jan 18 at 2017 11:02 AM

SPC Jamie Smith — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 11:02:16 -0500

In my opinion, Trump has already accomplished more than Obama-Bin-Lyin' has. If he does nothing else but turn the supreme Court conservative, with his appointments, he has fulfilled his mission.

Response by MAJ Charles Dean made Jan 18 at 2017 11:07 AM

MAJ Charles Dean — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 11:07:47 -0500

Pardoned or commuted sentences to me is the same. If it doesn't bother anyone then this is where I would have to ask what is wrong with you. He should have been left in prison to rot forever because now a precedence has been set that you can get away with treason. The fact that this is totally political and pardoned by someone who doesn't seem to have our best interest in mind as a nation, point proven over and over. Little piece of crap should have gotten old school punishment.

Response by MSgt Thelbert (Whitey) Roark made Jan 18 at 2017 11:23 AM

MSgt Thelbert (Whitey) Roark — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 11:23:22 -0500

Should have hung the bastard. 750K documents leaked.

Response by SGT Morris Williams made Jan 18 at 2017 11:42 AM

SGT Morris Williams — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 11:42:25 -0500

I do not think that anyone should commute a sentence that our justice system has given out as punishment for a crime. I believe that is under mining our justice system.

Response by CPO Bill Penrod made Jan 18 at 2017 11:55 AM

CPO Bill Penrod — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 11:55:54 -0500

You forgot pregnant women. It is a well deserved courtesy for all of them because they earned it......

Response by CPO Bernie Penkin made Jan 18 at 2017 11:56 AM

CPO Bernie Penkin — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 11:56:44 -0500

I am not surprised in the least by this. To be honest, my expectations of Obama were so low that this brazen act of disprespect was expected.

I remember when this case broke and Manning's record was mentioned in the news and on Rallypoint. There were so many red flags on this traitor that he never should have been allowed to enlist. Once he was on active duty, his record was examined again. Someone should have caught this travesty and not allowed him to be cleared for access to classified material. I believe that charges for negligence and failure to perform their duties should have been leveled against every person who signed off on his security clearance, because their combined failure do perform thier duty allowed this act of treason to take place.

Response by SFC Malcolm Haugen made Jan 18 at 2017 12:05 PM

SFC Malcolm Haugen — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 12:05:31 -0500

This is nothing more than permission to commit treason. This must be shut down. Our security is at stake but, more importantly is now lives are at stake. Instead of commuting the sentenced, maybe a execution was more in line. This shows how poorly our investigations are in investigating those that will have access to our most secret materials and information. I spend more time investigating my employees than the government spends on investigating those in positions that will handle our secrets. Poor, poor job.

Response by TSgt Fay Eichelberger made Jan 18 at 2017 12:22 PM

TSgt Fay Eichelberger — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 12:22:12 -0500

Unfortunately, I have to say that Chelsea's commuted sentence is rather appropriate considering the Secretary of State had been doing it for years, illegally - maybe unknowingly, but still illegally.

Response by MSgt Craig Kuiper made Jan 18 at 2017 12:28 PM

MSgt Craig Kuiper — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 12:28:13 -0500

It doesn't surprise me much since this administration has been soft on the personnel not protecting classified. All personnel with act has signed a NDA and know the consequences of unauthorized release. One such person was allowed to run for Commander in Chief. Another got a slap on the wrist for letting his secretary access when she had no need to know. I'm glad that they are out and hopefully the next administration won't be so soft on individuals who release classified with out authorization.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 18 at 2017 12:54 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 12:54:05 -0500

she will still get convicted felon she will still commit suicide because she won't be happy with her operation Ashley druggie an alcoholic anyway

Response by CPL David Stout Jr made Jan 18 at 2017 12:54 PM

CPL David Stout Jr — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 12:54:18 -0500

It is an outrage! His information leak resulted in the death of others. He should have received the death sentence.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 18 at 2017 12:56 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 12:56:02 -0500

, should have passed basic training as a guy. Whatever Justice she brought out and WikiLeaks she still wasn't fit to be a soldier even if everything was perfect

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 18 at 2017 2:17 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 14:17:02 -0500

How about those innocent soldiers at Leavenworth?

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 18 at 2017 2:37 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 14:37:51 -0500

While I think that the communation was appropriate as her sentence was way out of line with any leaker punishments before and after, I do think that the wearing of the beret that fucked up ahould get soldiers 7 years in Leavenworth on its own. ;)

Response by MAJ George Huley made Jan 18 at 2017 3:34 PM

MAJ George Huley — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 15:34:43 -0500

While the President has the authority to commute sentences, I believe he over stepped in this instance. I wonder how much he was actually briefed on what was released bu manning?

Response by TSgt Kenneth Ellis made Jan 18 at 2017 3:56 PM

TSgt Kenneth Ellis — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 15:56:22 -0500

I listens to him brag about it at his last press conference.

Response by SGT Walter Lester made Jan 18 at 2017 4:23 PM

SGT Walter Lester — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 16:23:13 -0500

I think this is bad business for our country. If they did the crime they need to to the time in full for it. That's what is wrong with the justice system now. It lets too many people back on the streets and they don't learn from their mistakes because they feel that they can get by doing the same or similar crime and get by with it. This also looks bad on the military justice system.

Response by SGT Tony Clifford made Jan 18 at 2017 5:59 PM

SGT Tony Clifford — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 17:59:57 -0500

At least it was a commutation and not a pardon.

Response by MSG Frederick Otero made Jan 18 at 2017 6:24 PM

MSG Frederick Otero — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 18:24:14 -0500

BAD BAD & BAD. Nuff said!

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 18 at 2017 6:42 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 18:42:20 -0500

let this pos go away, its done and over with time served, if he wants a sex change it can happen on his dime not mine

Response by MSG Tim Gray made Jan 18 at 2017 8:09 PM

MSG Tim Gray — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 20:09:24 -0500

Putin will be pardoned

Response by SFC Ernest Thurston made Jan 18 at 2017 8:51 PM

SFC Ernest Thurston — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 20:51:12 -0500

A bad one. Now anyone who claims to be "special" can say "well the POTUS commuted that sentence why not mine". HE made an adult choice to betray his country and should pay an adult price. There are thousands of transsexuals, gays, bi etc. in our prisons. Should they all be released because they are housed with men? He complains that he was kept in solitary confinement. Well if he didn't claim to be a girl then he wouldn't need to be put in "protective administrative segregation". If he was in a state institution he would just have to wear his underwear backward and be Bubba's girl. He's lucky he is in Leavenworth.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Jan 18 at 2017 11:06 PM

COL Charles Williams — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 23:06:29 -0500

None really... Presidents do this. I think this was a really bad call, but that all depends on your perspective. Traitors are shunned here and in the military (or shot), but in society at large, I don't think they can understand what these crimes really mean.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 19 at 2017 12:02 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 19 Jan 2017 00:02:17 -0500

Their is no precedent to set, the precedent was already set when Hillary got released.

Response by SSG Dr. John Bell, PhD. made Jan 19 at 2017 1:50 AM

SSG Dr. John Bell, PhD. — Thu, 19 Jan 2017 01:50:24 -0500

I am not worried. Hillary Clinton did the same thing and got away with it. According to Court Martial records, the US could not show where any damage had been done. Other than exposing some Diplomat and staff miss deeds. He/she already has served 6 years.

Response by Capt Michael Greene made Jan 19 at 2017 2:26 AM

Capt Michael Greene — Thu, 19 Jan 2017 02:26:04 -0500

No precedent at all. The president's decision on these matters is not subject to review, nor are future presidents required to follow previous president's examples.

As a practical matter, Manning has already served the usual sentence for his crime, and spent the whole time--jail and prison--basically being tortured. 35 years of solitary confinement? Clearly unconstitutional.

Be sure to note: I don't care one whit about Manning personally. I simply insist that my country follow Constitutional principles. Keeping a human being naked in a concrete cell is a sicko's version of justice.

Response by Sgt Jamie Grippin made Jan 19 at 2017 5:04 AM

Sgt Jamie Grippin — Thu, 19 Jan 2017 05:04:45 -0500

I originally went old school when the news of the leak first broke. Just shoot him for treason. But as usual as the general public we will probably never know exactly what he released or weather the information actually did hurt or endangered anyone. But what he/she did do was place the NSA and friend's under the watchful eye of the press, with regard's to their ongoing surveillance of the American people. I don't really like the press but they do serve a purpose. Saying that he/she should have gone through proper channels would have ranked up there with asking congress to police their own ethical actions. But put it in the press for the public to see and react to and now you some actionable decision making going on and that is a good thing. Given the climate after 9-11 no one was going to tell the NSA no and without a public response congress isn't going to act on anything that doesn't impact their own reelection. Hopefully the damage was minimal which is something I would like to believe that the President took under consideration. The sentence was commuted not pardoned so he/she will remain a felon but with time served. I think I am Ok with this now. Hopefully the intelligent community is also a little more careful with who they allow to have access to their information now.

Response by GySgt Charles O'Connell made Jan 19 at 2017 5:24 AM

GySgt Charles O'Connell — Thu, 19 Jan 2017 05:24:52 -0500

Manning is a confused young man, his actions were those of a confused young man, not someone acting out of a sense of higher moral calling, making the hard decision for the good of all, but a confused young man, easily manipulated into betraying his responsibilities. actions that cannot be pardoned. If the Pres wants to "commute" his sentence, wiping away the remaining punishment, but not forgiving the crime, then that is his prerogative. But no pardon.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 19 at 2017 7:15 AM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 19 Jan 2017 07:15:56 -0500

It doesn't set a precedent but it is a reprehensible act. Freeing a traitor is beyond words. Obama has sealed his reputation as a liberal who has tried to fundamentally change America. Don't forget, lost in the hoopla is the fact that he also pardoned a Puerto Rican terrorist who bombed cities in this country. Unbelievable.

Response by TSgt Thomas Monaghan made Jan 19 at 2017 7:54 AM

TSgt Thomas Monaghan — Thu, 19 Jan 2017 07:54:00 -0500

If Chelsea Manning were still Bradley Manning he most likely would still be in jail.

Response by MSgt James Mullis made Jan 19 at 2017 11:31 AM

MSgt James Mullis — Thu, 19 Jan 2017 11:31:01 -0500

None! Presidents have the right to pardon anyone they want for anything they want. If a precedent is being set it involves the ever increasing numbers of pardons and commutations.

In the history of the United States we've had political pardons, blanket pardons, pardons for money, pardons of entire classes of people, and pardons of everyone convicted of violating a particular statute, we've even had pardons signed by auto-pen and not the President. The only limit on the presidents pardon power is the pardon has to be signed during the Presidents term of office. So President Obama's pardons all have to be signed before noon on 20 January 2017.

Response by SPC David Whitney made Jan 19 at 2017 12:09 PM

SPC David Whitney — Thu, 19 Jan 2017 12:09:24 -0500

I notice the Officer Corps in general seems to think Obama was not out of line in what he did for Manning. But, after serving my time as a lowly enlisted men, I sense some hypocrisy in the Officer Corps' attitude after having listened to many officers under whom I served preach to me the total disaster awaiting my life and career in Leavenworth should I even consider crossing the lines like Manning did.

Response by PVT William Aponte made Jan 19 at 2017 2:27 PM

PVT William Aponte — Thu, 19 Jan 2017 14:27:40 -0500

MY NAME WILLIAM APONTE 087524265,, I LIVED IN BROOKLYN NY FOR MORE THEN 27 YEARS I WAS WONDERING WHY NOT JOIN THE ARMY AND I DID.. CAME HERE COLD WAR TIME ,, MET A BEAUTIFUL GERMAN GIRL, STOOD HERE EVER SINCE .. MY PARENTS ARE PROUD OF ME FOR GOING TO ANOTHER LAND AND RESPECTING THEM AS THEY RESPECT ME , I AM THE CEO OF APONTE PROJECT RECORDING STUDIO Int GERMANY AND CEO OF APONTE RECORDS HERE ... AS I LEFT HOME .. MOTHER ON PHONE ONE DAY WAS CRYING I THOUGH IT WAS BECAUSE OF ME CALLING NO IT WAS ONE OF MY OLDER BROTHERS KILL SOMEONE THEY SAID HE WAS FULL OF DRUGS HE KILL A 12 YR OLD GIRL ... IN A HOUSE ROBBERY WITH HIS NEPHEW ,,,
IT HAPPEN IN 1991 . AS ALL THE WAIT FOR TO GET THE INJECTION OR LIFE MY MOTHER GOT SICKER SHE DIE 2001 BEFORE THE 9/11 SHE WAS ALWAYS PROUD OF US AND OF AMERICA THAT SHE PREUTO RICAN .. AS MY FATHER ,SHE WORK BROOKLYN COLLEGE AS HIM CLEANING SHE WORK 10 YEARS WAS TOLD SHE HAD CANCER THEY HAD TO LET HER GO ... MY FATHER WORK THERE ALMOST 31 YEARS THEN HE GOT SICK AND ONE OF MY YOUNGER BROTHERS CAME FROM TEXAS TO NYC TO GET HIM AND TAKE CARE OF HIM ,,THEY WORK FOR US HARD .. I HAVE NEVER DID ANYTHING BAD AGAINST ANY LAW HERE OR THERE ,, THAT MY BROTHER WAS SENTENCE TO LIFE WITH HIS NEPHEW .. BUT I READ IN THE REPORTS SO ON THE CASE THE MOTHER OF THE GIRL WENT TO CONGRESS TO STOP THERE PAROLES THE FIRST TIME NO GO .. 2 TIME NO GO 3 TIME NO GO HE SPEND ALMOST 30 YEARS FOR WHAT HE DID , HE LEFT 7 CHILDERN BEHIND I WENT TO VISIT HIM ON HIS 58 BIRTHDAY AFTER 18 YEARS NOT SEE HIM THOUGH IT WOULD KEEP HIS LOVE AND UNDERSTANDING THAT I LOVE HIM STILL IT WAS THE DRUGS I KNEW MY BROTHER FOR 27 YEARS HE WAS A SMILING MADE YOUR DAY WHEN YOU SURE HIM I DONT NEED TO MAKE UP THINGS ,,, AM NOW 61 YEARS OLD .. PART OF VET HERE WE HAVE OUR LOVE FOR ONE ANOTHER HERE .. I SURE A NEWS REPORT OF MY BROTHER AND MY NEPHEW ,, COUPLES YEARS AGO HOW THEY SAID 3 TIME CONGRESS CANT STOP THE PAROLE HES STILL THERE WITH SICKNESS AND OLD 7 KIDS HOW CAN YOU REALLY KILL A KID OUT OF NOTHING AND THEY LET A RAT TRADER GO IN WAR TIME OR SO IN VIDEOS AND NO DAME MEDIA SHOULD BE IN THE OF WAR OK ,, AM JUST GIVE MY FEELINGS THAT I MAY NEVER SEE HIM AGAIN AND THAT THE MOST HURTING THING IS MY FATHER DIE ON 5 OF JAN HE DID EVEN SEE HIS MOTHER OR FATHER FOR THEY LEFT THE WORLD IS A CRIME

YOURS TRULY AND AMERICAN WITH NO HOPE OR CAUSE TO COME HOME IS WHAT IT IS

360 SMALL IT ALL STARTED ROTHCHILD

Response by MAJ Bill Darling made Jan 19 at 2017 6:29 PM

MAJ Bill Darling — Thu, 19 Jan 2017 18:29:06 -0500

It sets a bad precedent, even if not legally, and creates a "warming effect" for others who wish to make their own foreign policy as he and Snowden have. I have yet to hear the president give a *good* reason for this, especially given how tough his own administration was on leaks.

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 19 at 2017 6:49 PM

Maj Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 19 Jan 2017 18:49:39 -0500

It absolutely sets a horrible precedent and is inexcusable

Response by MAJ Ronnie Reams made Jan 20 at 2017 7:39 AM

MAJ Ronnie Reams — Fri, 20 Jan 2017 07:39:25 -0500

The whole thing shows the military was correct for years, when it refused to have sexual deviants in its ranks. They are real security risks! Barry made the mess, so he cleaned it up.

Response by TSgt Kenneth Ellis made Jan 20 at 2017 10:08 PM

TSgt Kenneth Ellis — Fri, 20 Jan 2017 22:08:26 -0500

At least we don't have to pay to make him look like a woman. But I know two Marines that woul castrate him for free.

Response by SFC Bobby Thompson made Jan 20 at 2017 10:31 PM

SFC Bobby Thompson — Fri, 20 Jan 2017 22:31:16 -0500

I think that Chelsea Manning would not have been commuted if he tried to stay as a guy. Now all the LGBT community can celebrate, they now have a new hero that can parade. The does set a bad precedence, now guys will just ask for a gender change when they go to jail and seek a pardon for their crimes. But hopefully we don't get another weak president that has no respect for the military and military laws again. We keep getting these candy-ass liberal presidents and the country goes sideways in some areas.

Response by SFC Bobby Thompson made Jan 20 at 2017 10:37 PM

SFC Bobby Thompson — Fri, 20 Jan 2017 22:37:55 -0500

I think this whole mess sets a precedent for me to never vote for a candidate that does not understand and support our military. A brand new private is more patriodic then Mr. Obama was.

Response by LCpl Michael Parker made Jan 22 at 2017 3:49 AM

LCpl Michael Parker — Sun, 22 Jan 2017 03:49:09 -0500

plain and simple he is a traitor! Plain & Simple he should receive the fullest punishment under the law
with no pardon(s) this is the example that should be set.
People have for too long done as they please without serious reprisals it must stop!

Response by CWO4 David Smith made Jan 24 at 2017 11:54 AM

CWO4 David Smith — Tue, 24 Jan 2017 11:54:18 -0500

Limits the ability to SUCCESSFULLY PROSECUTE hit-LIAR-y.....

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 25 at 2017 2:03 AM

CPO Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 Jan 2017 02:03:04 -0500

If your a traitor ask for a sex change and you'll likely get a commuted sentence.

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 25 at 2017 2:06 AM

CPO Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 Jan 2017 02:06:21 -0500

There are people who are serving life in prison for stealing classified documents and leaking them. With intent to cause harm to the US Government. If you can't find them you haven't really looked. Or you have. Ever had a security clearance and never had to sit through hours of mandatory training on traitors and punishment for leaking with/without intent because intent isn't a part of the law. It's an aggravating circumstance.

Response by SSgt Michael Cox made Jan 25 at 2017 11:06 AM

SSgt Michael Cox — Wed, 25 Jan 2017 11:06:08 -0500

For the damage he did and everything they had to do to make sure everyone was pulled out whose names were in his documents I think the full time he owes is still due. Hell there is a sailor doing 4-6 years in Leavenworth for taking a photo of his work space to send to his mom. Just like Bradley he knew he shouldn't do it, in this case the sailor worked on a sub but thought it would be cool for his mom to have the pic. Both him and his mom agree it was wrong and agreed he should spend time for it when caught. If you commute one case like this you need to review all cases and release prisoners who did much less as well as imprison Clinton who should be doing 30 years also.

Response by SMSgt Sheila Berg made Jan 25 at 2017 8:46 PM

SMSgt Sheila Berg — Wed, 25 Jan 2017 20:46:08 -0500

No President Obama is gone!

Response by SFC Byron Perry made Jan 26 at 2017 2:57 PM

SFC Byron Perry — Thu, 26 Jan 2017 14:57:41 -0500

To me it sets the precedent, that if you get a sex change on the government's dime all will be good and even being a traitor will be wiped away. He just did it to appease the gay/lesbian crowd to support the democrats for years to come.

Response by SPC Byron Skinner made Jan 30 at 2017 9:35 PM

SPC Byron Skinner — Mon, 30 Jan 2017 21:35:47 -0500

Sp4 Byron Skinner. I think LTC Kevin B. said all that need to be said about this.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 2 at 2017 11:50 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 02 Feb 2017 11:50:36 -0500

Good thing is that they are not going to pay for HIS surgery now. He is discharged and will have to come out of pocket for that and the other things we have been paying for. I am not happy with it but trying to see a positive.

Response by SMSgt Ed Turney made Feb 8 at 2017 10:25 AM

SMSgt Ed Turney — Wed, 08 Feb 2017 10:25:48 -0500

Manning should have been shot as a spie and we would not be having this conversation.

Response by PVT Mark Brown made Feb 14 at 2017 4:24 PM

PVT Mark Brown — Tue, 14 Feb 2017 16:24:56 -0500

Obama has done, in my opinion, a large number of harmful things during his 8 years as Pres/CinC. But I think the Bradley (I refuse to call HIM Chelsea) Manning's commutation was the most assine stunt he pulled while in office. The Manning POS is deserving of life w/out at the very least. The UCMJ allows for the death penalty for desertion in the face of hostile enemy forces during a time of war, declared or not. Manning voluntarily deserted his post and surrendered himself to enemy forces while not under duress - of his own free will. He should have been left over there but since he was stupidly exchanged for and return to USA he should have been assigned his own little space at Ft. Leavenworth (United States Disciplinary Barracks) If you read http://www.ucmj.us/sub-chapter-10-punitive-articles/885-article-85-desertion you will find a description of the offense along with the prescribed penalty. As CinC Obama has a federal obligation to uphold the UCMJ regardless of the surrounding facts of the case, If a General Courts Martial has found an individual guilt of a violation UCMJ Sect 85.10 (a) et seq. Read it for your own satisfaction that Obama is guilt of a federal offense equal to 885 UCMJ and should be prosecuted and imprisoned for rest of his natural life without the possibility of probation.
It is such and egregious act that there is possible precedent.

885. ARTICLE 85. DESERTION « UCMJ – United States Code of Military Justice

(1) without authority goes or remains absent from his unit, organization, or place of duty with intent to remain away therefrom permanently;