Should President Obama pardon SGT Bowe Bergdahl?

SGM Matthew Quick — Sat, 03 Dec 2016 17:28:43 -0500

U.S. Army Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl, the former prisoner of war who's accused of endangering comrades by walking off his post in Afghanistan, is asking President Barack Obama to pardon him before leaving office.

Response by SPC Kevin Ford made Dec 3 at 2016 5:30 PM

SPC Kevin Ford — Sat, 03 Dec 2016 17:30:50 -0500

Sorry, no.

Response by TSgt David L. made Dec 3 at 2016 5:31 PM

TSgt David L. — Sat, 03 Dec 2016 17:31:32 -0500

I say No. He and Hillary can share a cell.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 3 at 2016 5:31 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 03 Dec 2016 17:31:41 -0500

If he gets pardoned, it'll be the most inexcusable thing President Obama or Trump for that matter, in Presidential history

Response by SFC Pete Kain made Dec 3 at 2016 5:36 PM

SFC Pete Kain — Sat, 03 Dec 2016 17:36:14 -0500

S.O.B should of been shot as a deserter.

Response by LTC Stephen C. made Dec 3 at 2016 5:40 PM

LTC Stephen C. — Sat, 03 Dec 2016 17:40:30 -0500

He is not deserving of a pardon, SGM Matthew Quick. That being said, I would not be surprised in the least if he were pardoned, but it could only occur before January 20, 2017.

Response by MCPO Roger Collins made Dec 3 at 2016 5:45 PM

MCPO Roger Collins — Sat, 03 Dec 2016 17:45:58 -0500

No!

Response by SSgt Terry P. made Dec 3 at 2016 5:50 PM

SSgt Terry P. — Sat, 03 Dec 2016 17:50:44 -0500

SGM Matthew Quick I am still trying to understand why he was promoted to Sgt. if he was a Pvt. when he deserted his post.No, he should not be pardoned.

Response by PO3 Leroy Leftwich made Dec 3 at 2016 5:50 PM

PO3 Leroy Leftwich — Sat, 03 Dec 2016 17:50:51 -0500

I understand who the Commander in Chief is, the President. I feel the rules and guidelines for the Military have been stretched enough. The President doesn't need to be dealing with the internal issues. That's why the chain of command works.

Response by PO3 David Fries made Dec 3 at 2016 5:57 PM

PO3 David Fries — Sat, 03 Dec 2016 17:57:37 -0500

Just no.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 3 at 2016 5:57 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 03 Dec 2016 17:57:52 -0500

Hell NO! It would be a slap in the face to all who have served unselfishly especially to those who gave all!

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 3 at 2016 5:59 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 03 Dec 2016 17:59:27 -0500

Absolutely not!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 3 at 2016 7:33 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 03 Dec 2016 19:33:30 -0500

Well, he can't be pardoned unless he is convicted I don't think. On top of that I honestly think the defense has a good loophole to get the desertion charges dropped because they are saying that Bergdahl didn't desert. A large part of their defense is built around their claim that Bergdahl only went AWOL temporarily, and the reason that he was unable to return was because he was detained. They are also pursuing a technicality that Bergdahl's status was known to his unit relatively shortly after he abandoned his post, something about the number of hours he was missing can't be considered desertion I believe. The prosecution will have to prove that Bergdahl had no intent to return.

Even if he is convicted, there is a good chance that any sentence will be commuted and that he would not be given a bad conduct or other than honorable discharge because that would prevent him from VA healthcare, which is a sticky situation because he was detained by a hostile force in a time of war and POWs and detainees get special treatment by law.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 3 at 2016 7:43 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 03 Dec 2016 19:43:22 -0500

Negative on that Sergeant Major.

That being said Bergdahl has not been convicted as of yet and is still participating in Court-Martial so it may be some time before we get out final answer on him.

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Dec 3 at 2016 8:23 PM

SGM Mikel Dawson — Sat, 03 Dec 2016 20:23:32 -0500

H.F.N. It will not surprise me if Obummer does pardon him as he is his "poster" child. Expect it, but totally crap. We need to let the UCMJ work through this one. They are afraid he will loose, so this is a last ditch.

Response by SP5 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 3 at 2016 8:30 PM

SP5 Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 03 Dec 2016 20:30:21 -0500

SGM Matthew Quick The court martial needs to be completed. When/if a guilty verdict is brought, then the question of pardon can be raised. Until that time, if a pardon is issued, the whole concept of the UCMJ is imperiled.

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made Dec 3 at 2016 9:34 PM

CAPT Kevin B. — Sat, 03 Dec 2016 21:34:04 -0500

He shouldn't but might in the current term. All the crapola the administration did would come under official spotlight. I think a pardon would be done to throw dirt on the grave vs. being in the interest of justice.

Response by PO2 Marty Sharpe made Dec 3 at 2016 9:50 PM

PO2 Marty Sharpe — Sat, 03 Dec 2016 21:50:11 -0500

Nope. Firing squad maybe.

Response by Col Joseph Lenertz made Dec 3 at 2016 9:54 PM

Col Joseph Lenertz — Sat, 03 Dec 2016 21:54:02 -0500

It's insulting that he asked.

Response by MSgt George Cater made Dec 3 at 2016 10:24 PM

MSgt George Cater — Sat, 03 Dec 2016 22:24:41 -0500

No. But he probably will just as a parting middle finger to the armed forces he has done so little for and so much to. Wait and see.....

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 3 at 2016 10:39 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 03 Dec 2016 22:39:34 -0500

No Bergdahl should be punished as the court marshal may direct.

Response by SFC George Smith made Dec 3 at 2016 11:18 PM

SFC George Smith — Sat, 03 Dec 2016 23:18:51 -0500

The Gallows or Double Tap

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 4 at 2016 12:48 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 04 Dec 2016 00:48:11 -0500

Without regard to this specific case, I think it sets a dangerous precedence for the President to step in on UCMJ. It's a bad thing for the President to get personally involved in anything that should be handled by the military, whether it's UCMJ, uniform decisions or any other petition concerning military that gets submitted to the White House.

Response by PO2 Robert Aitchison made Dec 4 at 2016 1:04 AM

PO2 Robert Aitchison — Sun, 04 Dec 2016 01:04:45 -0500

No way, I think it extremely unlikely that he would issue such a pardon.

Response by SMSgt Terry Rider made Dec 4 at 2016 1:28 AM

SMSgt Terry Rider — Sun, 04 Dec 2016 01:28:54 -0500

Not only no, but hell no!

Response by MSG Jay Jackson made Dec 4 at 2016 1:44 AM

MSG Jay Jackson — Sun, 04 Dec 2016 01:44:39 -0500

Yes give him a pardon! Pardon me SGT, it's this way to your cell!!!

Response by SSgt Jim Gilmore made Dec 4 at 2016 2:04 AM

SSgt Jim Gilmore — Sun, 04 Dec 2016 02:04:16 -0500

I bet dollars to donuts he does.

Response by Sgt Joseph Baker made Dec 4 at 2016 3:07 AM

Sgt Joseph Baker — Sun, 04 Dec 2016 03:07:13 -0500

Sadly, it wouldn't surprise me. But how can you pardon someone never convicted of a crime? Never understood that one. At least let 12 real soldiers judge him first so this turd can have that stain that can never be washed away by a pardon. Pardon or not you appear to be a traitorous, dishonest, untrustworthy, cowardly, help me out here guys I am running out of monikers for this guy...

Response by SSG Steven Mangus made Dec 4 at 2016 3:19 AM

SSG Steven Mangus — Sun, 04 Dec 2016 03:19:41 -0500

Absolutely not..his citizenship should be stripped away and he be dropped off in the hole where they found him..

Response by PO1 John Meyer, CPC made Dec 4 at 2016 2:44 PM

PO1 John Meyer, CPC — Sun, 04 Dec 2016 14:44:01 -0500

Not only no, but he needs to stand trail to the final decision. He went AWOL of his own free will and now needs to stand trail for it.

Response by MSgt Richard Randall made Dec 4 at 2016 5:31 PM

MSgt Richard Randall — Sun, 04 Dec 2016 17:31:55 -0500

Everyone is presumed innocent until proven guilty. Let him have his day in court and let the UCMJ and constitution work for a change. To issue a pardon would not only usurp military discipline it would set a dangerous precedent.

On the other hand, If Bergdahl IS found guilty my suggestion would be to lock him in the same cell with Bradley Manning. They could check one another for testicular cancer every day. Nadal Hasan would be forced to watch from an adjoining cell.

Response by SFC Daniel McIntire made Dec 4 at 2016 11:44 PM

SFC Daniel McIntire — Sun, 04 Dec 2016 23:44:30 -0500

Hell No SGM! This would be an insult to those who conducted their duty. What are the two percenters thinking?

Response by Cpl Justin Goolsby made Dec 5 at 2016 8:39 AM

Cpl Justin Goolsby — Mon, 05 Dec 2016 08:39:13 -0500

A pardon implies guilt, so unless he's guilty of something he doesn't need a pardon. Personally, I think he should take his punishment like a man. Own up to it. People died and we traded 5 captives for you. That essentially put a price on Americans backs that a single of us is worth 5 enemy captives.

Response by SGT Dave Tracy made Dec 5 at 2016 11:53 AM

SGT Dave Tracy — Mon, 05 Dec 2016 11:53:41 -0500

Well, as I can't click on "No" any more than I already did...

Response by SFC Joseph Murphy made Dec 5 at 2016 12:10 PM

SFC Joseph Murphy — Mon, 05 Dec 2016 12:10:35 -0500

Absolutely not. But with that said, President Obama has showen his loyalties lie with Muslims more than the American Soldier. With respects to those who were KIA and wounded while serching for Sgt Bergdahl. I could see President Obama issuing a pardon for compassionate reasons. Still wrong, people were killed looking for him. That should have consequences, sense he just walked off.

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Dec 5 at 2016 1:34 PM

SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth — Mon, 05 Dec 2016 13:34:11 -0500

When pigs fly and everyone in the US is a millionaire.

Response by 1stSgt Matthew Olivolo made Dec 5 at 2016 7:06 PM

1stSgt Matthew Olivolo — Mon, 05 Dec 2016 19:06:43 -0500

Not only no, but Hell No!

Response by MSgt Wayne Morris made Dec 5 at 2016 8:55 PM

MSgt Wayne Morris — Mon, 05 Dec 2016 20:55:31 -0500

The military judicial system should be allowed to work without interference from POTUS and the chips fall where they may.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 5 at 2016 9:45 PM

CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 05 Dec 2016 21:45:20 -0500

No. The line started forming many months ago. DOJ has a listing of commuted and pardoned sentences. I looked at some and they were mostly for drugs. I was amazed at the large amounts of crack or cocaine that were given the nod. I noticed ACLU is also seeking pardon for Pvt. Bradley Manning a.k.a. Chelsea. Surprised we haven't heard Snowden's name yet but maybe we will. I'm for some leniency with limits but never with anything involving National Security or what Bergdahl did. They had firing squads in years past, such as Pvt. Slovik. Although over 21,000 American soldiers were given varying sentences for desertion during World War II, including 49 death sentences, Slovik's death sentence was the only one that was carried out. He was the first and only one since the Civil War.

Response by COL David Turk made Dec 5 at 2016 10:56 PM

COL David Turk — Mon, 05 Dec 2016 22:56:06 -0500

Under what premise would a pardon be granted? Did Bergdahl lose his stress card?

Response by SFC Bobby Thompson made Dec 6 at 2016 12:01 AM

SFC Bobby Thompson — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 00:01:04 -0500

I think the president should pardon Bergdahl, Snowden, and Manning. He should give them all a mulligan. They should only be jailed after they do the same thing again after he pardons them.

Response by Capt Tom Brown made Dec 6 at 2016 5:39 AM

Capt Tom Brown — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 05:39:09 -0500

It is not beyond the realm of possibility that our honored POTUS would/could pardon him prior to Jan 20th. After all, Sgt Bergdahl is a national hero, so proclaimed by POTUS on national TV, at a ceremony in the Rose Garden at the White House. As a national hero it would seem very inconsistent for him to at the same time be a deserter, so it would follow that POTUS would issue a pardon to relieve him of such a life-long stigma.

Response by SGT Jason Hartnett made Dec 6 at 2016 6:08 AM

SGT Jason Hartnett — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 06:08:15 -0500

SGM Matthew

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 6 at 2016 6:21 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 06:21:58 -0500

From what I come to understand, 6 Soldiers were killed looking for that kid. I had to take that into account when I answered your survey.

Response by SGT Jason Hartnett made Dec 6 at 2016 6:23 AM

SGT Jason Hartnett — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 06:23:00 -0500

SGM Matthew Quick, being an old war dog like youself you should know this by now.
885. ARTICLE 85. DESERTION
10. Punitive Articles
(a) Any member of the armed forces who–
(1) without authority goes or remains absent from his unit, organization, or place of duty with intent to remain away therefrom permanently;
(2) quits his unit, organization, or place of duty with intent to avoid hazardous duty or to shirk important service; or
(3) without being regularly separated from one of the armed forces enlists or accepts an appointment in the same or another one of the armed forces without fully disclosing the fact that he has not been regularly separated, or enters any foreign armed service except when authorized by the United States; is guilty of desertion.
(b) Any commissioned officer of the armed forces who, after tender of his resignation and before notice of its acceptance, quits his post or proper duties without leave and with intent to remain away therefrom permanently is guilty of desertion.
(c) Any person found guilty of desertion or attempt to desert shall be punished, if the offense is committed in time of war, by death or such other punishment as a court-martial may direct, but if the desertion or attempt to desert occurs at any other time, by such punishment, other than death, as a court-martial may direct.
So under this Articles of the UCMJ/ I would have to say no. This is what I found and being a 31B for sometime I hope you are with me in my findings.

Response by SSG Robert Spina made Dec 6 at 2016 6:28 AM

SSG Robert Spina — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 06:28:56 -0500

HELL NO

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 6 at 2016 6:44 AM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 06:44:28 -0500

Do ppl in hell have ice water ??? Fuck no

Response by Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen made Dec 6 at 2016 6:49 AM

Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 06:49:51 -0500

Not based on anything I've seen or heard.

Response by LCpl Tom Katchisin made Dec 6 at 2016 6:58 AM

LCpl Tom Katchisin — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 06:58:03 -0500

Soldiers died while searching for this Deserter. He abandoned his post and deserves no pardon.

Response by LTC Marc King made Dec 6 at 2016 7:03 AM

LTC Marc King — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 07:03:29 -0500

Let the UCMJ process work. It is a far better legal process than civil law. I have full faith and confidence in a just lawful findin and follow on consequence. I for one will accept the findings and decision of a CM.

Response by COL Mike LaFuze made Dec 6 at 2016 7:21 AM

COL Mike LaFuze — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 07:21:04 -0500

This would be a kick in the stomach of all military and vets. The ultimate betrayal by a president.

Response by Cpl Michelle Loeffler made Dec 6 at 2016 7:24 AM

Cpl Michelle Loeffler — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 07:24:29 -0500

I say FIRING SQUAD!!!!

Response by SSgt Kent Vickery made Dec 6 at 2016 7:37 AM

SSgt Kent Vickery — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 07:37:49 -0500

Absolutely not

Response by SSgt Kent Vickery made Dec 6 at 2016 7:38 AM

SSgt Kent Vickery — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 07:38:00 -0500

Absolutely not

Response by LTC Joe Likar made Dec 6 at 2016 7:38 AM

LTC Joe Likar — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 07:38:09 -0500

Having his way, the POTUS will pardon him. He gave five of his Muslim "Brothers" for his return. and has no reason to do what the American people want him to do.

Response by FN Charlie Spivey made Dec 6 at 2016 7:44 AM

FN Charlie Spivey — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 07:44:30 -0500

He was promoted while being AWOL ( I don't know if he had the Desertion status at that time or not ). I believe he intitially enlisted in the Coast Guard and was released 30 days into basic, for Psychological issues.

Response by 1st Lt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 6 at 2016 7:55 AM

1st Lt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 07:55:10 -0500

I agree with many here, it's insulting for him to have even asked. But then again, what can you really expected from someone who abandon's his brothers-in-arms.

Response by SMSgt Gary Yonchak made Dec 6 at 2016 7:59 AM

SMSgt Gary Yonchak — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 07:59:47 -0500

Absolutely no pardon, period. Sgt Bergdahl was completely wrong in his actions, his dereliction to duty, and the hazards to which he subjected his fellow soldiers. If conditions were so bad, there were other means by which he could address them, to include waiting until he got home or was back at main base. 25 to life would be appropriate in the Leavenworth Facility. President Obama further exasperated the situation by "negotiating" with the terrorist that were holding Bergdahl, thus embarrassing the US, its Armed Forces, and the policies and processes of a combat zone. Bad news all the way around !

Response by SFC Joey Parton made Dec 6 at 2016 8:17 AM

SFC Joey Parton — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 08:17:41 -0500

Very much NO, but in saying that, you have to be convicted of the offense first before you can be pardoned.

Response by MSG Roboam Felix made Dec 6 at 2016 8:25 AM

MSG Roboam Felix — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 08:25:34 -0500

The answer is a definite NO. My question to this: why is he "still" called a sergeant? He should have been demoted to E-1 long time ago. This man committed an act of treason when he deserted in time of war. What is the law about that? Why have the commanding generals overseeing this situation allowed such an extended amount of time to take action. Bottom line, this has gone on for too long without reason. Trial by UCMJ and the POTUS to know his role and stay out of it.

MSG(Ret) R. Felix

Response by CPL Bolivar Ruiz made Dec 6 at 2016 8:28 AM

CPL Bolivar Ruiz — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 08:28:50 -0500

An NCO Must lead soldiers in Combat

Response by PO2 John Mylett made Dec 6 at 2016 8:45 AM

PO2 John Mylett — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 08:45:27 -0500

No Potus Pardon let the judicial process proceed. Bergdahl was booted from USCG during basic training due to Mental Health issues; US Army should never have accepted him into service. This will likely become his defense.

Response by SPC John Jones made Dec 6 at 2016 9:02 AM

SPC John Jones — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 09:02:59 -0500

Spec jones
Hell no, he is a coward and a discrace to the Army and the United States in general. He deserted his post and willingly disobeyed his general order

Response by SGT James Colwell made Dec 6 at 2016 9:08 AM

SGT James Colwell — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 09:08:03 -0500

I'm offended that he is still referred to by his rank.

Response by PO2 Richard C. made Dec 6 at 2016 9:11 AM

PO2 Richard C. — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 09:11:23 -0500

SP5 Jim Taylor has it basically correct. The presidential pardon is SUPPOSED to be for those convicted of a crime, not for those accused of one. Under Article II Section 2 of the Constitution, the only unpardonable crime is impeachment, and there are some limits on sex offenses against children. Unfortunately, the incumbent president (I never put his name in writing) does basically have free rein to do what he wants, whether or not there has been a conviction. Given his disdain for the country he leads, I would not be surprised if POTUS (Piece Of Totally Useless Shit) gave the USA a final fxxx you as he goes out the door. Trump? He'd volunteer to take charge of the firing squad.

Response by SSG Vincent Wilson made Dec 6 at 2016 9:23 AM

SSG Vincent Wilson — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 09:23:29 -0500

They should be cell mates.

Response by MSgt John Kearns made Dec 6 at 2016 9:28 AM

MSgt John Kearns — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 09:28:15 -0500

He i8s a deserter. His desertion is responsible for deaths in our troops.

Response by CPO Michael Bohannon made Dec 6 at 2016 9:28 AM

CPO Michael Bohannon — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 09:28:55 -0500

What he deserves is a firing squad, and if not that a quick and immediate reduction to E-1 and pay back ALL pay given to him from the time he walked off post.

Response by SFC Leo McIntyre made Dec 6 at 2016 9:30 AM

SFC Leo McIntyre — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 09:30:07 -0500

NO, and we ALL know that obummer should NOT intervene into UCMJ proceedings BEFORE they are finished. But, based on O's actions when birddog was released (bringing his parents to the WH), he'll probably do it to save face with the liberal media who would rip his ass if he didn't... And, what if he does give him a pardon BEFORE the proceedings are done? Wouldn't that technically 'taint' them?!?!? I think so! Either way, I think We The People are going to get one more 'in your face, what are YOU going to do about it' from this asshat-in-chief because he loathes Our military! Sad, but true...

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 6 at 2016 9:36 AM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 09:36:53 -0500

No, he should not. SGT Bergdahl must face the court martial he is supposed to face and receive the judgment of the jurors, no matter the verdict. The verdict must be based on the evidence.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 6 at 2016 9:41 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 09:41:11 -0500

How about the men in his platoon who died trying to find him when he deserted. Those of you 96% who think you should be pardoned must be pencil pushers who has never seen combat. You 96 percenters your week. Maybe next time someone in your unit desserts runs over to the enemy and get you killed.

Response by SPC Geoffrey Jenkins made Dec 6 at 2016 9:46 AM

SPC Geoffrey Jenkins — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 09:46:32 -0500

Hell no,
who knows he probably fed the enemy information while being interrogated(f@#k him)!

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 6 at 2016 10:04 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 10:04:00 -0500

He is a traitor who got good men killed trying to find him. Justice demands that he be court-martialed but knowing Obama he probably will pardon him. God bless Donald Trump

Response by SN Michael Smith made Dec 6 at 2016 10:13 AM

SN Michael Smith — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 10:13:59 -0500

I for one cannot say one way or another as I don't have access to all the facts. I know that the main stream media had conflicting information about this and sometimes redacted stories.

A military court found him guilty and sentenced him. Unless there is some overwhelming new evidence, I say let the sentence stand.

I am of the old school way of thinking...If caught in the field a diserter found working with or for the enemy is SHOT on sight.

Response by MCPO Tom Miller made Dec 6 at 2016 10:36 AM

MCPO Tom Miller — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 10:36:42 -0500

Moreover, this improper impingement from this social engineering President is far removed from just basic standards of the proven code of military conduct! His view of good military order is to pay for gender surgery for his transgender members! We have been led by the "Change" President who has set an agenda of distructive behavior within our military by creating different classes with regulations toward secularism and confusion! Where is that position of the fittest, pride, team unity, true competition and emulation of the best trained? Shame is his selected hierarchy of defense secretaries, flag officers and progressive PC leadership brought into the military to deplete a well designed competent and powerful armed forces with a history of strong leadership! To let this deserter walk is inexcusable and against all logic of military order! This includes this General who sided with a deserter!

Response by Robert Kern made Dec 6 at 2016 10:44 AM

Robert Kern — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 10:44:06 -0500

He should get a medal of honor and a participation trophy, come on guys, it's 2016. He just read his map and compass wrong

Response by MSgt Terry Dorsey made Dec 6 at 2016 10:52 AM

MSgt Terry Dorsey — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 10:52:06 -0500

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 6 at 2016 10:53 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 10:53:00 -0500

Can you even be pardoned if you haven't been convicted or sentenced yet?

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 6 at 2016 10:57 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 10:57:19 -0500

Negative! As was mentioned in this thread, Pres. Nixon was a prime example of how this system works! The Laws are never any better than the Law makers! You've heard of the "Texas Two-Step?" Well, this is the "Washington Two-Step!" All the best! - TOP

Response by PO3 Christine Hart made Dec 6 at 2016 11:19 AM

PO3 Christine Hart — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 11:19:34 -0500

Not even not, but HELL NO!! The ass hat did something absolutely despicable. You take an oath to defend your country, your fellow (wo)man and not to leave your post. Being allowed the benefits and promotions he has already been given, should be stripped. His ass should be in prison and put in with some hard core Marines, Navy Seals and Rangers. Let them sort it out behind closed bars at night.

Response by Sgt Diane Jankowski made Dec 6 at 2016 11:50 AM

Sgt Diane Jankowski — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 11:50:08 -0500

This man deserted and caused a lot of issues. Now while he may be remorseful, he knew he was deserting and he knew the penalty for that.

Response by GySgt David Weihausen made Dec 6 at 2016 12:01 PM

GySgt David Weihausen — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 12:01:03 -0500

https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/should-president-obama-pardon-sgt-bowe-bergdahl?cid=9834&email_token=ZGxsWk9XNWFOUzlWY1dKaVUyMXFiemhRVkZreWJXVmxiVlJDTUVGUUwwNUpSRUZGU1RkallYWjVUVDB0TFRaV1ZsWjZSRkZFWVhOQmIyMVhlVWRSV0c0MlNGRTlQUT09LS0zMjIyMjQyNzkxNTY4NjkwZDM2OTQ2NGU1N2NmMjc3YTA4YzdkN2Nm&px=59180ff1-fdec-4b21-8959-efd9fb443802&utm_campaign=admin-digest&utm_content=discussions&utm_medium=unpaid&utm_source=email#

Should President Obama pardon SGT Bowe Bergdahl? | RallyPoint

Response by PFC Stephen Eric Serati made Dec 6 at 2016 12:16 PM

PFC Stephen Eric Serati — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 12:16:57 -0500

Bergdahl should have been removed from the frontlines sooner so as to not comprise his fellow soldiers.The chain of command shares in some of the blame and to bad they won't admit it,because to fix the next problem you have admit you dropped the ball.All this shaming does is makes it harder for the next soldier having issues to come forward.

Response by MGySgt Gerry Sweeten made Dec 6 at 2016 12:31 PM

MGySgt Gerry Sweeten — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 12:31:30 -0500

Absolutely NOT!!!!!!

Response by SPC Negel Mohammed made Dec 6 at 2016 12:32 PM

SPC Negel Mohammed — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 12:32:31 -0500

If he get the Pardon good for him , but many in here seem to live up to the AR 100%. If he is held to this standard for the crime I truly hope everyone else should also be to. " The Money Machine within the DOD"

Response by SSgt Clare May made Dec 6 at 2016 12:43 PM

SSgt Clare May — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 12:43:43 -0500

This unfit maggot should be shot in his worthless dick and left to bleed out from having his dick and balls shot off. But... he wont. Why? Liberal pansy ass politicians can not stand the sight of a maggot bleeding out and his poor parents will cry in front of the damn cameras how much an asshole like me is and I should somehow be ashamed of what I think and feel about this piece of shit. This sick safe place puppy loving fuck joined our military, in the time of war... a volunteer military at that. What this maggot fucker did, and the lives of those he endangered and placed in harms way is unforgivable. Fry this fuck on a very low current and let every liberal wanna be joining our military so they can find "their" safeplace marshmallow comfort zone a nice place...in hell. This ass was promoted...absentia to the rank of a non commissioned officer... that needs to be stripped of his status and why that hasn't happened already is pissing me off. This maggot isn't a non com material, he wasn't a war time soldier material... and finding out that he wasn't a war time soldier during the time of war, in a war zone has consequences...I didn't force this sick pervert to join, you didn't either.. Why you continue to permit the known liberal media to continue this story to the masses is nothing short of disgusting. I as a taxpayer do not want to spend any more money housing or feeding this shitbird. Grant him a head stone, label it as "TRAITOR" and carve them letters deep into that piece of granite at the top, just above his worthless name, and know this...after his dna is burnt, this maggot will not breed.

You asked me what I thought... this is what I think. You cannot change my thought process, nor can you alter my mind. If you don't like the use of my language and the vulgarity of it...I used it to firmly set my stance on this issue. You don't have to read either and you can and move on. This maggot continues to insult me by his mere existence. Let him play soldier with all the dead pansy ass liberals in hell.

Response by PO1 Jack Howell made Dec 6 at 2016 12:52 PM

PO1 Jack Howell — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 12:52:57 -0500

I think that this is a rhetorical question. The answer is no.

Response by CWO4 David Smith made Dec 6 at 2016 1:05 PM

CWO4 David Smith — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 13:05:43 -0500

NO! NEGATIVE!! NO WAY, NO HOW, NO SHAPE , NO FORM!!!
BESIDES, if he is NOT GUILTY he DOESNT NEED a PARDON...............IF he IS GUILTY he needs to be PUNISHED to the FULLEST EXTENT UNDER the LAW!!!

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 6 at 2016 1:21 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 13:21:54 -0500

The kid is mentally ill. Combat isn't for everyone, as a matter of fact I do not recommend it for anyone. My wife says I still "wake up" screaming, wake-up means I am conscious. He was another soldier that needed help, didnt get it, he'd hardly be a foot note if had just committed suicide, am I right?

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 6 at 2016 1:26 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 13:26:17 -0500

Absolutely NOT!

He is at worst a coward and deserter, who abandoned his post in combat and cost lives of those looking for him... at best he is a fool who has a personality disorder and was raised to think he was a "special snowflake" and Jason Bourne combined. I'd sure like to know which. Pardoning him short circuits the process. Plus there are allegations I will NOT repeat as I was not there (my old unit replaced his in Afghanistan and NCOs like to talk) that I sure hope would come out at a trial IF they were true. (Don't ask)

If anything, the conviction needs to come first, then a pardon. Why pardon him unless you know what he was convicted of? Unless you're trying to make the bad optics go away for purely political reasons. I just don't see that happening.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 6 at 2016 2:06 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 14:06:23 -0500

Let me ask you guys a question: when you were in basic did any of you notice that there was one or two guys in your training company that really shouldn't be in the Army? I know I did and it seemed that they were weeded out however when I got to my final outfit I saw that there was 1 or 2 in my company that I wouldn't trust any further than I could throw them. Somehow they made it past the weeding out process and I'm sure you guys know the type they bullshit their way thru, they ghost, they never volunteer for anything and always are first in the chow line but when TSHF they disappear faster than the invisible man. And this was was in the 82ND AIRBORNE DIV. My point is that he shouldn't have been in the military in the first place. My gut felling is no but when I think about it I say yes and if he ever realizes what exactly he has done then he will have to deal with it I think that when a person can't get away from himself and it festers and festers maybe he will man enough to take his own life then the guys that were wounded or killed in vain because of his desertion there is another thing to think about and that is what if he was captured those arabs are pretty sneaky little bastards and they are torturous bastards too and what they would do to legionnaires when they got a hold of one was as terrible and terrifying as anything that I have heard of. They probably threatened him with alittle of that medicine and he sang like a canary he should not have been in the military in the first place. DI's can teach what honor, duty, intestinal fortitude, fidelity, loyalty is but they can't make the trainees live those virtues. He was only following his Comander In Cheif Obama bin a dickhead all his life's example there is where fault is and don't forget the one who let the fags in

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 6 at 2016 2:09 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 14:09:58 -0500

Let me ask you guys a question: when you were in basic did any of you notice that there was one or two guys in your training company that really shouldn't be in the Army? I know I did and it seemed that they were weeded out however when I got to my final outfit I saw that there was 1 or 2 in my company that I wouldn't trust any further than I could throw them. Somehow they made it past the weeding out process and I'm sure you guys know the type they bullshit their way thru, they ghost, they never volunteer for anything and always are first in the chow line but when TSHF they disappear faster than the invisible man. And this was was in the 82ND AIRBORNE DIV. My point is that he shouldn't have been in the military in the first place. My gut felling is no but when I think about it I say yes and if he ever realizes what exactly he has done then he will have to deal with it I think that when a person can't get away from himself and it festers and festers maybe he will man enough to take his own life then the guys wouldn't have been wounded or killed in vain because of his desertion. there is another thing to think about and that is what if he was captured those arabs are pretty sneaky little bastards and they are torturous bastards too and what they would do to legionnaires when they got a hold of one was as terrible and terrifying as anything that I have heard of. They probably threatened him with alittle of that medicine and he sang like a canary he should not have been in the military in the first place. DI's can teach what honor, duty, intestinal fortitude, fidelity, loyalty is but they can't make the trainees live those virtues. He was only following his Comander In Cheif Obama bin a dickhead all his life's example there is where fault is and don't forget the one who let the fags in

Response by Maj Marty Hogan made Dec 6 at 2016 2:27 PM

Maj Marty Hogan — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 14:27:54 -0500

SGM Matthew Quick I can't believe it is even a thought...or actually an option. Court martial should be the only ruling heard.

Response by Sgt William Straub Jr. made Dec 6 at 2016 2:32 PM

Sgt William Straub Jr. — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 14:32:45 -0500

Based on what I have observed of this POTUS, I would not be in the least surprised if he gave Bergdahl a full pardon. They both seem to serve Al Qaida and ISIS in action and inaction. Traitors.

Response by PO1 Frank Reiffenstein made Dec 6 at 2016 3:11 PM

PO1 Frank Reiffenstein — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 15:11:08 -0500

H e Double hockey sticks No. Hang Him. A lot of people died looking for his Traitorous butt. Don't do the crime if you can't so the time.

Response by SPC Fred Scholl made Dec 6 at 2016 3:19 PM

SPC Fred Scholl — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 15:19:21 -0500

You don't pardon traitors who leave their buddies behind. What should be activated is the firing squad. I'm sure there would be plenty of volunteers. Me for one.

Response by SFC Raymond Davis made Dec 6 at 2016 3:26 PM

SFC Raymond Davis — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 15:26:27 -0500

A firing squid would be better

Response by SSG Alfonso Pagan made Dec 6 at 2016 4:02 PM

SSG Alfonso Pagan — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 16:02:46 -0500

PVT Bowe Bergdahl needs to assume responsibility for his actions. He needs to have the rank that Soldiers get for doing lesser infractions and the punishment Soldiers get for lesser infractions. So he can take his reduction in rank way overdue and his prison time. Not to include the time with the taliban as time serve, that is what an American get by walking by himself in that country, not a punishment for what he did.

Response by SFC Jim Ruether made Dec 6 at 2016 4:03 PM

SFC Jim Ruether — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 16:03:03 -0500

Accused of endangering his comrades this traitor was personally responsible for six of his fellow soldiers deaths when they were shot up looking for him. This traitor needs to be executed!

Response by SN Terry Poynter made Dec 6 at 2016 4:42 PM

SN Terry Poynter — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 16:42:30 -0500

Hell No. You don't pardon a man that deserted in the face of the enemy, that deserted TO THE OTHER SIDE. Soldiers DIED searching for him.

Response by SGT Linda Moss made Dec 6 at 2016 5:04 PM

SGT Linda Moss — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 17:04:53 -0500

fuck No they should have shot the MF..and I would have been glad to do it .. free of charge .. but with a gut shot so he could hurt for a long time. I hate when they would show his picture in uniform. He should be put in a cell and the door left unlocked at night ... and the camera turned off .

Response by SSgt Brad Becker made Dec 6 at 2016 5:07 PM

SSgt Brad Becker — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 17:07:41 -0500

Hell no Grind his ass up and feed him to some hogs.

Response by SPC Sheila Lewis made Dec 6 at 2016 5:44 PM

SPC Sheila Lewis — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 17:44:23 -0500

No.

Response by SFC Stan Lavery made Dec 6 at 2016 5:50 PM

SFC Stan Lavery — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 17:50:43 -0500

This one merits a "fuck no" button

Response by SFC Stan Lavery made Dec 6 at 2016 5:51 PM

SFC Stan Lavery — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 17:51:05 -0500

This one merits a "fuck no" button

Response by GySgt Charles O'Connell made Dec 6 at 2016 6:05 PM

GySgt Charles O'Connell — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 18:05:40 -0500

I don't know Bergdahl. What I do know of him comes solely from the Internet and what is offered in the print and electronic media, also from comments made about him by his former comrades. From this I come to the conclusion that he is an oxygen bandit. For reasons only fathomable to one that has spent time in "Bergdahl Land" he committed actions that have lead his being charged with gross derelictions of duty. You screwed the pooch Soldier, so suck it up and take responsibility for your actions. If you can, stand up before your Court Martial and defend yourself, explain your actions, if you're packing a pair. If not... stand up and admit to being a dumbass. Either way accept responsibility for your actions.

Response by SCPO Lonny Randolph made Dec 6 at 2016 6:18 PM

SCPO Lonny Randolph — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 18:18:00 -0500

The squalid booger picker should be hung by his miniscule nads and flogged to death. The befouled flog should then be burned and doused with urine provided by diseased monkeys... Am I being too harsh?

Response by PO1 Donald Vinson made Dec 6 at 2016 7:03 PM

PO1 Donald Vinson — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 19:03:52 -0500

Not No, but "HELL NO", just my opinion.

Response by CWO3 Dave Alcantara made Dec 6 at 2016 8:29 PM

CWO3 Dave Alcantara — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 20:29:11 -0500

Sgt Begdahl deserves his day in court.

A pardon is not fair to anyone involved. The service deserves the truth.

Response by SPC Jasen E. made Dec 6 at 2016 8:33 PM

SPC Jasen E. — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 20:33:07 -0500

Absolutely not! He collaborated with the enemy and people died trying to rescue him on the pretense that he had been captured. He went willingly and others paid the price for it. He does NOT deserve a pardon. ON the contrary, he deserves a lengthy Leavenworth sentence. But then, I wouldn't put it past Obama for pardoning him. It is on par with everything else the guy has done in office. Obama is likely to reward Bergdahl's actions with a pardon.

Response by LCpl Steve Smith made Dec 6 at 2016 9:02 PM

LCpl Steve Smith — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 21:02:14 -0500

No...Noooooo, No Means No! Just say No! He should just be very very Grateful he's able to walk, talk and breath here in the states instead of facing old military sentencing for his type of crimes.

Response by CMC Neil Holmdahl made Dec 6 at 2016 9:36 PM

CMC Neil Holmdahl — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 21:36:32 -0500

Nope. Hang him if found guilty....

Response by Jessie R. Smith Jr. made Dec 6 at 2016 9:57 PM

Jessie R. Smith Jr. — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 21:57:05 -0500

He should have never joined in the first place! What he did was unpardonable (no pun intended)

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 6 at 2016 10:52 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 22:52:14 -0500

No. Just... no...

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 6 at 2016 11:06 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 23:06:16 -0500

People lost their lives for his actions. He actions were not part of the mission. He is responsible for his own actions and justice shall serve him what he deserves

Response by CPT Aaron Kletzing made Dec 6 at 2016 11:08 PM

CPT Aaron Kletzing — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 23:08:04 -0500

He should get life in prison or worse

Response by PO1 James White made Dec 7 at 2016 12:52 AM

PO1 James White — Wed, 07 Dec 2016 00:52:28 -0500

Hell no! He should be receive a court martial and after some time in the brig, given a dishonorable discharge.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 7 at 2016 1:09 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 07 Dec 2016 01:09:17 -0500

I would like to know how many of those Taliban exchanged for the traitor are still alive? Hopefully those men were all killed by drone strikes, CAS or died in combat.

Response by Sgt James Whittington made Dec 7 at 2016 1:17 AM

Sgt James Whittington — Wed, 07 Dec 2016 01:17:08 -0500

Yes, BUT, only after he has been hanged for desertion in the face of the enemy.

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 7 at 2016 5:39 AM

LCpl Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 07 Dec 2016 05:39:57 -0500

and embarrass himself further?

Response by TSgt Thomas Monaghan made Dec 7 at 2016 9:06 AM

TSgt Thomas Monaghan — Wed, 07 Dec 2016 09:06:40 -0500

Absolutely positively not

Response by SSG Wally Lawver made Dec 7 at 2016 10:08 AM

SSG Wally Lawver — Wed, 07 Dec 2016 10:08:06 -0500

hell no.

Response by SP5 Hugh Brown made Dec 7 at 2016 11:25 AM

SP5 Hugh Brown — Wed, 07 Dec 2016 11:25:14 -0500

Not only NO, but HELL NO!

Response by MSgt Theresa Ferguson made Dec 7 at 2016 12:49 PM

MSgt Theresa Ferguson — Wed, 07 Dec 2016 12:49:17 -0500

When one joins the military they are aware that they may be sent down range. I have seen a number of individuals in the military who are immature but they know right from wrong. Being immature isn't a defensible act because we hold people accountable everyday for their immature acts on duty, some are no longer serving. This guy, yes I don't believe his gender assignment crap, put lives at risk when he decided to walk away from his post. A parody is not in order for his actions. I also don't believe that he should be authorized gender reassignment surgery. If he identified with being a female prior to. Wing in the military then he shouldn't be allowed the surgery, it's elective surgery. How many active duty members have to pay for their own elective surgery? Get your reassignment completed prior to coming in the military then join if you want to be in the military. Too many will join then expect the military to cover the bill. The government already wants to cut so much as it is.

Response by MSgt Shawn Sones made Dec 7 at 2016 1:00 PM

MSgt Shawn Sones — Wed, 07 Dec 2016 13:00:55 -0500

This disgusting waste of human flesh belongs in front of a firing squad with Obasturd and Killary, imho

Response by SGT Price Compton made Dec 7 at 2016 3:28 PM

SGT Price Compton — Wed, 07 Dec 2016 15:28:50 -0500

I wold hope that the president understands that with the incoming administration there will be a huge shortage of "gravel" with all the infrastructure work to be done to roads and bridges; therefore we will need more personnel making little rocks out of big rocks in the quarries of Leavenworth. Hence we should all join in petitioning the president that it would be re-missive that such a fine individual be not involved in such an honorable undertaking of Making America Great Again.
Then again that may be a little to soft for the crime.
Definition: POS- burgdhal

Response by SFC Joseph Weber made Dec 7 at 2016 4:47 PM

SFC Joseph Weber — Wed, 07 Dec 2016 16:47:03 -0500

Not a chance. Pardon some drug dealers, let this guy rot.

Response by CPT Larry Hudson made Dec 7 at 2016 5:12 PM

CPT Larry Hudson — Wed, 07 Dec 2016 17:12:10 -0500

No, his lack of responsibility cost the lives of soldiers, threatened the security of his unit and violated general order number one.

Response by MAJ David Wallace made Dec 7 at 2016 6:33 PM

MAJ David Wallace — Wed, 07 Dec 2016 18:33:03 -0500

Sergeant Bo Birddog is a disgrace to the Army uniform. Several good and honorable men died or were wounded while looking for that sniveling coward. He defected to the enemy during a time of war. He betrayed his squad, his unit, and everything that Warriors hold sacred. He doesn't deserve to be among the living, and certainly does not deserve a pardon.

Response by LTC Charles T Dalbec made Dec 7 at 2016 6:41 PM

LTC Charles T Dalbec — Wed, 07 Dec 2016 18:41:50 -0500

Why should an Army deserter be pardoned by the Potus. PVT Bergdahm is under YCMJ and military jurisdiction and not federal or state control and would not be recognized by
the Potus.

Response by LTC Charles T Dalbec made Dec 7 at 2016 6:42 PM

LTC Charles T Dalbec — Wed, 07 Dec 2016 18:42:43 -0500

He should be reduced to E1 ASAP.

Response by 1SG Jack Crutcher made Dec 7 at 2016 6:52 PM

1SG Jack Crutcher — Wed, 07 Dec 2016 18:52:25 -0500

No, hell no , hell to the no, no way and any other ways you can think of to say no !

Response by SFC Tom Carey made Dec 8 at 2016 7:52 AM

SFC Tom Carey — Thu, 08 Dec 2016 07:52:04 -0500

Hell no!

Response by SPC Earl Edgell made Dec 8 at 2016 11:28 AM

SPC Earl Edgell — Thu, 08 Dec 2016 11:28:18 -0500

Hell no he shouldn't, fry that fucker

Response by SPC Earl Edgell made Dec 8 at 2016 11:31 AM

SPC Earl Edgell — Thu, 08 Dec 2016 11:31:32 -0500

Hell no, he deserves the firing squad

Response by Cpl Jeff Ruffing made Dec 8 at 2016 1:20 PM

Cpl Jeff Ruffing — Thu, 08 Dec 2016 13:20:26 -0500

If what the media is saying is true, that he deserted his post to join the enemy, then why is he still breathing? However, if it is not the truth ( because there is so much misinformation out there) what is the truth? If he was honestly innocent, then pardon the man, if not, we don't need anymore Jane Fonda's in our country

Response by Joseph Lane made Dec 8 at 2016 7:19 PM

Joseph Lane — Thu, 08 Dec 2016 19:19:50 -0500

This low-life should never ever again set foot in his mother country the United States of America, let the Muslims have them.

Response by SN Bryan King made Dec 9 at 2016 3:35 PM

SN Bryan King — Fri, 09 Dec 2016 15:35:17 -0500

If while he is at it reinstate Benedict Arnold to full 4 star General, then bury him at Arlington with full military honors!

Response by SPC Sean Martin made Dec 11 at 2016 9:14 AM

SPC Sean Martin — Sun, 11 Dec 2016 09:14:50 -0500

Absolutely NOT!!! General Order #1, I will quick my post, only when properly relieved. He is a disgrace to himself, the Army, and fellow solders. He deserves No sympathy, and should be stripped of all positives, he may have earned. He blatantly broke rules for a solder, and there are consequences he must face now.

Response by Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth made Dec 12 at 2016 1:57 PM

Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth — Mon, 12 Dec 2016 13:57:51 -0500

Hecks to the NO!!! He walked away from his brothers in arms and got some killed and injured looking for his sorry butt. He walked away with his back to us and I think we should do the same by putting him in a jail cell 23 hrs a day and walk away. Can't believe we are still spouting his name. ARRRGGHHHH. Gotta love the waste of my tax dollars here!!!

Response by CSM Andrew Perrault made Dec 14 at 2016 11:37 AM

CSM Andrew Perrault — Wed, 14 Dec 2016 11:37:30 -0500

Not No but hell No!

Response by PO3 John Keas made Dec 14 at 2016 6:30 PM

PO3 John Keas — Wed, 14 Dec 2016 18:30:22 -0500

All kinds of the nope

Response by SSgt Michael Cox made Dec 14 at 2016 6:47 PM

SSgt Michael Cox — Wed, 14 Dec 2016 18:47:11 -0500

He should face a firing squad of men from the units that lost people looking for him when he ran off looking for the Taliban.

Response by Sgt Kevin Curl made Dec 14 at 2016 7:23 PM

Sgt Kevin Curl — Wed, 14 Dec 2016 19:23:44 -0500

Not only no but hell no . He should be hung or shot in firing squad !

Response by MSgt Shawn Sones made Dec 15 at 2016 3:43 PM

MSgt Shawn Sones — Thu, 15 Dec 2016 15:43:32 -0500

No, after the men in his unit testified, he should be lined up in the same firing squad with Obasturd and Killary

Response by SPC Sheila Lewis made Dec 15 at 2016 4:40 PM

SPC Sheila Lewis — Thu, 15 Dec 2016 16:40:30 -0500

No. What he did shows a lack of discipline.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 16 at 2016 10:42 AM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 16 Dec 2016 10:42:50 -0500

He should be pardoned on the grounds of mental incompetence....

Response by Maj Chip Potts made Dec 21 at 2016 8:08 AM

Maj Chip Potts — Wed, 21 Dec 2016 08:08:36 -0500

This deserter caused the death and injury of his comrades and embarrassment to the United States in time of war, in the face of the enemy. He needs to be court martialed and executed.

Response by SSG John Karr made Dec 22 at 2016 1:32 PM

SSG John Karr — Thu, 22 Dec 2016 13:32:52 -0500

http://www.military.com/daily-news/2016/12/21/bergdahl-not-on-obamas-december-pardon-list.html

This article on Military.com is well worth the read and should answer a lot of questions raised here.

Bergdahl Not on Obama's December Pardon List

President Obama has granted 78 people pre-Christmas pardons. But accused Army deserter Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl was not among them.

Response by SPC Jamie Smith made Dec 22 at 2016 2:27 PM

SPC Jamie Smith — Thu, 22 Dec 2016 14:27:16 -0500

Absolutely NOT,but he probably will . Thank God we are soon finished with him.

Response by SSG Mark Franzen made Dec 22 at 2016 7:28 PM

SSG Mark Franzen — Thu, 22 Dec 2016 19:28:15 -0500

In my option walking off his Post is wrong and jeopardize other personnel in his command
and Goes to show someone doesn't Know The general orders so maybe he should have not done That.
SSG MARK FRANZEN
USA VET

Response by CPT Richard Riley made Dec 25 at 2016 4:14 PM

CPT Richard Riley — Sun, 25 Dec 2016 16:14:41 -0500

I can't think of enough different ways to say NO.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2016 9:41 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 27 Dec 2016 09:41:14 -0500

Absolutely not! Reduce his rank to E nothing and hang him from the gallows.

Response by SPC Charles Abt Jr. made Dec 27 at 2016 9:25 PM

SPC Charles Abt Jr. — Tue, 27 Dec 2016 21:25:53 -0500

This POS got good men killed looking for his sorry ass. I don't know why he's still breathing.

Response by Pat McCracken made Dec 28 at 2016 12:35 PM

Pat McCracken — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 12:35:14 -0500

No Way!!! He had an a responsibility to his team and he not only abandoned the team, but abandoned a direct order. In the old days, a firing squad would probably have been the consequence. It would be a disgraceful action if he's pardoned, and a slap in the face to every active duty and veteran.

Response by SSgt Bruce Wood made Dec 28 at 2016 12:43 PM

SSgt Bruce Wood — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 12:43:13 -0500

No I don't believe he should be pardoned and it should be left to his commanding officer and court martial of what happens. Besides he has not been convicted yet so the president should have no authority to pardon him.

Response by CPL Jose Rubio made Dec 28 at 2016 2:25 PM

CPL Jose Rubio — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 14:25:52 -0500

Pardon? seriously? Did he not take the same oath we did?

Response by Cpl John Mathews made Dec 29 at 2016 10:01 AM

Cpl John Mathews — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 10:01:36 -0500

Hell no! Court martial, dishonourable discharge/bad conduct discharge, loss of all pay and benefits, reduction in rank to private, release from duty without further confinement than time already served.

Response by SPC Byron Skinner made Dec 29 at 2016 3:49 PM

SPC Byron Skinner — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 15:49:55 -0500

Sp4 Byron Skinner. No. This is a military matter. Like all military issues the fault and responsibility goes deeper then the surface. By giving the accused Sgt. Berghahl a pardon President may be letting a lot of others off the hook. Although I don't see any possible wrong doing beyond Sgt. Bergdahl we simply don't know. A Court Marshal will clear the decks and that is what this story needs all accountable held as such.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2016 4:06 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 16:06:44 -0500

Hell no he shouldn't be pardoned. A lot of troops risked their lives to find this scumbag and it turned out that he deserted his post. Let him rot in a cell

Response by SSgt Jim Gilmore made Dec 31 at 2016 12:21 AM

SSgt Jim Gilmore — Sat, 31 Dec 2016 00:21:58 -0500

HELL NO!

Response by Sgt Charles Malcom made Jan 2 at 2017 2:41 PM

Sgt Charles Malcom — Mon, 02 Jan 2017 14:41:40 -0500

This man knew what he was doing when he deserted; he was just a young Corporal, but he thought he knew more than the senior NCOs and Officers he served under. I don't really believe he was held as a prisoner, he remained with the enemy on his own volition. If Obama pardons Bergdahl then every man/woman who has been convicted of desertion/awol and forfeited pay and allowances for their offense should also be pardoned and their records cleared and all their pay that was forfeited should be returned to them or to their heirs. Obama talks of a pardon for Bergdahl because HE (Obama) is Muslim and he sympathizes with this deserter. He deserves to be tried by General Courts Martial. Let the chips fall where they may.

Response by SFC David Ocasio made Jan 2 at 2017 5:41 PM

SFC David Ocasio — Mon, 02 Jan 2017 17:41:29 -0500

Hell NO I wonder why this person is not in jail yet. He needs,to pay for being a deserter and for those who lost their lives searching for him. What a dam disgrace

Response by SPC David Hack made Jan 2 at 2017 6:20 PM

SPC David Hack — Mon, 02 Jan 2017 18:20:03 -0500

Not only no but also HELL NO!

Response by SSG Darrin Roark made Jan 5 at 2017 12:43 PM

SSG Darrin Roark — Thu, 05 Jan 2017 12:43:04 -0500

Just for the record here, this is coming from a combat veteran with nearly 30 years of service in the Army. I definitely believe that he needs to be punished for doing what he did but I highly doubt that Bergdahl will be given a Life Sentence and at the end of it all, he will most likely end up with some sort of a Presidential Pardon out of all of this. Given what the political climate that is in place nowadays and the over-all unpopularity of this war very much in the same way that the Vietnam War was 40-something years ago, I believe that a much more realistic, fitting and just punishment for this offense would be to simply give him a prison sentence to be served in calendar or flat time equal to the amount of time he spent in the Army and in captivity of the Taliban. He should also be reduced to E-1, forfeit all pay and allowances and be dishonorably discharged. That still amounts to a very significant punishment because he will be doing approximately 5 to 10 years in calendar or flat time with no chance for parole whatsoever. Furthermore, he will also have to live with the stigma of a dishonorable discharge and the consequences of his actions for the rest of his life after he gets out of prison.

Response by CPT Richard Riley made Jan 5 at 2017 9:24 PM

CPT Richard Riley — Thu, 05 Jan 2017 21:24:20 -0500

Shirking duty and then asking forgiveness is not a good way forward.

Response by SSG George Pruitt made Jan 10 at 2017 11:21 AM

SSG George Pruitt — Tue, 10 Jan 2017 11:21:11 -0500

Hell no

Response by CPO Paul Niehaus made Jan 11 at 2017 12:36 AM

CPO Paul Niehaus — Wed, 11 Jan 2017 00:36:47 -0500

Oh HELL NO! Neither one of them should be pardoned!

Response by SFC Jim Ruether made Jan 11 at 2017 7:16 PM

SFC Jim Ruether — Wed, 11 Jan 2017 19:16:16 -0500

How can they give him the title of "Former Prisoner of War". He walked away from his post. No one captured this idiot, he walked right into their hands. He was in surprisingly good shape for being in captivity all that time as well. Captive my ass! Prisoner of War Bull Shit!

Response by SPC Juanita Anderson made Jan 12 at 2017 2:59 PM

SPC Juanita Anderson — Thu, 12 Jan 2017 14:59:00 -0500

He walked off his post and people were hurt for his actions

Response by SSG George Pruitt made Jan 12 at 2017 8:51 PM

SSG George Pruitt — Thu, 12 Jan 2017 20:51:33 -0500

Hell no

Response by TSgt Kenneth Ellis made Jan 13 at 2017 10:53 AM

TSgt Kenneth Ellis — Fri, 13 Jan 2017 10:53:10 -0500

No. My fear he will pardon Bradly Manning.

Response by MSG Frederick Otero made Jan 19 at 2017 12:16 PM

MSG Frederick Otero — Thu, 19 Jan 2017 12:16:04 -0500

NO!

Response by Cpl Kevin Krause made Jan 24 at 2017 10:22 AM

Cpl Kevin Krause — Tue, 24 Jan 2017 10:22:48 -0500

Hell no by order he is a deserter and should be hung by the neck till he is dead as it states.

Response by Cpl Kevin Krause made Jan 24 at 2017 10:23 AM

Cpl Kevin Krause — Tue, 24 Jan 2017 10:23:48 -0500

Hell no by order he is a deserter and should be hung by the neck until he is dead as it states

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 24 at 2017 11:25 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Jan 2017 11:25:30 -0500

Nuf' said

Response by SPC Sheila Lewis made Jan 26 at 2017 3:02 PM

SPC Sheila Lewis — Thu, 26 Jan 2017 15:02:46 -0500

No.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 10 at 2017 4:48 AM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 10 Feb 2017 04:48:59 -0500

You realize Obama is no longer President, right?

Response by SFC Jim Ruether made Feb 28 at 2017 3:26 PM

SFC Jim Ruether — Tue, 28 Feb 2017 15:26:23 -0500

NO, HELL NO!

Response by SFC Mitch Mobus made Feb 28 at 2017 7:35 PM

SFC Mitch Mobus — Tue, 28 Feb 2017 19:35:02 -0500

If there's one lesson I learned from 20 years of service, we are unlikely to get the full story - even if there were court martial proceedings. First off, the President as Command in Chief clearly has the authority to pardon the accused. Second, his promotion may be struck by Court Martial, should he be convicted of charges warranting reduction and less-than-general discharge. Last, I dread any precedent that does less than deter such actions by other service members today or at any future date. Duty, honor, and courage - none of which asserts the latitude to walk away from your post and potentially cost the lives of other soldiers to search you out in order to someday learn the truth of what happened and why you went AWOL.

Response by SGT Winfred Longwith made Feb 28 at 2017 10:28 PM

SGT Winfred Longwith — Tue, 28 Feb 2017 22:28:24 -0500

Should b up to those he left unprotected when he walk away. He's a disgrace to the uniform I wore mine proudly sorry but fuck that bastard