What are the general thoughts about LTC Alexander Vindman from the field of retired as well as active military personnel?

2020-07-08T22:43:49-04:00

Today (8 Jul 2020) as noted in the papers, LTC Alexander Vindman supposedly submitted his retirement packet. It would be interesting to know what some military personnel feel about the LTC (as well as his brother) and their work while assigned as members of the NSC over the past couple years. His brother was also a part of the NSC, but in a different section as I understand it. I also read today that LTC A. Vindman was selected for COL, but probably did not know if it would have been approved since it required White House approval. Your thoughts on LTC Vindman's actions and his involvement in President Trump's US House of Representatives impeachment process? I have my personal opinions, but would like to know what the field thinks of his involvement during the whole process.

Response by SSG Roger Ayscue made Jul 8 at 2020 10:51 PM

2020-07-08T22:51:18-04:00

I believe that he endangered National Security as well as his brother and should be investigated by the Army for his conduct on the NSC.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 8 at 2020 11:37 PM

2020-07-08T23:37:14-04:00

Enjoy retirement, pretty sure he was done hanging out in the Ukraine with the great gig. He contradicted himself on the stand and went outside the CoC when he didnt like the results. Sorry but he will have a great time being called a "War Hero" on CNN but retirement is best for all involved.

Response by SPC Nancy Greene made Jul 9 at 2020 1:05 AM

2020-07-09T01:05:00-04:00

IMHO, I really do not support his receiving retirement pay due to the fact he played a role in the attempt to impeach his Commander in Chief while serving on Active Duty. His testimony was based upon false information and I feel he should be held accountable for his actions...just my two cents

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made Jul 9 at 2020 2:21 AM

2020-07-09T02:21:33-04:00

I don't know him at all, but he's an enigma to me. As I've sat senior officer boards before, here's the sequence. The Board has a specific range of stuff that's fair game to look at. He obviously got good paper from his reporting seniors. He made the Select List. Poisoning that wholly owned DoD process would have been catastrophic. The Service Secretary could remove his name before forwarding. The President could remove his name prior to forwarding to the Senate. Apparently a moot point now. So what are the outcomes? Promote and get upper half jobs or lower half jobs. Not likely to get upper half jobs to later compete for Flag as he is more than tainted goods. Always a cloud over him and every decision made about him. Serving for a few more years means he's quickly evaporated from the news cycle. Retiring now, as pointed out, likely has more high visibility job offers with commensurate compensation. Lots of paths forward. Pundit for CNN etc., head of a PAC, shift to a think tank; the list is long. That also allows the playing of the Patriot Card as he effectively cancels a renegade Senator with a grudge so his peers won't get held hostage for promotion. He's essentially viewed by some as taking a hit for the team. There could be a possibility of a "Retire or Else" scenario, but with DoD stuff leaking like a sieve, I haven't seen traction in that area. Also possible is a deal where everyone walks away. Doubt we'd ever see anything on that either if true. I will say there have been some heavy duty apparent conflicts of interest that I know I'd be sent to Keflavik a long time ago on. Some political gaming going on over the past couple years very likely to keep him in the inner circles. Bottom line, so many potential motivations, so many outcomes. There is always pressure for a quiet exit Stage Right business decision like what the Navy didn't do in the Chief Gallagher case. Yes, an enigma.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 9 at 2020 7:44 AM

2020-07-09T07:44:00-04:00

I wish him luck in his civilian career

Response by LCDR Joshua Gillespie made Jul 9 at 2020 8:27 AM

2020-07-09T08:27:45-04:00

Honestly? I'm a little miffed that in a career as competitive and prone to attrition as ours, some people are RIFTed, "black-balled", or otherwise cashiered for minor offenses and recoverable errors... but a serving O-5 can retire after unsuccessfully testifying against the CIC. I don't question the man's honor or integrity... I'm sure he said what he thought he should. I do however question his judgement and ultimate loyalties. I'm not entirely convinced his background and personal views did not impact his opinions on, and interpretations of things he witnessed or participated in.

Response by LTC John Griscom made Jul 9 at 2020 8:40 AM

2020-07-09T08:40:03-04:00

His actions were not the way I learned in the military. Who could ever trust him again?

Response by MSgt Steven Holt, NRP, CCEMT-P made Jul 9 at 2020 9:42 AM

2020-07-09T09:42:39-04:00

I hold no malice toward LTC Vindman personally but I do not understand how a serving officer was allowed to openly criticize his CINC without facts to back his allegations and be allowed to continue his service. From what I recall of his testimony under oath, I heard a lot of "I think...", "I believe...", and "I suppose...." but no facts or evidence to back his allegation. I've been in enough court rooms myself to know that won't get you anywhere. Never mind his admission UNDER OATH he was approached by a foreign government to accept a senior position in their government (ie: Ukranian SECDEF). THAT alone should have been enough grounds to immediately remove him from the NSC (and possibly even dismissal from the military, pending a full impartial investigation) in my opinion.

Response by MSG Stan Hutchison made Jul 9 at 2020 10:05 AM

2020-07-09T10:05:49-04:00

The right has trashed this man. A shame. He put the nation above his own career.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 9 at 2020 10:48 AM

2020-07-09T10:48:38-04:00

From the outside looking in, and listening to the comments of one officer here that served in a similar position: Vindman should have retired if he could not fulfill his responsibilities and obligations. He is a stain on honorable service. MHO

Response by 1SG Alan Boggs made Jul 9 at 2020 12:16 PM

2020-07-09T12:16:13-04:00

Another mine field to tip toe through. In todays cancel culture anyone still serving has to be very careful about what they say online.
Bottom line. The LTC let his political leanings influence his professional decisions. Not only that but at no time should any Army personnel make statements to the press unless specifically authorized.

Response by Capt Jeff S. made Jul 9 at 2020 12:27 PM

2020-07-09T12:27:30-04:00

He should have been busted and drummed out for participating in a soft coup against the President. No retirement.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 9 at 2020 1:37 PM

2020-07-09T13:37:34-04:00

He will make more money on book deals then he made during his entire military service.

Response by SPC Perry Gresham made Jul 9 at 2020 2:10 PM

2020-07-09T14:10:54-04:00

Without looking at any other comments and my opinions are my own. I think he is a gossiping little bitch and an absolute embarrasment to the armed services and the U.S. in general.

Response by SFC Casey O'Mally made Jul 9 at 2020 2:54 PM

2020-07-09T14:54:57-04:00

He chose a nuclear option. Against his boss's boss's boss's boss. No amount of MOPP gear is going to shield you from the radioactive backblast when you make that choice.
Regardless of whether he should have gone public (I do not think he should have - and I think he deserves to have his clearance suspended IMMEDIATELY pending investigation, and also should be investigated for possible court martial). Regardless of whether his statements were factual (I think they were far more opinion than fact). Regardless of whether he was "doing his job" (I do not think his public activities were part of his job, and in fact hindered his job performance).

None of that is truly relevant to the current situation. He went nuclear, and chose to retire rather than dealing with the fallout. Which is a smart move on his part (retirement, that is).

Response by PO2 William Rogers made Jul 9 at 2020 3:38 PM

2020-07-09T15:38:44-04:00

If he broke the CoC, he should have been busted down and sent to a new command, pure and simple...spending time with an infantry unit and training young men and women would help him remember what’s important.

Response by SPC Preston O'Connor made Jul 9 at 2020 6:08 PM

2020-07-09T18:08:35-04:00

He should have been court-martialed. It is distressing to think a soldier of his rank and experience displayed such poor judgement and never learned the difference between the truth and his opinion. He sets a poor example for other service members and his actions dishonored us all

Response by MSgt Stephen Council made Jul 9 at 2020 6:23 PM

2020-07-09T18:23:16-04:00

CSM Bob Stanek I think he should have been subject to courts martial proceedings. That would have kept us from even having this discussion. I am ashamed that he was a member if our armed services. But that's just my opinion.

Response by SGM Michael Womer made Jul 9 at 2020 8:34 PM

2020-07-09T20:34:48-04:00

Glad he is leaving

Response by MSgt Gilbert Jones made Jul 9 at 2020 9:36 PM

2020-07-09T21:36:15-04:00

I think he should wait until Trump is kicked out of office. He allowed Trump to win and that is a shame. What about is brother, is he going to retire to?

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 10 at 2020 3:31 PM

2020-07-10T15:31:07-04:00

That clown should have been court martialed for his actions. He showed no loyalty to his Commander in Chief because he disagreed with his policies in Ukraine so he "blew the whistle" on what he was told that was said in a phone call. The guy does not deserve to retire with full benefits. Before I retired, I disagreed with a lot of Obama's policies but as a Soldier/Officer it was not my place to complain let alone get him impeached.

Response by SMSgt Billy Cesarano made Jul 11 at 2020 2:40 PM

2020-07-11T14:40:08-04:00

There are many reasons and causes for the current discovery and disclosing of numerous nefarious individuals in positions of power and influence in every aspect of our American government, military and culture. Swamp creatures, as they are appropriately called, live in this before now, unknown swamp. As you drain it, the numbers and variations become visible and alarmingly so. What we as citizens who are ultimately responsible for the current situation under our Constitution should do is determine how the swamp was formed, filled and populated with these creatures. Institute accountability measures and extreme penalties that are so costly to those responsible it deters or prevents it from ever happening again. We are operating so grossly outside of the bounds of our Constitution that it no longer provides the individual freedom, liberty and government for and by the people for which it was founded upon for a very, very long time. Understand this simple truth. There are 3 dominant super powers. Russia, China and the USA. Two of the three are communist and they want it to be three. Our strength to resist this two against one lies in our constitution. It enables an economic powerhouse within each individual citizen which unbridled, is limitless. Destruction of these principles have been under relentless attack by enemies of individual freedom and liberty since before our country was founded. We Americans are truly unique in the history of the world and humanity and we have been losing ground to an evil existence that is patient and determined to enslave the world in centralized control of all individuals. There will be no escape. We are where the world wants to go to be free to be the best we can be as individuals. To exercise our beliefs free of fear. To institute only that level of government necessary to protect insure those freedoms and liberties and a well funded military to protect us from foreign and domestic threats. We do a decent job of the foreign threats but it was long ago determined that the way to destroy the USA is from within, by the creation of a swamp where the creatures can thrive and multiply into the forms and numbers we are getting a glimpse of now.

Response by SGM Thomas Terebesi Sr made Jul 11 at 2020 7:15 PM

2020-07-11T19:15:17-04:00

He probably retired after being snubbed by all the soldiers around him. A soldier disagreeing with the Commander in Chief's foreign policy. Unheard of. Lucky to get retired pay.

Response by CSM Thomas Ray made Jul 12 at 2020 8:41 AM

2020-07-12T08:41:23-04:00

I think he got a better offer portraying Pee Wee Herman's double.

Response by 1SG John Highfill made Jul 12 at 2020 9:05 AM

2020-07-12T09:05:39-04:00

With all respect enjoy your retirement

Response by SSG Paul Carrier made Jul 12 at 2020 9:32 PM

2020-07-12T21:32:57-04:00

From what I understand he commanded troops only once, at the company level.
I'd think he needs some leavening at at least a BN XO and maybe commander before pinning on eagles.

Not having that is disqualification in my mind.

As for his actions, he forgot he does not set policy. A pity his superiors at the NSC didn't set him straight as soon as he started pretending he did.

Response by SGT John Peacock made Jul 13 at 2020 2:39 PM

2020-07-13T14:39:05-04:00

Pretty much, being as how this entire thing has become politicized, "truth, right & wrong" all depend on what side of the political isle you stand on, regardless of the actual facts. There will be those that consider him a traitor & others a patriot. Again, based on what side of the political isle you stand. It is also due to the politicization of this, that an objective POV is near impossible, due to whether or not 1 side or the other "likes" what the objective POV is. If they like it, they agree, if they don't, then whoever made it is made out to be a "political whacko". It's a no win situation for any side. The biggest losers in all this are we the service members who get caught in the middle and become political tools for either side during an election year, then get conveniently forgotten when it isn't.

Response by 1SG James R. made Jul 13 at 2020 3:20 PM

2020-07-13T15:20:40-04:00

Many great Soldiers have endured worse for less. When a Soldier sacrifices himself in furtherance of his responsibilities, regardless of what others think, he or she is due the respect of his peers and superiors. He found himself a situation that he knew or should have known would result in personal danger to himself and his career and did what he thought right despite what others wish to hide. Many have found their human faults in similar situations and been dissuaded from honorable actions that he felt were correct. I respect any person who can stand up to their superiors and tell the truth in the face of disgrace. History will paint him in a brighter light than the current dimness that "lyies" over Washington D.C. Truth is always on the side of right and honor. Lying and hiding are the complete opposite of right and honor.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Jul 13 at 2020 7:16 PM

2020-07-13T19:16:43-04:00

Powerful people can be very vindictive and can make life miserable professionally and personally.

Response by LTC Gary Earls made Jul 13 at 2020 8:59 PM

2020-07-13T20:59:36-04:00

I read that he was recycled three times in the Ranger course. I've never heard of anyone getting recycled three times in any Army course. I also read that he would steal food from his Ranger classmates. I watched his time before Congress and thought why would a Lieutenant Colonel testifying before a Congressional panel. Unless he was trying to get a promotion before anyone else. He will end up at CNN. :-)

Response by LCDR Stephen Holmes made Jul 13 at 2020 10:00 PM

2020-07-13T22:00:38-04:00

Great topic! Thank you for posting it. I think they were self-serving, not nation-serving. As far as I am concerned, he intentionally undermined the nation's position with Ukraine, and joined the witch hunt farce staged by Adam Schiff, Nancy Pelosi and Chuck Schumer. LTC A. Vindman should be recognized as a TRAITOR and a COWARD. Glad he's leaving. Don't let the door hit you on the way out. Good luck salvaging your reputation. The fake news stations will love you, Mr. Fake.

Response by CPO Darrell Crone made Jul 13 at 2020 10:19 PM

2020-07-13T22:19:43-04:00

He was suoenied, you follow the law, unless there's an oath I never took.

Response by SSG David Angell made Jul 13 at 2020 11:36 PM

2020-07-13T23:36:29-04:00

He is a disgrace to the uniform. To me, after watching him on the Impeachment trial, I saw a self serving, arrogant, know it all, individual.
After hearing what his superiors had to say about him, I guess I wasn't to far off.

Response by SSG David Angell made Jul 13 at 2020 11:53 PM

2020-07-13T23:53:26-04:00

Disgrace to the uniform

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 14 at 2020 12:33 AM

2020-07-14T00:33:04-04:00

LTC Vindman did what he "thought" was the honorable thing to do. I guess all the folks commenting in this forum would have done "what they thought" as honorable under similar circumstances. None of us were witness to the allegations, so for me, I dont have enough information to judge his actions, given the political circus surrounding the impeachment. Unfortunately, the people who know the truth, were at the NSC and systematically they have resigned, were dismissed, retired, or cordially invited to leave.

He knew the minute he came forward his career was in jeopardy. After the impeachment circus and outcome, he knew his career was over, promotion or not. He did the right thing by retiring instead of being relegated to a "desk-jockey" position staring at the walls of the Pentagon or some remote installation, because no GO out there would be willing to have him as BDE Commander or part of his primary staff, regardless of their political affiliation.

Had he done something wrong, how come the board recommended him for selection? I mean there is a GO as president of the board and several Colonels sitting at the board. Evidently his Evaluation report was not a career killer. With the notoriety he gained during the impeachment, his face and name (along with his brother's) would have been easy to recognize to pass him over during the proceedings. Even as the selection list is sent to the Senate for confirmation, how come the list cleared GEN Milley before it went to the Senate for confirmation?

Again, I am not absolving or condemning the LTC for what he did. All the facts are not out, but for sure, they will come out once the current administration is over, whether is next year or five years from now.

Response by MGySgt Juan Mendez made Jul 14 at 2020 12:22 PM

2020-07-14T12:22:35-04:00

Good riddance, buh bye.... Who wants to bet me a case of beer that his next job will be at CNN or MSNBC.

Response by CSM Charles Hayden made Jul 14 at 2020 11:09 PM

2020-07-14T23:09:25-04:00

I hope the screen door has a strong spring!

Response by LTC Charles Barber made Jul 15 at 2020 10:37 AM

2020-07-15T10:37:15-04:00

Putting politics and bias to the side , It appears some did not listen to the entire testimony. First, his chain of command lied and said he never use the chain of command to inform them of his concerns. Several senior leaders throughout the testimony confirm he did use his chain of command properly. The White House attorney is the only one that mentioned the LTC didn’t follow the chain of command. All of the other SES that define stated he did use the chain of command . Second, Where did he commit treason? He did exactly what we teach our officers to do when unethical acts are being conducted. Contrary to what people believe, all this did was contradict what we train our officers. Apparently something went on because a lot of senior leaders that came to Capitol Hill testified echoing the LTC was saying especially on the phone call.. The same leaders have have many worked in other administrations of the past democrat and Republican. So, are we saying that everybody that went on Capitol Hill to testify against the president is lying to include the lieutenant colonel? I respect this lieutenant colonel he sacrificed his career and did exactly what he was supposed to do and what we teach our service members.

Response by SMSgt John Blaha made Jul 15 at 2020 11:14 AM

2020-07-15T11:14:51-04:00

Let Col Vindman did his sworn duty as an officer and member of the military. Doing ones duty should never be politicized by elected officials regardless of what perceived side they are on. The fact this man felt he needed to resign because of undue influence on his future career potential speaks volumes to the behavior of the current administration. I wish him well and hope that perhaps his service will be rewarded by being appointed to a position of trust in a future administration that values integrity and honesty from its public officials.

Response by SPC Steven Nihipali made Jul 15 at 2020 10:00 PM

2020-07-15T22:00:55-04:00

to speak freely, and since you asked... fuck that guy. what a piece of shit. to drag my uniform into a congressional testimony and define a traitor and treasonist act, the guy is a piece of shit. How the hell is he gonna try to testify about classified phone calls to where his higher-ups never wrote it up as something bigger than it wasn't. Pentagon, NSA, and other intelligence groups went over the records and never said anything, but yet this piece of shit thinks he's god in uniform and claims to hear and do things that deem Trump a bad guy? I mean, fuck outta here man, that guy needs his ass whooped in broad daylight then charged with treason

Response by SMSgt Bob Wilson made Jul 16 at 2020 1:00 AM

2020-07-16T01:00:10-04:00

I wish him well in retirement and look forward to his book [which I'm sure he'll write]. In it LTC Vindman can explain his failure to follow the chain of command as far as reporting discrepancies within his job at the White House. People in that job, in the past, has had a distinguished career [with Al Haig going from LTC to General in a very short time].

Response by SSG Phillip Hoffeld made Jul 16 at 2020 3:09 AM

2020-07-16T03:09:58-04:00

First of all lessons I was taught in Basic was, "Don't cross your boss." That's just bad juju. From what I've seen, I wouldn't want to be under his command. This is the type of commander that would make a mistake and blame those involved instead of owning up to it.

Response by Sgt Leonard Lamb made Jul 16 at 2020 5:38 AM

2020-07-16T05:38:25-04:00

LTC Vindman served his country for a lifetime while The Supreme Liar, Bully and COWard spent a lifetime serving himself. What can you say but "Thank you for your service LTC Vindman and up yours Supreme Liar, Bully & COWard.

Response by CPO Kenneth Zigler made Jul 16 at 2020 8:01 AM

2020-07-16T08:01:29-04:00

Yours is not to reason why, yours is but to do or die......LTC Vindman is out of order;

Response by SSG Shawn Mcfadden made Jul 16 at 2020 10:40 AM

2020-07-16T10:40:23-04:00

LTC Vindman was unjustly persecuted during trump's impeachment inquiry, and after the trial. It is more than clear that trump violated the Impoundment Control Act and was rightfully impeached for it. As for LTC Vindman's role in this fiasco, he gave his testimony, and told the truth as to what happened, and almost IMMEDIATELY, the GOP pounce and discredit him? His testimony was in sync with Ms. Yavonovich, Ms. Hill, and the others who testified before/after him. It would be a completely different story if Vindman had lied, or withheld information, but he did NEITHER OF THESE. LTC Vindman's fate is due to the GOP saving trump despite the fact McConnell said AFTER the trial was over that trump did indeed break the law, and after trump was "acquitted", he sought revenge on those who testified against him.

Response by SGT Thomas Price made Jul 16 at 2020 10:53 AM

2020-07-16T10:53:12-04:00

He needs to suffer a case of lead poisoning. The fact he made it past captain stuns me.

Response by MAJ Ray Esparza made Jul 16 at 2020 10:42 PM

2020-07-16T22:42:26-04:00

I am a retired Army Major, Vidman, Colin, and any other military man can be recalled and court-martialed for blashpehmy on the President of the US! He deserves to be court marialed while still on active duty!

Response by SGT James Hunsinger made Jul 17 at 2020 4:23 AM

2020-07-17T04:23:48-04:00

Personally I think he was in violation of the Hatch Act if I understand it correctly. The impeachment proceedings were a farce and Adam Schiff the head clown of that whole circus. Vindman was simply acting as a willing extension of the Democrat Party. I respect the rank but the man himself I feel was a politically driven, leftist pig that was probably bought and paid for by the DNC before the BS even started.

Also, as a former intelligence soldier that worked for NSA, I feel there were some very questionable aspects of Schiff's "whistleblower" and everything about it. I signed those same forms time and time again and the act never afforded the whistleblower anonymity. Just immunity from retributive action. Then the form was changed of course to allow for said whistleblower to provide basically, unsubstantiated information.

Then in sweeps the LTC with the "smoking gun" testimony that equated to a smoking latrine barrel.

I served under both Bushes and I served under Clinton obviously...I hated the man as POTUS but I would have never DREAMED of doing the BS that I am convinced Vindman did.

I hope karma does a number on him.

Response by PO1 Richard Locke made Jul 17 at 2020 2:06 PM

2020-07-17T14:06:10-04:00

And for no particular reason a guy who wears a civilian suit to work every day shows up in full dress regalia (like Oliver North - Iran Contra)...and that's all I have to say about that...

Response by LTC Pete Moore made Jul 17 at 2020 2:14 PM

2020-07-17T14:14:23-04:00

I think he is lucky that he is getting to retire rather than being prosecuted. His actions were not professional at best and possibly criminal. Don't want to be petty but I will be, there are too many in uniform and retired senior officers publicly promoting their beliefs on politics, culture, the 2nd Amendment, etc.... They all have the right but if you aren't running for office and you are talking about something you have no personal knowledge about just don't do it. Retired and Active Officers have a responsibility to shut the hell up and not enter the political realm unless they are candidates for office. Mr. Vindman does not appear to meet military regulations in his physical appears and his job performance is unsatisfactory as a staff officer. His job was to provide analysis and recommendations not to publicly promote a personal course of action. He was a decision making tool not a commander. Good riddance is my personal opinion!

Response by MSgt Donnie Smith made Jul 18 at 2020 3:41 AM

2020-07-18T03:41:25-04:00

He got what he deserved and was a disappointment.

Response by CW4 William Kessinger made Jul 18 at 2020 9:36 AM

2020-07-18T09:36:44-04:00

I was not real happy to see an active duty officer turn on his Commander in Chief. As military members of US Armed forces we serve the country and not a political office (Dem or Rep). The LTC in question should have kept his concerns within the military chain of command. Any retribution he receives in his OER's is well deserved.

The same goes for the Captain of the Navy Aircraft carrier that allowed his concerns for the health of his command to become a public tool and also publicize the possible degradation in his carriers ability to respond to a military crisis.

Duty, Honor, Country! CNN does not fall within that equation.

Response by SFC Oddie Brown made Jul 18 at 2020 12:46 PM

2020-07-18T12:46:40-04:00

For all of his intelligence and education he wasn't a very smart man.

Response by SPC Kerry Good made Jul 18 at 2020 2:22 PM

2020-07-18T14:22:34-04:00

For his Treasonous acts against POTUS I say firing squads are due.

Response by MSG Tom Yuppa made Jul 18 at 2020 7:21 PM

2020-07-18T19:21:43-04:00

It would be interesting to get some input from officers and NCOs he served with.

Response by MSG Tom Yuppa made Jul 18 at 2020 7:32 PM

2020-07-18T19:32:30-04:00

Either he’s stupid, just dumb or he knows his agenda will help him in the future and he really doesn’t care about his military career. Ukrainian Secretary of Defense, CNN , MSN or something else the Democrats promised him.
Bottom line is he may not end up anywhere because his loyalty is questionable and those who used him for political reasons may be afraid that he could do it to them

Response by 1SG Charles Simpson made Jul 19 at 2020 2:03 AM

2020-07-19T02:03:36-04:00

Vindman was a team player but he was not playing for the US team. His first allegiance was to Vindman, his second allegiance was to Vindman, his third allegiance was to the puppet government in Ukraine that had been set up by Russia. Before you slam me, you should go back and read very carefully Vindman's own words because my comments are coming directly from his own words. I wouldn't call him a foreign agent but if you look at his photos in uniform, you can clearly see that he was never very well trained in how to assemble and wear it. If the things he bragged about are true, I think the President should have stripped him of his rank and drummed him out of service with no allowances or benefits. We, as a nation, must stop pussyfooting around with our national security or we may wake up one day and find that we no longer have our nation. May God bless the United States military forces and protect us from opportunists and politicians.

Response by Sgt H Sarko made Jul 19 at 2020 4:38 AM

2020-07-19T04:38:56-04:00

LTC Vindman has served with Honor and integrity. That is more than can be said about cadet bone spurs.

Response by A1C James Cain made Jul 19 at 2020 9:24 AM

2020-07-19T09:24:05-04:00

I believe he simply told the truth which Trump did not like and was made an example by Trump for others to take warning.

Response by MAJ Raymond W. Levesque made Jul 19 at 2020 12:06 PM

2020-07-19T12:06:01-04:00

He did not try to set policy not break the law. In fact, he was required by law to report potentially illegal activity, which he did. It was the investigating office, I believe the responsible IG for his office, that later called him to testify as to what he heard it saw.

Response by SSG David Blees made Jul 19 at 2020 9:01 PM

2020-07-19T21:01:23-04:00

Should be in Leavenworth.

Response by LTC Andrew Addison made Jul 19 at 2020 9:26 PM

2020-07-19T21:26:34-04:00

How was he selected for COL when he was obviously overweight? The other issues is that he is supposed to be apolitical. My gut feeling is that he crossed the line and should have been removed from his position.

Response by CSM Clifford Fargason made Jul 20 at 2020 7:59 AM

2020-07-20T07:59:26-04:00

I have seen staff officers before that forgot that the staff officer makes recommendations and the commander makes the decision. Based on what I saw and read of him, he believed himself to be walking on water when it came to the Ukraine, and when his advice was not heeded he struck back. That never goes over well.

Response by LCpl Jeff Moore made Jul 20 at 2020 10:06 AM

2020-07-20T10:06:59-04:00

I rather see a officer stand up and report something the suspect is wrong then do nothing when they do see something that is wrong.

I mean the army seems to have a culture of turning the blind eye with all the soilder being murdered on bases and hidden.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 20 at 2020 10:51 AM

2020-07-20T10:51:04-04:00

Buh bye! Having the courage of your convictions is a great thing when you do something about a perceived illegal or immoral act BEFORE it happens you are a hero. When you tattle take after an event because you don’t like the policy you’re just a punk.

Response by SGT Doug Blanchard made Jul 20 at 2020 3:14 PM

2020-07-20T15:14:17-04:00

Imho, this POS should have been brought up on charges under the UCMJ both for disregarding/breaking the CoC and for actions unbecoming an officer. He should have never been allowed to retire as he was, he should have Bern kicked out of the Army on his sorry a** for what he did. He is a disgrace to the uniform he wore, along with his twin ungreatful brother. He was not looking out for this country, send them both back to wherever they immigrated from, after they strip their U.S. citizenship and ban them both from teetering the U.S.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 20 at 2020 3:21 PM

2020-07-20T15:21:26-04:00

An officer's responsibility is to follow the lawful, legal orders of those appointed over him/her. This is especially true of his/her commander-in-chief. Now, we are all told, and trained, that any order illegal, immoral, or unethical can be disobeyed. That is not what blubber-boy did here. His feelings were hurt. Nothing more. That he made it to O-5 is a miracle in and of itself.

Response by SPC Willie Flud made Jul 21 at 2020 10:57 AM

2020-07-21T10:57:10-04:00

He was a honest man who did not lie but, got punished for it, that is injustice at the highest level.

Response by A1C James Cain made Jul 22 at 2020 5:00 PM

2020-07-22T17:00:29-04:00

If you need me to point out Trumps lies then you have not been listening to what he has been saying. https://www.factcheck.org/person/donald-trump/

Donald Trump Archives - FactCheck.org

In a series of virtual tele-rallies, President Donald Trump repeatedly distorted Joe Biden’s position on education, claiming the former vice president wants to “end school choice” and “abolish charter schools.”

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 22 at 2020 10:10 PM

2020-07-22T22:10:59-04:00

I am not sure what his motives were but when he corrected a Congressman who called him Mr Vindman I raised an eyebrow. I don't know him but I know those like him and often they do not share the Army values.

Response by SSG Paul Headlee made Jul 25 at 2020 1:15 AM

2020-07-25T01:15:12-04:00

Complete breakdown of leadership if this guy doesn't get 20 years in Leavenworth. What's his justification?

Response by 1SG Gary Ridge made Jul 26 at 2020 7:20 AM

2020-07-26T07:20:27-04:00

Should have a been Article 32 and let peers decide his fate!

Response by SPC Robert Rodriguez made Jul 27 at 2020 6:00 PM

2020-07-27T18:00:37-04:00

In my opinion, LTC Vindman and his brother are part of the deep state. Only time will tell and time is running out.

Response by PO1 Michael Withrow made Jul 28 at 2020 8:42 AM

2020-07-28T08:42:36-04:00

IF even half of what i've heard is true, he should be facing court marshal. advising a foreign gov't to act against he President. he could and should be considered a Spy.

Response by SPC Brian Stephens made Jul 30 at 2020 11:14 PM

2020-07-30T23:14:35-04:00

I think as soon as President Trump released the transcript of the call the Vindmans were checked and mated as impeachment witnesses. They both need to leave. They needed to be sacked immediately, their commissions in the President's hands.

Response by CW4 Robert Mixon made Aug 2 at 2020 11:54 AM

2020-08-02T11:54:16-04:00

Honor still counts

Response by CPL Tom Walker made Aug 4 at 2020 6:37 PM

2020-08-04T18:37:02-04:00

First of all, I'd say LTC is pretty serious rank! Second, I think Vindman has distinguished himself in every way as the kind of leader we should all want in the military. Trump sullies himself (again) by mounting a vengeful campaign against a true, brave patriot.

Response by SP5 Earl Reeves made Aug 7 at 2020 7:09 PM

2020-08-07T19:09:29-04:00

He did the absolute right thing. His oath is not to a commander or commander in chief, but to the constitution. Those on these threads who argue otherwise are most likely maga and part of this country's problem.

Response by SFC David Reid, M.S, PHR, SHRM-CP, DTM made Aug 8 at 2020 1:23 PM

2020-08-08T13:23:00-04:00

I think LTC Vindmanshould have stayed in based on principle! However, some said, that his continued service wont not be valued!

Response by SFC David Reid, M.S, PHR, SHRM-CP, DTM made Aug 8 at 2020 2:01 PM

2020-08-08T14:01:31-04:00

There's an old saying about fighting City Hall. But I think LTC Vindman had a captive audience. That's why he was ultimately placed on the list for O-6! In addition to getting the attention of media and prospective opportunities!

Response by SPC Willie Flud made Aug 10 at 2020 12:23 PM

2020-08-10T12:23:09-04:00

He was honest and did not deserve the treatment he received from the president, a good man is gone and it is a tragic lost.

Response by CMSgt Donald ONeill made Aug 12 at 2020 1:06 PM

2020-08-12T13:06:32-04:00

Lets first take what his superiors said about him . That he had a problem taking orders, he questioned his commanding officers many times . He was too much into politics which is a no , no for a army officer . He was caught in a lie while testifying on a presidents phone call . All of the above would cause me to non retain a officer I could not trust . And bottom line he was not 0-6 material .

Response by COL Robert Davies made Aug 14 at 2020 8:13 PM

2020-08-14T20:13:50-04:00

Do you mean slug Vindman? Let me see, treason, direlection of duty, disgrace, conduct unbecoming? Should have been shot or court martialed, then shot. Leavenworth would have loved him.

Response by SGT Steve Hines-Saich B.S. M.S. Cybersecurity made Aug 22 at 2020 1:10 PM

2020-08-22T13:10:26-04:00

The Ltc should have remained apolitical. However, are we at all surprised when the President himself can spread his own personal brand of disinformation via social media? I say we shouldn’t be. I think the country needs sound leadership. We have seen leadership lacking in coronavirus response and influencing police reform.

Instead of being device work could be done to unify.

Vindman may be wrong but the President should not get a free pass to say and do whatever. He and politicians on both sides need to find the middle way and what is best for the country.

Response by SPC Byron Skinner made Aug 22 at 2020 4:08 PM

2020-08-22T16:08:21-04:00

Sp4 Byron Skinner. It seem that the same opinion is the consensus that LTC. Vindman should have been Drummed out of the military and had to forfeit all future Retirement Benefits. LTC Vindman was caught between an oath he you enlisted which is rather clear as day on the relationship between and the Commander and Chief and the legal requirement of the information Congress wanted to hear, he was more the a witness he was a recipient of much of the information. This event is far from over, I’m sure LTC Vindman had an agent before he left the Army. A book, advisor for a movie in the trump years and there are a lot of big buck jobs out there from the “Any One But Trump” folks. In short the oath comes before the law.

Response by Sgt Michael Sechrist made Aug 23 at 2020 1:13 AM

2020-08-23T01:13:59-04:00

I think he should face charges of treason.

Response by MSG Chuck Pewsey made Aug 23 at 2020 2:36 AM

2020-08-23T02:36:42-04:00

It took a lot of guts to stand up for what he thought was right. Our oath is to the constitution, not to the President.

Response by CSM Jim Corrin made Aug 23 at 2020 12:08 PM

2020-08-23T12:08:51-04:00

Vindman is a legend in his own mind. In my opinion, he has grossly overestimated his own importance and got his fourth point of contact on his shoulders when the "Boss" didn't recognize that.

Response by SSG Brian Carpenter made Aug 23 at 2020 12:27 PM

2020-08-23T12:27:14-04:00

I read Vidman as a glory seeking traitor. Just because he's so arrogant and the way he addressed elected officials, which means the people's representatives, as if he was better than them. Especially when he asked to be addressed by his rank.

Response by LTC Terrance Stanton made Aug 23 at 2020 3:13 PM

2020-08-23T15:13:25-04:00

I believe LTC Vindman was accepted at the War College. He gave up his advancement and entire career for the good of the country, exposing Trump, an evil, pathologic, child betraying our country, a threat to national security, and Russian asset, knowingly or stupidly, a mass murderer of thousands of covid-19 victims. I hope LTC Vindman has a high, well-paid position on the NSC or other intelligence agency!!

Response by Sgt Dale Wood made Aug 23 at 2020 4:45 PM

2020-08-23T16:45:19-04:00

With the lies and made up stories he submitted and testified to. He should have been demoted and given a bad conduct discharge. The guy is a disgrace to the uniform

Response by Sgt Frank Staples made Aug 23 at 2020 5:01 PM

2020-08-23T17:01:11-04:00

My response as a civvy now is that he screwed the pooch. And justifiably got what he deserved while, if you think about it, even better than deserved because he gets to retire on our dime after proving that he couldn't be trusted up the chain of command.

Response by SSG Dave Johnston made Aug 23 at 2020 6:32 PM

2020-08-23T18:32:50-04:00

Now that he's 'Retired' do ya think he'll take that "Minister of Defense" position he was offered?

https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/vindman-reveals-that-he-had-been-offered-a-position-as-defense-minister-of-ukraine
https://www.foxnews.com/politics/vindman-testifies-he-was-asked-to-be-ukraine-defense-minister

That would put him in a position where he couldn't be extradited for Article 32 investigation or??? ... and his new employer gets to pay for the bodyguards...

vindman-reveals-that-he-had-been-offered-a-position-as-defense-minister-of-ukraine

Response by Capt Edward Egan made Aug 24 at 2020 1:31 AM

2020-08-24T01:31:24-04:00

I thought that Mister Potato Head (oh, I'm sorry - LtCol Potato Head) was a vain, smug, supercilious, arrogant REMF who felt that his feelings and opinions were more valid than the President's, and that since the President was therefore wrong he must be a traitor. Vindman was bought and paid for by the Democommies.

Response by SMSgt John Lemon made Aug 24 at 2020 2:02 AM

2020-08-24T02:02:19-04:00

I thought his actions were reprehensible. He should have been court martialed. No promotion, no retirement packet nothing. He betrayed his commander in chief with lies meant to hurt him and add to the false narrative purported by the democrat coup committee.

Response by SPC Michael Duricko, Ph.D made Aug 24 at 2020 10:36 AM

2020-08-24T10:36:50-04:00

Disrespectful, non-trustworthy and a discredit to the Chain of Command.

Response by COL Charles Cook made Aug 25 at 2020 9:56 AM

2020-08-25T09:56:28-04:00

This officer was an embarassment to the Army.

Response by CPO Scott Langhoff made Aug 25 at 2020 10:16 AM

2020-08-25T10:16:21-04:00

Treason is a Capital Crime, punishable by Death.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 25 at 2020 10:24 AM

2020-08-25T10:24:35-04:00

LTC Vindman is a true patriot. As a commissioned officer, his oath is to the Constitution. His sole duty is to defend the Constitution against all enemies, foreign and domestic. There is nothing in the oath about allegiance or fealty to any individual. Officers are also obligated to ignore and defy illegal orders. Ignorance of the Constitution is widespread in all corners of the United States, but for citizens who volunteered to serve in uniform to not understand the Constitution and the UCMJ, or what the oath of office states, is difficult to reconcile.

Response by Lt Col Bill Fletcher made Aug 25 at 2020 11:11 AM

2020-08-25T11:11:16-04:00

He violated several basic concepts by his actions, not the least of which was openly complaining his “advice” was ignored. He was a Junior Staff Officer whose opinion while not valueless certainly had less
Importance than those several lay grades above him. Frankly, he is lucky he was allowed to retire at the grade he had rather than the last one he served with honor.

Response by 1LT Howard Foss made Aug 25 at 2020 2:25 PM

2020-08-25T14:25:46-04:00

the military does not get involved in politics. period!
we serve one nation, one people, in the best interests of America.
msnbc? really?

Response by SSG William Bruno made Aug 25 at 2020 5:00 PM

2020-08-25T17:00:37-04:00

He did his job and he didn't deserve to be so publicly screwed for it. Thank you, LTC Vindman. I hope you get to enjoy your retirement.

Response by SSG William Bruno made Aug 25 at 2020 5:02 PM

2020-08-25T17:02:14-04:00

What are your thoughts, Sergeant Major?

Response by SFC David Reid, M.S, PHR, SHRM-CP, DTM made Aug 25 at 2020 7:22 PM

2020-08-25T19:22:47-04:00

It was remored that some senior leaders discouraged him from sticking around. Saying, that he would not progress any further! I was glad to see him get placed on the list for O-6! But I guess he felt that you cant d city hall! But things did turn out good in getting employment opportunities!

Response by AB Mike Bonner made Aug 25 at 2020 8:41 PM

2020-08-25T20:41:53-04:00

He achieved his rank by being Politically Correct, a YES man and a kiss ass. He has shown he knows less than an enlisted PVT.

Response by Sgt William Toliver made Aug 25 at 2020 9:03 PM

2020-08-25T21:03:58-04:00

i feel a president that skipped out of the military because of supposed bone spurs should leave the military alone even when he stated he knew more about the military than the generals that was enough for me this president tries to bully everyone remember the military is God and country not some crazy ass president

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2020 1:21 AM

2020-08-26T01:21:18-04:00

He acted in the best traditions of the army. He obeyed a lawfully issued subpoena and told the truth as he was required to do.

LTC Vindeman is a hero. Too bad the senate GOP is filled with cowards unwilling to do the right thing and place country above party.

Response by 1SG Patrick Sims made Aug 26 at 2020 4:22 AM

2020-08-26T04:22:37-04:00

You don't have to like who The People elect as President. However, He is the Commander-in-Chief and your boss. Ragging on him in public is not very bright. Perhaps it was time for LTC Vindman to move on to another occupation.

Response by 1SG Brian Holt made Aug 26 at 2020 8:53 AM

2020-08-26T08:53:55-04:00

The Uniform Code of Military Justice prohibits military personnel from using “contemptuous speech” against the President and other leaders, from engaging in “conduct prejudicial to good order and discipline in the Armed Forces,” and from “conduct unbecoming an officer and a gentleman. Therefore, in my expert opinion, Vindman is a disgrace to the uniform, a liar, and a partisan swamp creature.

Response by SFC Eugene Helstrom made Aug 26 at 2020 1:05 PM

2020-08-26T13:05:26-04:00

In my personal opinion LTC Vindman has shown his colors. In my 27 years, I have never seen such blatant disrespect from an Army Officer. All of us have political positions and we are free to discuss them when and wherever we wish. But what we should never do is do it in a way that cameras can record and show the world our "true" feelings for our current superiors. It is exactly the same as going to a political campaign in uniform. I found his behavior in the congressional hearing to be hostile, flippant and completely unbecoming of any officer I have had the privilege to serve under. If it were up to me I would release him with an other than honorable discharge so as to show him he is not and never will be respected by any true Soldier! He is a disservice to himself, his unit and the United States Army!

Response by SSG Thomas Barry made Aug 26 at 2020 6:45 PM

2020-08-26T18:45:59-04:00

he was a never Trumper and he let his hate overload his mouth. President Trump for better or worse is the CIC and if you don't agree with him you have the option of grin and bear it , put in for transfer or retire. But you don't have the option of publicly voicing YOUR opinion because opinions are like elbows.

Response by LTC David Howard made Aug 27 at 2020 8:47 AM

2020-08-27T08:47:02-04:00

It appears to me that he became infatuated with his own importance, placing his opinions above that of his Commander in Chief. His active and aggressive actions in support of the impeachment of the President, for presidential behavior that he himself admits was not illegal, brought dishonor and disgrace to the uniform. He also seems to have been motivated by a dual loyalty where he viewed the welfare of his former home, Ukraine, above that to the nation to which he now belonged. Maybe his case should be studied for guidance on how we can avoid such conflicts of interest in the future with naturalized citizens.

Response by CSM Robert J. "Bob" Parr, RD made Aug 27 at 2020 9:54 AM

2020-08-27T09:54:52-04:00

He acted without honor.

Response by COL Roxanne Arndt made Aug 27 at 2020 10:57 AM

2020-08-27T10:57:21-04:00

I have to admit that I was surprised he was called to testify. As a military member I always felt it was inappropriate to get involved in politics and speak out about the president. I wondered if he received guidance from his superiors before he started speaking. As I was listening to him I thought to myself “ well there goes his career!”

Response by SFC Benjamin Varlese made Aug 27 at 2020 12:25 PM

2020-08-27T12:25:40-04:00

Given the amount of animus and vitriolic statements I have seen on other social media sites regarding Vindman, I hesitate to say something here given the direction this thread already seems to have taken. I have seen a lot of people claim he was acting responsibly and doing "the harder right" and similar institutionalized catch phrases my fellow SNCOs and the Officer Corps (especially field grades) like to throw around but let's look at some simple facts.
Vindman served on the NSC as an advisor (key word) at the pleasure of the President, meaning he would provide advice (key word) on policy and would continue to do so at the POTUS's discretion. It was not up to Vindman to make judgements of that caliber and went way outside his lane by reporting anything to outside entities without going to his CoC first; that's common military knowledge. It was not Vindman's call to report policy disagreements he had with the President, and was not disobeying unlawful orders contrary to a befuddling popular opinion. These are not subjective to interpretation and are pretty clear under established standards and doctrine, but those who would wish to publicize this blatant insubordination and overreach have capitalized on such ignorance and the bloviation of institutionalized careerist in the DoD.
There is a lot of subjective statements regarding Vindman's character that bear mentioning. He was in my brigade when we both deployed to Iraq and being in the position I was, had many opportunities to interact with members of his battalion who knew him. Not many had good things to say about him and these sentiments were parroted later in my career as a government civilian when discussing Vindman. Other trusted sources also made some serious allegations about his conduct at Ranger School (lazy chow thief) which based on other information, seemed fitting of his character as I knew it. Other allegations have also been leveled about his loyalty, integrity, and care for his subordinates. The fact he has little command time and a ton as a staff officer should also be an indicator of his character and abilities as an officer; he may be good at paperwork and policy but not a leader of soldiers. It has also been hypothesized that he was the one who leaked information to the "whistleblower", Eric Ciarmamella, with whom he would have had contact with previously at the NSC; pure speculation but there are too many coincidences to ignore fully.
I know I have written a lot here but it is important to clarify some key distinctions. Regardless of the subjective allegations of his character in the past, he dishonored himself and the US Army when he stepped out of his lane over a policy disagreement and inserted himself into D.C. kabuki theater. He and his brother should slip quietly into retirement like the general officers before him who were relived over policy disagreements, and just be glad things did not get significantly worse for them both thanks to disingenuous assertions, intellectual dishonesty, and partisan politics.

Response by Sgt Patrick Hayes made Aug 28 at 2020 3:14 PM

2020-08-28T15:14:44-04:00

Vindman is/was an opportunist. He made a mockery of the oath he took as a U.S. serviceman and more especially as an officer. He showed no respect for the uniform he wore, much less for himself. Vindman, you belong in the Ukraine.

Response by CPT Tío Rusty made Aug 28 at 2020 8:44 PM

2020-08-28T20:44:12-04:00

Due to his contradiction on the stand I have no respect for him and wish he would be prosecuted, if that is possible. He certainly is not loyal to his commander in chief.

Response by CPT Tío Rusty made Aug 28 at 2020 8:45 PM

2020-08-28T20:45:27-04:00

He is a man for whom I do not have any respect after contradicting himself on the stand. I wish he could be punished for this and not be considered a hero.

Response by MAJ John Douglas made Aug 29 at 2020 7:50 AM

2020-08-29T07:50:40-04:00

Goodbye and good riddance. Watch for Biden and his Bolsheviks to bring Vindman back as a full Colonel if they win the election. I would bet my mortgage on it.

Response by SFC Robert Walton made Aug 29 at 2020 8:19 AM

2020-08-29T08:19:57-04:00

May he rest in Peace.

Response by SGT Lenise Hamilton made Aug 29 at 2020 11:10 AM

2020-08-29T11:10:02-04:00

Pardon me all,
I'm still baffled as to how we as a people let one "Clown-in-Chief" speak for America, especially when it comes to representing "Truth". How did we get this far down in the black-hole, how! In my opinion I'll tell you why, being military oriented to this day, I still carry the "On the spot correction school of thought". Although LTC Vindman may have hit some bumps along the road, I still give him credit for coming forward even if he was given a push to do so. It's unfortunate that he retired not because he actually wanted to but because he was forced to do so. I think we as a people must move forward with the thought of do we want our future generation to emulate the ridiculous behavior of the past. We must leave the legacy of always speak "Truth To Power" at all cost and continue to do on the spot corrections, which in terms I think will dismantle every and all foolishness to any power.

Response by CPL Christopher Trafnik made Sep 18 at 2020 8:06 AM

2020-09-18T08:06:26-04:00

I think Vindman is a scumbag for going against The Commander in Chief by lying

Response by COL Mo Fenner made Sep 20 at 2020 12:46 PM

2020-09-20T12:46:24-04:00

He is a disgrace to our uniform. I believe that he was only allowed to retire to minimize his public exposure.

Response by Sgt James Sullivan made Sep 20 at 2020 5:59 PM

2020-09-20T17:59:28-04:00

What about defending the constitution against all enemies foreign and domestic and only following legal orders? I seem to recall that from my oath of enlistment !

Response by SSgt Robert Van Buhler III made Sep 20 at 2020 7:11 PM

2020-09-20T19:11:41-04:00

When I was in, with TS/SSI cleared info, we would not have let him retire and run his mouth. He is the "whistle blower" with half truths and opinions. Part of the Obama taint on the DOD and Intel Community. I do not wish him ill, but I do not wish him well.

Response by PO3 John Jeter made Sep 20 at 2020 8:38 PM

2020-09-20T20:38:13-04:00

Not as a retired or active, but a former service member perhaps I might be allowed my $.02 worth. Vindman is an officer version of Bergdahl. He put his personal opinion ahead of established protocol in resolving questions or complaints. I have no confidence in his command abilities. But I’m satisfied to let him go.

Response by SPC John Tacetta made Sep 20 at 2020 9:04 PM

2020-09-20T21:04:17-04:00

Nothing to see here. Move along. Move along.

Response by SGT Joseph Gunderson made Sep 20 at 2020 9:15 PM

2020-09-20T21:15:31-04:00

I think he's a piece of garbage who realized that his career had stalled. He needed to make a name for himself so he could have a chance of walking into some contributor job with a network, and he did just that.

Response by CPT Douglas Gilbertson made Sep 20 at 2020 11:54 PM

2020-09-20T23:54:54-04:00

Enjoy retirement. No promotion, MSM, or the like. It was not his job to question policy. You can and should challenge violations of the UCMJ, Geneva Convention/Code of War, and general human ethics. He did not serve his country or his CINC; rather, he served his self interest and that of politicians and PACs. Not cool. Dr. Lee Gilbertson (NCO and Officer, Infantry and SIGINT)

Response by SR Jack Miles made Sep 21 at 2020 1:06 PM

2020-09-21T13:06:49-04:00

Should have faced General Court Martial.
Don't give a damn about his rank, or faithful service. He BLATANTLY went outside of Chain of Command, and attacked the Commander in Chief.
That's blatantly political, and Military personnel know to keep politics out of their jobs. At least, THAT'S how it was when I served. We may disagree with our C in C, but the President is STILL the VERY TOP BRASS in the Chain of Command.

Response by SFC John Trujillo made Sep 21 at 2020 2:45 PM

2020-09-21T14:45:43-04:00

Vindman is a weasely little traitor that perjured himself on the stand. He along with every member of Congress that participated in this Goat F*&& should be held accountable including charges of Fraud, Waste, and Abuse violations. Everyone knew that President Trump was waiting for the IMF to finish their investigation before releasing more taxpayers' money to be embezzled by the likes of Biden, Pelosi, Romney, Kerry, and all their little minions.

Response by MAJ Bill Kirkland made Sep 21 at 2020 4:08 PM

2020-09-21T16:08:22-04:00

Not knowing what Infantry experience he had, I watched and wondered if this officer was telling the whole truth or was he a never-Trumper. Now I know. For an officer, and I was one 40 plus years ago, to be awarded a CIB and Bronze Star is not unusual. Purple Hearts for some "tee-tee" wounds count, but only career box checkers insisted on IRHA on the Field Medical tag in Viet Nam. Even if they stumbled onto a tent stake on the way to the bunker during an incoming motar/rocket attack. I know as we had a few Majors try that...one bold Captain told one to come back when we had a double-amputee who would get a Purple Heart.

Response by MSgt Christian Zitzow made Sep 21 at 2020 6:43 PM

2020-09-21T18:43:43-04:00

Traitors come to mind! They should be prosecuted under the UCMJ and if they are found guilty a quick execution is in order.

Response by SFC Gerald Schulz made Sep 21 at 2020 6:51 PM

2020-09-21T18:51:27-04:00

He's a weasel

Response by LTC Scott Sossaman made Sep 21 at 2020 7:25 PM

2020-09-21T19:25:29-04:00

I have commented on this before so I'll keep it brief. He and his brother were Foreign Area Officers (FAOs), who by their very nature are more political than say other officers. His basic branch was Infantry and so he did a tour in Iraq in some capacity as an Infantry Officer, got wounded by an IED and received a CIB, Purple Heart, and DMSM all in one fell swoop. During my tours in Iraq, Afghanistan, Africa, etc I saw these guys (FAOs) punch their ticket and go back to hanging out in Embassies, wearing Blues and going to parties while the rest of us were doing tour after tour in these shitholes. The guy was a tool of his own making and got what he deserved.

Response by A1C Tracy Blackburn made Sep 21 at 2020 8:59 PM

2020-09-21T20:59:24-04:00

Don't know why that double posted.

Response by A1C Tracy Blackburn made Sep 21 at 2020 8:59 PM

2020-09-21T20:59:40-04:00

POS!

Response by PO1 Don Rowan made Sep 22 at 2020 6:43 AM

2020-09-22T06:43:39-04:00

Treason and sedition.

Response by CW3 Kevin Storm made Sep 22 at 2020 12:07 PM

2020-09-22T12:07:02-04:00

The guy got the real screw over was his brother. He suffers from guilty by association and did not need to escorted off IMHO.

Response by SPC Michael Duricko, Ph.D made Sep 22 at 2020 1:40 PM

2020-09-22T13:40:39-04:00

Heard it through the grapevine that Vindman was the real whistle-blower in the Trump impeachment trial but he used a patsy to disseminate his vicious lies.

Response by SSgt Robert Townsend made Sep 22 at 2020 5:22 PM

2020-09-22T17:22:38-04:00

LTC Vindman should be brought up on charges. I am not a student of the UCMJ but, working to undermine the Commander in Chief should be cause for a charge of sedition. A person should not be allowed to hide behind the vail of whistle blower when your own actions in this case are felonious.

Response by Maj Bill Smith, Ph.D. made Sep 22 at 2020 6:12 PM

2020-09-22T18:12:10-04:00

In my 22 years active and then my follow on years as a professor teaching active duty & retired military, I may have met or worked with a few who were aka assholes and some may have had the same sense of me. Fortunately, I never met someone who was sleazy. From what I have read, it appears Vidman acted Sleazy for purposes which are still unclear.

Response by LCpl Bill Benton made Sep 22 at 2020 9:20 PM

2020-09-22T21:20:05-04:00

Leave him retired. He stirred up enough shit, he needs to be put in the circular file.

Response by PO1 James White made Sep 23 at 2020 12:21 AM

2020-09-23T00:21:53-04:00

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 23 at 2020 5:54 AM

2020-09-23T05:54:56-04:00

Traitor. Hanging or gitmo life sentence, solitary/isolation. F this guy.

Response by PO2 William Vasil made Sep 23 at 2020 9:01 AM

2020-09-23T09:01:25-04:00

Dump the tRump

Response by LCpl Charles Stacker made Sep 23 at 2020 10:49 AM

2020-09-23T10:49:21-04:00

A true Patriot with integrity and a sense of duty . History will show he did the right thing at the right time . A better question is why did they take it out on his brother because of LTC Vindman's congressional testimony obviously somebody got their feelings hurt , the truth has a way of doing that

Response by 1SG Dave Faust made Sep 23 at 2020 11:25 AM

2020-09-23T11:25:46-04:00

traitor!

Response by 1SG Dave Faust made Sep 23 at 2020 11:26 AM

2020-09-23T11:26:04-04:00

Traitor!

Response by SP5 Norman Binder made Sep 23 at 2020 2:39 PM

2020-09-23T14:39:19-04:00

How convenient some chose to overlook the fact his brother was also discharged...so much for unbecoming.

Response by SPC Steven Depuy made Sep 23 at 2020 3:46 PM

2020-09-23T15:46:10-04:00

When you get involved in politics, coming out on the wrong side can have bad career effects. Not a huge fan of POTUS, even less of a fan of the Russian Collusion crap and the Impeachment circus. My useless opinion has been given.

Response by GySgt Thomas Vick made Sep 24 at 2020 8:53 AM

2020-09-24T08:53:32-04:00

I personally thought that he was an embarrassment to himself, the Army, and the National Security Council.

Response by MAJ Dean Thompson made Sep 25 at 2020 7:32 PM

2020-09-25T19:32:37-04:00

Proved himself to b just another self centered enemy of America!

Response by 1LT Richard White made Sep 25 at 2020 9:52 PM

2020-09-25T21:52:39-04:00

LTC Vindman is a patriotic officer and American hero for following his oath to the Constitution under the most difficult of circumstances. He deserved more support from the U.S. Army Chief of Staff, the Secretary of the Army, and the Secretary of Defense than he received. The chain of command failed him as he responded to a Congressional subpoena.

Response by SGT Juan Robledo made Sep 25 at 2020 10:24 PM

2020-09-25T22:24:51-04:00

Benedict Arnold, Traitor, LowLife, come to mind, if this LTC was so unhappy with his position, why didn't he put in for a transfer, or a new assignment, why try to throw the President under the bus, I'm glad he's no longer in the Army, good riddance, I wonder what other secrets his discussed or sold for that matter

Response by CW4 Tony Trovato made Sep 26 at 2020 12:04 PM

2020-09-26T12:04:36-04:00

Just a. Dumb ass democrat with delusion of power

Response by MAJ Keith FitzPatrick, CPIM, CSCP made Sep 26 at 2020 4:20 PM

2020-09-26T16:20:37-04:00

LTC Vindman was punished for doing his duty. He testified under oath so I believe he told the truth. The way he was treated by the Trump administration runs counter to Army (US Military) values.

Response by MAJ Brian Miller made Sep 26 at 2020 11:59 PM

2020-09-26T23:59:19-04:00

When you go outside the CoC, especially when it involves the Commander in Chief, you end your career. It doesn't matter if his intentions were good or bad, he should have contacted his CoC first before he took any action. Also, it seems he had other motivations for doing what he did, he showed that during his testimony when he contradicted himself several times. In my opinion he got off easy and at a minimum should have received a GOMOR from the first GO in his CoC. In reality he should face UCMJ actions.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 27 at 2020 1:55 AM

2020-09-27T01:55:51-04:00

Disgrace to the military! I am pretty sure he was the whistleblower. Him and Adam Schiff best buds trying to take down a sitting US president.... Treason for sure!

Response by Sgt Dane Jones made Sep 27 at 2020 11:37 AM

2020-09-27T11:37:32-04:00

Vindman was a scapegoat. Trump is vindictive and retaliates against any who criticize him. Vindman should be optimistic that going forward in retirement, he can start over with a new career.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 27 at 2020 1:29 PM

2020-09-27T13:29:40-04:00

CSM Stanek, you're probably to young to remember (Marine) Lt. Col. Oliver North. Please Google his name & his story.

Response by CPO Scott Langhoff made Sep 27 at 2020 2:14 PM

2020-09-27T14:14:36-04:00

He and his Brother will both be the subject of a Military Tribunal, along with numerous others, soon...

Response by SGM Edward Sullivan made Sep 27 at 2020 6:34 PM

2020-09-27T18:34:04-04:00

I am very surprised that he was allowed to even submit for retirement, I believe a Chapter 10 would have been the correct way to go. For those who are not familiar with what a Chap 10 is...it is RESIGNATION IN LIEU OF COURTS MARSHAL........no benefits, nothing. Would have loved for him to have fought a Courts Marshal and spent some time in Leavenworth!!!!!

Response by SPC Robin Rodriguez made Sep 27 at 2020 8:43 PM

2020-09-27T20:43:59-04:00

I think he should face a court martial and stripped of his rank.

Response by SFC Donald Shilo made Sep 27 at 2020 9:30 PM

2020-09-27T21:30:19-04:00

Goodbye! What a excellent soldier does is resign, ask for reassignment, or follow the chain of command. I and other soldiers (enlisted, warrant, and commissioned who have my respect throughout my career have always done it this way. Vindman did not. Vindman acted like a commissar or political officer I believe forming alliance’s with others for either self promotion or misguided dual alliances of a political nature, forgetting his oath and responsibilities as a soldier to the United States for the sake of politics.

Response by CPT Wayne Price made Sep 27 at 2020 11:43 PM

2020-09-27T23:43:20-04:00

I believe he did the right thing based on his oath to uphold the Constitution.

Response by TSgt David Olson made Sep 28 at 2020 7:43 PM

2020-09-28T19:43:17-04:00

I realize that the military has changed since my time. When I was a young corporal in Vietnam the US was getting ready for the presidential election of 1964. This pitted Senator Barry Goldwater (R-AZ) against the incumbent President Lyndon Johnson (D). I remember having maybe two discussions on the elections. Most everyone, officers and enlisted, seemed to favor Senator Goldwater because of his hawkish stand. All the mail-in election ballots, for the advisors, were received a week or so after the election was over, which included mine. I don't recall ever seeing or hearing any officer act the way that L. Col. Vindman did in his position. A political whistleblower in uniform. As a soldier, he should be bound by regulations similar to the Hatch Act which forbids Federal employees doing anything political except to vote. He is a disgrace to this uniform, his oath and he leaves many in the military wondering. My first thought when I heard, read about his involvement, criticizing his commander-in-chief was, had he been promised a job by the political opposition after the election? In my personal opinion, he should be court-martialed for conduct unbecoming.

Response by WO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 28 at 2020 11:54 PM

2020-09-28T23:54:40-04:00

He did the right thing, and got screwed for it. I hope he gets a decent book deal.

Response by WO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 29 at 2020 12:05 AM

2020-09-29T00:05:32-04:00

He did the right thing and his Commander in Chief lambasted and ridiculed him. He was treated shamefully, by an incredibly corrupt and morally bankrupt Administration. I hope the Colonel at least gets a decent book deal.

Response by MSG Harvey Kane made Oct 5 at 2020 6:06 PM

2020-10-05T18:06:56-04:00

It takes courage to call out the President. He served his pledge to the US Constitution!

Response by PO2 Lawrence Janiec made Oct 6 at 2020 11:10 AM

2020-10-06T11:10:12-04:00

Please note, I don't know the exact details of everything involved, so my comment is meant as sort of a funny aside based on the headlines and reading the original post (and what little I know of the situation)

My wife and I just finished watching Skyfall earlier today, and Judi Dench's M was informed that no, she wasn't being fired, she will be announcing her retirement in 60 days (in a scene near the start of the film). So I had to explain to my wife that more or less yes, she was being fired, but they were doing it in a nice way so that she could get retirement and all the other benefits of a long time in government service. "We're not firing you, you are simply giving your 60 days notice that you are done working." So the fact that only a few hours ago did we watch this and then saw this headline meant I should throw in my $.02.

As far as actual thoughts on the situation based on my limited knowledge of it, I know that POTUS has been firing anyone who doesn't agree with him. Everyone who works in government under him has a very difficult choice to make in that they can either play it safe and keep their job/career, or they can do the right thing. I have stuck to my personal integrity in many situations (both on active and before/after) and in some cases made my life worse. I have also avoided conflict at times and did what I thought might be "safe" (at the time) only to realize many years later that I had made some serious mistakes and have spent a lot of time after the fact trying to set things straight.

Most of this mentality comes from being bullied. It was always forced on me that it's a bad thing to be "A Rat" and if I ratted on someone, then they would make my life worse. Most of the time, this is just how bullies keep bullying people and are never stopped. But later in life I realized that I was protecting people that didn't deserve to be protected.

Response by LtCol Dennis Ivan made Oct 10 at 2020 8:37 PM

2020-10-10T20:37:59-04:00

The very fact he was given the rank of LTC puts into question the Army promotion process. I saw nothing in him I would classify as a competent officer. What I saw was someone who should have been pushed out as a Maj or Capt

Response by CPO Joseph Malay made Oct 11 at 2020 1:57 PM

2020-10-11T13:57:46-04:00

Being that close to Col and turning it down is not something you see every day ......... usually there is a damned good reason ..... Like that all you already have is in danger of being taken away ...... I have a feeling that if he accepted the bird the next feel year would not have been pleasant ........

Response by SFC David Reid, M.S, PHR, SHRM-CP, DTM made Oct 11 at 2020 4:30 PM

2020-10-11T16:30:22-04:00

He did the right thing on all accounts!

Response by SMSgt David A Asbury made Oct 11 at 2020 5:49 PM

2020-10-11T17:49:52-04:00

Maybe he is accepting the job to be the Commander of the Ukraine Military. He showed me he was not an Officer I could respect or work for. Maybe his brother could be his deputy.

Response by LTC Joe Anderson made Oct 12 at 2020 2:24 PM

2020-10-12T14:24:17-04:00

I had to post this ignorance for ALL to see along with my response. Beware if you defend or debate this fool.

From MSgt Gilbert Jones: LtC Anderson, come Nov 3d we will see who supports trump. If you think trump cares anything about the military and those in it, you are smoking the wrong pipe. What way of life is trump preserving for the military? Are y another racist like he is?

MSgt Gilbert Jones - You are INGNORANT!!!!! Accusing me of racism. Show proof Trump doesn't support the military. Right now your just regurgitating inarticulate letters and words. It seems when you can't post facts. think critically, or support your stand you accuse the person you're debating of being Racist??

I'm Puerto Rican (Born Rivera Adopted Anderson), I have a Mexican son, and African American son (In my picture with me). THINK BEFORE YOU POST!!!!! It's bad enough you can't look up facts, post supporting arguments, write or spell. But now you claim, I hate my self and my children? How did you achieve the rank of MSgt? I question your integrity and intelligence!!!!!!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 12 at 2020 4:43 PM

2020-10-12T16:43:51-04:00

He’s a hero doing his duty.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 26 at 2020 12:41 AM

2020-10-26T00:41:27-04:00

Despite his bragging tat he was offered the job of defense minister of the Ukraine, LTC’s do not make foreign policy. His boss is the commander in chief; something he should have learned at West Point. I think he would have made COL, but he chose to resign because he would not have stayed at the NSC. The Army would have assigned him somewhere.

Good riddance! I am sure once he writes his memoirs, CNN will hire him

Response by SGT Jeff Everhart made Oct 31 at 2020 11:38 AM

2020-10-31T11:38:03-04:00

He should have been court martialed as far as I'm concerned. We elect Presidents and as such they are the Commander in Chief of the military. Anyone who cannot follow the orders of the President should resign their commission, or find other work outside the military.

Response by SSG Ivan J. Beaulieu, MBA made Nov 1 at 2020 9:58 PM

2020-11-01T21:58:13-05:00

LTC Vindman served with Honor and Integrity. We must remember that our loyalty to America, its citizens and the Constitution takes prescience over the President and his political agenda, and that LTC Vindman had a lawful obligation to report any wrong doings of anyone whether they be an elected politician. government employee, a civilian and or member of the military. People can make judgements and assumptions based on what they believe may be the facts, or motive, but without having been in LTC Vindman shoes, and being privy to the actual facts, they are only guessing at best. Long story short, "IF" LTC Vindman did anything wrong, he would have been punished. And how vindictive Trump is, he would have made sure of this... Wishing LTC Vindman the best of success in his retirement.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 1 at 2020 10:42 PM

2020-11-01T22:42:30-05:00

Soy Boy tried to take down a sitting president, and did so by releasing confidential information second-hand. In fact, the only reason he's not being held for trial is that the leaks he initiated were lies. They didn't expect Trump to declassify and release the call.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 2 at 2020 1:12 AM

2020-11-02T01:12:48-05:00

I guess if I could go the press and express my disdain, disagreements, grievances with the policies and activities of my BN CO, things would be different how?

I liken an O-5 going to the press to express his opinions of the CIC to an O-2 going to the press and doing the same to an O-5.

Shows absurdly irrational behavior.

I seem to remember a certain O-5 Terry Lakin questioning the legitimacy of orders from a former CIC and got phckn court martialed.

How's this different again?

Response by SPC Nils Hammer made Nov 2 at 2020 6:31 AM

2020-11-02T06:31:20-05:00

He did his job, he knew he was in for a crapstorm, sounds army to me. I was a cold war spook, met the spetznaz on the border face to face alone and unarmed. When ever someone says there is a problem with foreign agents and you wonder whether it is the soviets or some other triviial country, it's the soviets. When they started the anti-US thing in the 1930s agents were specifically ordered to concentrate on unlikely targets, the right wing. Red state folks are accusing non-reds now because smart folks have been warning us about the reds since the 1950's Manchurian Candidate movie. The reds are pretty late to that game.

Response by SSgt Clare May made Nov 2 at 2020 11:30 AM

2020-11-02T11:30:21-05:00

IMHO, He disgraced his branch of service. I heard his testimony and shook my head as he spoke. Whatever honor he earned, got lost in his very first utterances of "I thought, I felt, but I cannot positively confirm" aka thought police style of comments. I've felt uncomfortable during certain events, but I never exposed my uncomfortableness until I had positive proof that exposed whatever issue was at hand. There is a time and a place for things to be exposed, this man did not understand that principal and turned his statement into political vindictiveness'. You asked. You now have my opinion CSM Bob Stanek

Response by Lt Col Larry Day made Nov 2 at 2020 12:58 PM

2020-11-02T12:58:46-05:00

I think he is more a political animal than a patriot. He should have retired then stated his complaint. He violated chain of command and was rightly fired.

Response by CSM David Porterfield made Nov 2 at 2020 4:15 PM

2020-11-02T16:15:37-05:00

He got too caught up in politics vs doing his job and tried to be a political activist. No room in the Army for political activists. Enjoy retirement.

Response by CPT Chris Swatty made Nov 2 at 2020 5:44 PM

2020-11-02T17:44:37-05:00

Damn good question CSM Stanek. He subverted the Chain of Command, he shared privileged, if not highly classified information in the highest post (arguably White House duty, given his position, extremely high). He politicized his role, provided actionable intelligence to persons without a tangible need-to-know without gaining approval from his chain of command prior to release. Two hundred years ago he'd have been hanged as Benedict Arnold should have been...

Response by Cpl Ronald Everitt made Nov 3 at 2020 2:36 AM

2020-11-03T02:36:21-05:00

With over 400 unopened emails in my general account from about as many months old as the one for this reply is,let alone at least that many paper mailings opened but laid aside (the each variations if not mostly wanting money then from some sort wants me) but anyway question is will this reply work for the tactic commonly known between us as CYA by that Rolaids commercial IS ANOTHER WAY OF SPELLING RELIEF...point is as to the reply as it applies to my personal perspective by comparison (about the other) we all did take the very same oath whether foreign or domestic and that from the start as for me and mine of what that filled out paperwork DD 214 form in 1972 represents to me since to present that if it's assumed I have had nothing but free time on my hands since the DD 214 of 1972 then it must be assumed as well since then of doing nothing but like a child pulling around after me a little toy Trojan Horse on a string in one hand though when not pulling it around sitting at a desk with a pen in the other working,waiting on that recess bell to ring so I can once again go out in the school yard and pull around my little Trojan Horse toy. But it was just before I earned that DD 214 in 1972 that two years before that earned a for real 12 year lower.edu diploma!!! Something as this reply anyway that even if I don't get to all that unanswered mail...TABS:

Response by Reginald Odom made Nov 3 at 2020 9:43 AM

2020-11-03T09:43:02-05:00

He should receive dishonorable discharge and serve his retirement in Levenworth.

Response by SFC Dennis Yancy made Nov 3 at 2020 9:53 AM

2020-11-03T09:53:15-05:00

Not really knowing all the truths about LTC Vindman I got an idea he might have gotten involved in something he should not have. This whole thing was all about politics and that is something to stay out of as a soldier.

Response by SFC Harold Benton made Nov 3 at 2020 2:57 PM

2020-11-03T14:57:06-05:00

He got involved in a political action while on Active Duty. He was as wrong as wrong can be. His personal opinion and political interests should have nothing to do with his Military mission. He intentionally let his opinions interfere with his mission. He is lucky to retire as a LTC.

Response by CPL Rob Hansen made Nov 3 at 2020 6:06 PM

2020-11-03T18:06:23-05:00

He was already to far along his career was at a dead end before impeachment.

Response by PFC Charles Tillia made Nov 3 at 2020 9:39 PM

2020-11-03T21:39:42-05:00

Both are being used by their birth country to help our enemies bring us down They are frauds and traitors.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 4 at 2020 6:18 PM

2020-11-04T18:18:16-05:00

LTC Vindman and his brother are indicative of what can happen to any one of us who operate within an organizational culture where a wide latitude of our opinions are highly valued and sought after. Humility of mind was greatly displaced by both of these Soldiers.

Respectfully,
Michael T. Scahill
LTC (R), US Army Europe

Response by LCDR Gilbert Wilson made Nov 4 at 2020 9:52 PM

2020-11-04T21:52:58-05:00

Less than honorable behavior and choices, besides apparently failing to detect the Biden illegal activities that were worthy of his attention in his sector of responsibility! Let him go and let him bear the label of failing as an entrusted leader given a command grade to lead by example. B.T.W. Vindman did not appear to be fit physically to lead as well. Soft and smarmy, not a look nor persona to encourage command and respect.

Response by COL Michael Foley made Nov 5 at 2020 12:52 PM

2020-11-05T12:52:13-05:00

LTC Vindman has been misguided by his own quest for power, versus service to his chain of command and his country. He joins a long line of such characters. I hope he profits from his book deal and hollywood movie. He is no Audie Murphy or Sergeant York!

Response by MAJ Jim Woods made Nov 5 at 2020 4:09 PM

2020-11-05T16:09:42-05:00

I got nothin

Response by PO2 John Laffrey made Nov 5 at 2020 4:22 PM

2020-11-05T16:22:19-05:00

LTC Vindman stood tall to defend our country against treasonous acts by a self centered president seeking to ingratiate himself with a former KGB agent (i.e., Putin). LTC Vindman will continue to be criticized by those whom are blinded by their incapacity to recognize a call to duty. LTC Vindman did exactly what he said he would do when he put on his military uniform - he defended our country against all enemies, foreign and domestic, while others meandered about looking for their moral compass. On November 3rd the majority of voters in this great country stood up to join LTC Vindman in speaking out against a clear and present danger. I salute LTC Vindman for his courage and thank him for his service to the United States of America. Indeed, many are called, but few are chosen to own the leadership roles they represent.

Response by PO1 Barry Adams made Nov 6 at 2020 12:47 AM

2020-11-06T00:47:16-05:00

They should have listened to him!

Response by Cpl Joshua Caldwell made Nov 7 at 2020 6:58 AM

2020-11-07T06:58:26-05:00

He is a traitor. He actively participated in an illegal plot against the POTUS. He should be tried and hung if convicted.

Response by CPO Don Campbell made Nov 7 at 2020 3:21 PM

2020-11-07T15:21:42-05:00

No the man put his time in and deserves his retirement...as an O-4 or better yet E-9...notice I didn't associate the title of rank just the number associated with the pay grade...not U active duty folks but us old retired dogs can write letters to the white house inquiring if President Trump has powers opposite of a pardon

Response by CPT George Hale made Nov 8 at 2020 7:38 AM

2020-11-08T07:38:56-05:00

He should have kept his mouth shut and steered clear of the spotlight. Seems like a publicity seeking type too close and supportive of the Ukrainians. As an American Army officer his duty was to observe and report on what they were doing. not take up their cause.

Response by CPO Jim Krenek made Nov 8 at 2020 5:19 PM

2020-11-08T17:19:02-05:00

He's a traitor

Response by CW5 Edward "Tate" Jones Jr. made Nov 8 at 2020 9:37 PM

2020-11-08T21:37:09-05:00

An eminently unremarkable officer who had already achieved his Peter Principle Pinnacle.

Response by SFC Howard Holmes made Nov 8 at 2020 11:15 PM

2020-11-08T23:15:46-05:00

Commissioned Officers Especially are supposed to be non-partial. They are given a job and they are to perform that job to the standards of achieving the overall objectives. They are supposed to perform these duties in a non-partisan manner. These are the reasons why we are not supposed to attend political rallies and the such in our military uniforms. Vindman was blatantly partisan, even in the way he treated members of the House during his testimony. When a Republican Senator addressed him as Mr. Vindman, he said that his title was Lt. Col. and that's how that Congressman was going to address him. Yet,, he showed non of this hostility toward Democrat Congressional Reps. While in the performance of our duties, under orders of the military, in a professional military manner, not in a biased manner with malicious intent in any way shape or form for underlying political involvement or personal gain. Lt. Col. Vindman violated most of these ethos. If leadership cannot live their lives as an example pertaining to the Army and Military ethical and/or ethical standards, how are these officers going to carry out fair, non-personal actions against subordinates who fall under his/her command? Non-ethical performance and behavior by officers, especially those in high-visibility positions affects moral and good order within the ranks. He never wore a uniform while at work in the White House, but all of the sudden, during his testimony, he's going to use his military uniform to add credibility to his story. This was an underhanded abuse of his military position. His lack of leadership, consideration, and outright partiality was unbecoming an officer. His resignation was completely proper, as he shot himself in the foot for promotional opportunity, and not because of his outright bias, but his lack of leadership. BTW, since when does an O-5 get offered a position as Minister of Defense, meaning being in charge of the entire military of a foreign country - Ukraine? This offer came to him not once, not twice, but three times. I highly doubt that the requirements of an O-5 do not allow him to adequately perform a job at that level. So was his resignation really due to the fact that the POTUS was going to go after him, or is it that he was afraid of what might be uncovered during a thorough background investigation? He gambled with and risked his own career for some partisan crap. If in uniform, do it to the best of your ability without seeking favor from or because of your position, and perform them in a non-partisan manner.

Response by MSgt Wes Tracy made Nov 9 at 2020 8:17 AM

2020-11-09T08:17:59-05:00

As a retired Air Force enlisted, but more importantly as patriotic American, I should qualify my statement by saying I'm very anti-trump. Many behavior analysts will tell you everyone has a 'tell' of some sort, some action that indicates they are not telling the truth. With Trump, it's when his lips move. LTC Vindman attended under subpoena and testified under oath. Trump fully expected him to lie to congress because most other people in his circle do so without hesitation. However, LTC Vindman told the truth. Trump violated federal law by retaliating against a witness and intimidating future witnesses, even to the point of attacking Vindman's brother. I applaud LTC Vindman's ethics in telling the truth and regret the Republican party and senators supported Trump so fully. (I was a Republican most of my life until Trump took over.) I will be so happy to see Trump and his royal family leave the white house.

Response by SSgt Glenn Martin made Nov 9 at 2020 10:39 AM

2020-11-09T10:39:16-05:00

Personally I think Vindman is a POS. Enough Said!

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 9 at 2020 10:53 AM

2020-11-09T10:53:14-05:00

Pfc Vindman and his brother are working as security guards at Democratic National Committee headquarters under the command of Debbie WhatHerName Schultz. They are also moonlighting at Walmart.

Response by LTC Neil Lang made Nov 16 at 2020 4:25 PM

2020-11-16T16:25:31-05:00

I retired several years ago so the definition of a military hero may have changed over time but I don't think so. Honestly, I cannot label LTC Vindman a hero for the same reasons a lot of people have already mentioned. I am sad that those who have provided opinions, have turned this question into a political football. To me, this is going to far.

Response by CPO Eugene Gillam made Dec 2 at 2020 11:32 PM

2020-12-02T23:32:10-05:00

To put it in Navy terms, f*** him!

Response by LTC Michael Lamb made Dec 4 at 2020 8:44 AM

2020-12-04T08:44:25-05:00

Liberal ass traitor

Response by SP6 Greg Jetter made Dec 4 at 2020 4:24 PM

2020-12-04T16:24:07-05:00

Really ? you really want to know ? as just an average ex NCO all i got to say is the military has fallen into the shits , Allowing that TRAITOR Vindman and his brother to just retire after their treason , their participation in a COUP against the duly elected president of the united states , their commander and chief is outrageous and is a slap in the face of all those who have fought and died for this country.

Response by SSG Cam Prince made Dec 4 at 2020 4:35 PM

2020-12-04T16:35:27-05:00

As a former ASA troop, I believe he violated a number of military regs andUS laws. I feel sure if I had done such as an NCO I would have gotten life plus at LEAVENWORTH.

Response by Sgt Dale Wood made Dec 4 at 2020 10:53 PM

2020-12-04T22:53:40-05:00

He should have received a bad conduct rating a a general discharge under dishonorable conditions.

Response by 1SG Ken Bedwell made Dec 5 at 2020 12:06 AM

2020-12-05T00:06:31-05:00

He let his personal politics affect his professional performance. Time to go.

Response by PV2 Bob Ondown made Dec 6 at 2020 3:52 PM

2020-12-06T15:52:10-05:00

He is a POS.

Response by SCPO John Rohdy made Dec 25 at 2020 9:57 PM

2020-12-25T21:57:33-05:00

Agree with the previous statement, personally do not believe vindman was acting out of conscious or in the best interests of our country. Enjoy your retirement.

Response by 1SG Michael Farrell made Dec 26 at 2020 2:42 AM

2020-12-26T02:42:28-05:00

There is of course one problem; he was compelled to appear, and told the truth as he knew it, knowing full well that any chance he had of further promotion was pretty much doomed. He told the truth and should have been afforeded protection under the whistleblower act. He wasn't. Frankly, I'm saddened by the opinions of so many of the people here I regard as my brothers and sisters. But, regardless of his brass, he was a Foreign Area Officer and that was his career. He went to Afghanistan and got a purple heart, but no award for valor. He served honorably but his job was to figure out what the Russians were doing while we were doing what the Russians had been doing for 10 or so years ending up 12 or so years before we went in.

Response by SSgt John DelaVina made Dec 26 at 2020 1:57 PM

2020-12-26T13:57:39-05:00

My opinion is that he assumed that his rank entitled him to do as he pleases. Self centered where he would probably throw his own mother under a bus just for recognition and “5 minutes” of fame He contradicted himself on various subjects and he would be an officer that wouldn’t and could not be trusted For those below him, his retirement was a good thing

Response by LTJG Sandra Smith made Dec 26 at 2020 2:54 PM

2020-12-26T14:54:14-05:00

I watched those hearings, including his testimony. I was offended he dared wear his uniform to them, and thoroughly disgusted with his statements, and attitude in making them, alike. When I heard leftists touting him as an hero, I was nauseated! (I generally don't nauseate easily; too many yrs of "really gross" between nursing and EMS.) Not only do I not think he shoukd've beenallowed to retire, let alone be put forward for promotion, I believe he should've been before a court martial, stripped of his rank, and tried for treason to the oath he took. He was caught openly in blatant lies to Congress, as well as in seditious rebellion against his CIC, without real cause for either!

Response by GySgt Thomas Vick made Dec 26 at 2020 5:03 PM

2020-12-26T17:03:48-05:00

Mr. Vindman in my opinion should've kept his mouth shut, I'm surprised they didn't jerk his retirement pay.

Response by SSG Wayne Work made Dec 27 at 2020 11:03 PM

2020-12-27T23:03:20-05:00

He should be court marshalled for disrespect to senior government officials, in proper ware of the uniform, conduct unbecoming an officer, and I am sure I can find other glaring issues and UCMJ related charges.

Response by Col Ralph Templin made Dec 28 at 2020 4:50 PM

2020-12-28T16:50:13-05:00

Says he "felt marginalized" by POTUS comments. Good for him recognizing that he is about as marginal as there is.

Response by 1SG Roberto Peralta-Vazquez made Dec 28 at 2020 7:22 PM

2020-12-28T19:22:07-05:00

I feel he is a disloyal piece of human feces. He got political for the democrats and lied in front of congress. I bet he knew the whistle blower which was probably him. Plus he should be kicked out of the service for being fat and overweight. No loss here. To me he is a disgrace.

Response by SSG William Hull made Dec 30 at 2020 10:14 AM

2020-12-30T10:14:21-05:00

He did his job, honored and fulfilled his oath as an officer. Note; he was not the whistleblower, he simply reported his concerns as his position required him to. He was duty bound to testify before congress when called to and answered their questions as to what he did, felt and believed. Just because someone doesn't like or agree with his answers does not invalidate them. As a commissioned officer he was placed in a vary difficult position and responded with America's best interest in mind, not the president's or his career, with no thought of personal gain.

Response by Col Tri Trinh made Dec 30 at 2020 10:42 PM

2020-12-30T22:42:08-05:00

He’s on the right side of history. Not enough of his chain of command (mil and civ) had the courage to support him.

Response by MSgt Sidney Lichter made Dec 31 at 2020 11:10 AM

2020-12-31T11:10:25-05:00

Attaboy! Standing up for what is right trumps DJT and all his yes-men.

Response by Maj Don Harmon made Dec 31 at 2020 11:26 AM

2020-12-31T11:26:26-05:00

I hope that immediately after new Pres. Biden is installed, that he direct his Secretary of Defense to develop a just "rehab" policy for LTC Vindman, and offer to return him to active duty in the rank and assignment he would have achieved, had Mr. Trump and his officials not have illegally and unjustly destroyed his career. Same for his brother. Both are highly distinguished officers who were outstanding and deserved better treatment. Read about the exceptional LTC Vindman here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexander_Vindman

Alexander_Vindman

Response by SPC Michael Duricko, Ph.D made Dec 31 at 2020 1:20 PM

2020-12-31T13:20:48-05:00

A mole !

Response by SSG(P) Danielle Birtha made Dec 31 at 2020 4:14 PM

2020-12-31T16:14:44-05:00

Those who are members of the President's National Security Council carry the HIGHEST Security Clearance possible. And, AS WITH ALL SECURITY CLEARANCES, the highest condition of a clearance is: NEED TO KNOW!
IMO... BOTH LTC Vindman's committed treason, by violating that condition.
Alex Vindman (NO... I shall NOT use his military rank again... his actions demand justice)... ran to Nancy Pelosi to tattle on Trump for not following the script given him by Vindman... THAT INTERFERRED WITH TREATY NEGOTIATIONS OF LEADERS OF NATIONS... a script that dictated Trump would release Treaty funds to Ukraine... BEFORE new President Zelenski and President of the U.S. had met... TO SIGN THE TREATY!
--> IF Trump had done as commanded by Pelosi, HE WOULD BE IN PRISON! Why?
H.R. 4152 Specifically States in the VERY FIRST SENTENCE: "... Makes available to Ukraine for loan guarantees specified funds under the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 and funds under prior Acts for the Department of State, foreign operations, and related programs."
--> IT IS A LOAN TO UKRAINE... NOT A GIFT!
--> ALOAN MUST BE REPAID! ... AND ... A LOAN MUST HAVE THE SIGNATURE OF THE RECIPIENT (Zelenski)... and the LOANER... The President of the United States...
OR IT IS A GIFT OF THE TAX DOLLARS OF WE THE PEOPLE OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA!
--> That's not allowed. For a President to dip into OUR TAXES, and freely give them away to any other country ... is TREASON!
--> NO LENDING INSTITUTION ON THIS PLANET WILL GIVE A LOAN TO ANYONE, WITHOUT A SIGNATURE PROMISING TO PAY IT BACK UNTIL THE TERMS OF THE LOAN...
--> READ THOSE TERMS BEFORE YOU CONDEMN TRUMP FOR DOING HHIS JOB AS COMMANDED BY THE U.S. CONSTITUTION... AND THAT TREATY... AND INTERNATIONAL TREATY LAW!
--> https://www.congress.gov/bill/113th-congress/house-bill/4152
The Constitution says: "...shall have Power, by and with the Advice and Consent of the SENATE, to MAKE TREATIES,..." provided two thirds of the Senators present concur, in Article Two, Section 2.
--> BY AND WITH THE ADVICE AND CONSENT OF 2/3 OF THE SENATE... PERIOD.
--> NOT THE SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE. The ONLY part of Treaties that the House is involved in is to Authorize Appropriations requested in Treaties NEGOTIATED by the President ONLY.
Those Negotiations are NOT need to know information.
The Speaker of the House is NOT part of the National Security Council of the Office of the President of the United States of America!
REVEALING TOP SECRET EYES ONLY TREATY NEGOTIATIONS WITH OTHER COUNTRIES IS A VIOLATION OF THAT CLEARANCE, AND VINDMAN'S OATH AS AN OFFICER OF THE UNITED STATES MILITARY >(
HE SHOULD HAVE BEEN STRIPPED OF HIS RANK, AND IMPRISONED FOR TREASON!
Not asked to retire with Honor >(
and... btw... according to that Impeachment of Trump... evidence revealed says IT WAS JOE COOL TRAITOR BIDEN WHO WAS COLLUDING WITH RUSSIA TO PREVENT BURISMA OIL FROM BEING OWNED BY UKRAINE... AND HIS QUID PRO QUO OF FIRING THAT PROSECUTOR, TO PREVENT HIMSELF FROM BEING IMPRISONED FOR THE HIGH TREASON EVIDENCE UNEARTHED IN THAT INVESTIGATION... TO INTERFER WITH AN INTERNATION TREATY WITH NATIONS, AS VICE PRESIDENT, PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE, WITH ONLY THE POWER TO BE A GOPHER... TO WORK WITH THE ENEMY AS THE DEMOCRATIC DICTATORS SCREAMED DURING THE IMPEACHMENT...
"CHINA... IS... THE ENEMY! ... RUSSIA... IS... THE ENEMY ... NO ONE ... IS ABOVE... THE LAW!!!"
--> Except Joe Cool Biden... serial statutory rapist Joe Hands of the Congress and White House for 35 years... who will be your next President on January 20, 2021... who will open our borders to the world, to come help themselves, as he BOWS to the Crowns who now own U.S. by DICTATED Trade deals
While the NOT Criminal Trump... IS KICKED TO THE CURB FOR DOING HIS JOB AS COMMANDED BY OUR LAW... AND 4+ YEARS OF FBI/JUSTICE DEPARTMENT INVESTIGATIONS FIND NO EVIDENCE OF ANY CRIME COMMITTED BY TRUMP!
.. except he would not sign away our Dairy Products to China... the Enemy... until threatened with chain impeachments until he did.
Which he did, right after the Impeachment.
Our Precious Foods... and Dairy Products... and oh so very much more, Traded away to ... CHINA... THE ENEMY... BY LAW????
WTF IS WRONG WITH YOU THE PEOPLE THAT YOU CHEER FOR THIS TREASON ON THE PART OF YOUR SERVANTS, WHO ARE DICTATING YOUR LIVES AWAY TO YOUR ENEMIES... BY LAW.... DICTATED LAW... AGAINST YOUR LAW?
--> WHAT PART OF THE CONSTITUTION OF THE U.S. ... OR ANY LAW MADE TO COMPLY WITH IT...
--> GIVES OUR SERVANTS THE RIGHT.... THE RIGHT.... TO SNATCH --> OUR <-- PRECIOUS BLESSINGS OF PROSPEROUS LIBERTY... OUR JOBS... OUT FROM UNDER OUR FEET... TO TRADE AWAY TO AN ENEMY???????
---> OR AN INVADING FORCE?
Read it... NO PART allows them to do what they are doing to U.S.
EVERY part calls them criminal traitor... for breaking their oaths of allegiance to U.S.
WAKE UP... YOU THE MILITARY ARE OUR LAST LINE OF DEFENSE!!!
WE CAN'T FIRE THEM, OR VOTE THEM OUT OF OFFICE WHEN WE ARE OUTVOTED BY INVADERS WITH THE RIGHT TO VOTE IN OUR ELECTIONS, AND ELECTORS WHO ARE COMMANDED TO VOTE AS TOLD BY THEIR STATE LEGISLATURES, RATHER THAN AS COMMANDED BY ARTICLE TWO SECTION ONE OF THE CONSTITUTION, SUPREME LAW OF THIS LAND!!
YOU OUR MILITARY ARE SUPPOSED TO DRAG TRAITORS OUT OF THEIR OFFICES AND HANG THEM FOR THEIR TREASON, WHILE WE THE PEOPLE HOLD AN ELECTION TO REPLACE THEM WITH LOYAL SERVANTS OF WE THE PEOPLE!!
--> YOU ARE ... NOT ... SUPPOSED TO FOLLOW ANY ORDER THAT VIOLATES THAT CONSTITUTION, OR THE UNIFORM CODE OF MILITARY JUSTICE...
WHEN YOUR NAZI RULERS COMMAND YOU TO START SHOOTING YOUR FELLOW CITIZENS...
--> TURN YOUR GUNS AT THE RULERS AND EXTERMINATE THEM >(
This is NOT the Republic of the United Socialist States of Imperial America (R.U.S.S.I.A.)
IT IS THE FREE AND DEMOCRATIC UNITED STATES OF WE, THE PEOPLE OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA...
LOOK AT TRUMP.... TRUMP DID NOT DO IT....
LOOK AT YOUR DEMOCRATIC NATIONAL SOCIALIST FASCIST DICTATORS WHO ARE PROMISING U.S. A NEW WAY OF LIFE...
A SOCIALIST ONE... SOCIALIST... IS ANTI-SOCIAL... AS ALL CAN SEE IN SEATTLE... AS KSHAMA SAWANT DEMON-STRATES SOCIALIST OPPRESSION ON THE HEADS OF HER CONSTITUENTS >(
THEY... YES THEY CAN... MOVE FORWARD... WITH SOCIALIST VALUES... AND LEGALIZED CENSORED PROPAGANDA... TO CREATE A COMMUNIST DICTATORSHIP.
STOP... looking at Trump. Wipe the $#@% from your eyes and ears, spit out the %$#@ you have been willingly consuming... %$#@ that tastes like treason....
Do you Take a Knee "to the Flag... of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands"?
OR ARE YOU A LOYAL PATRIOT CITIZEN WILLING TO TAKE BACK YOUR COUNTRY FROM THE DICTATOR OPPRESSORS?
OUR SERVANTS ARE NOT OUR RULERS!!!
WE DON'T BOW TO THEM!
THEY DO NOT OWN OUR LIVES!!!
WE... OWN... THEIRS!
THEY BOW TO U.S. ... TO SERVE U.S. ... NOT TO RULE U.S.!!!
WAKE UP!

H.R.4152 - 113th Congress (2013-2014): Support for the Sovereignty, Integrity, Democracy, and...

Summary of H.R.4152 - 113th Congress (2013-2014): Support for the Sovereignty, Integrity, Democracy, and Economic Stability of Ukraine Act of 2014

Response by PO2 Louis Fattrusso made Dec 31 at 2020 5:04 PM

2020-12-31T17:04:05-05:00

He shouldn’t have been involved. Also, it was tacky to wear his uniform when he worked in civilian close.

Response by MAJ John Davis made Jan 1 at 2021 3:28 PM

2021-01-01T15:28:33-05:00

He acted in the great tradition of the service. He went through appropriate channels to advise that something was wrong. His efforts to tell the truth, to act appropriately, showed he would not lie, cheat, or steal or tolerate those who do. It took courage to do the right thing, and he did it.

Response by MSgt Joseph Townsend made Jan 1 at 2021 4:10 PM

2021-01-01T16:10:10-05:00

I don't think he should have allowed to retire asa Lt Colonel. He gave false information and contradicted his self and a few statements. When it was to his benefit he would go out of the CoC. If his would have been an enlisted NCO he would probably been reduced to Privete and discharged under "Other than Honorable". These areall my personal opinions.

Response by CPL Joseph Elinger made Jan 1 at 2021 7:06 PM

2021-01-01T19:06:02-05:00

None of my business / "above my pay grade."

Response by MSgt Janice Trojan made Jan 1 at 2021 11:02 PM

2021-01-01T23:02:12-05:00

With all due respect. A little weasel.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 3 at 2021 11:41 AM

2021-01-03T11:41:05-05:00

He EARNED COL, it was approved by every single person in the Chain of Command, until 45 decided to hold up the ENTIRE O6 list over Politricks

Response by SCPO David Long made Jan 3 at 2021 2:19 PM

2021-01-03T14:19:49-05:00

Almost trader like behavior and NO Way a leader.

Response by SSG Randall Speck made Jan 4 at 2021 2:41 PM

2021-01-04T14:41:50-05:00

Good move! He should have been made to resign. He let political bias interfere with his duties to his Commander and Chief. He should leave the military in shame!

Response by SGT Michael Dixon made Jan 7 at 2021 12:09 PM

2021-01-07T12:09:59-05:00

I watched the hearings very closely. In my opinion LTC Vindman "IS" the whistle blower. This LTC felt slighted that he was not "In the loop" nor consulted with affairs dealing with Ukraine. LTC Vindman is of Ukrainian birth. He stated that he was an expert in this field. This man had his feelings hurt when he was not consulted about his motherland. Ship his A** back to them, but my taxes still has to pay his retirement check. :(

Response by Col Randy Hagan made Jan 7 at 2021 7:18 PM

2021-01-07T19:18:10-05:00

LTC Vindman performed one of the most courageous acts that any military person can do, and that is to ignore very certain adverse career impact in order to fulfill his duty. He knew that a fecal storm would follow his testimony and yet knew also that his duty required him to answer the questions put to him by House committee members, fully, factually and truthfully. Many individuals may feel free to criticize him, but those with intimate familiarity with the landscape of senior positions such as LTC Vindman's on the NSC understand just what a tough position he was in and why his appearance before Congress was such a gut check. Remember, we take an oath to support and defend the Constitution ... no specific individual. That's what LTC Vindman did -- he obeyed the law. I like to think I would have been able to fulfill that duty if I were in his place, but I am not 100% certain that I could have done so the way he did.

Response by 1SG Patrick Sims made Jan 10 at 2021 8:28 AM

2021-01-10T08:28:00-05:00

The president is the Commander-in-Chief. The military takes its orders from the legally elected civilian authority. If you don't like the person elected it doesn't give you the right to turn on him or her. If you feel that way you belong in the Salvation Army, not the US Army.

Response by SPC Jerome Henehan made Jan 10 at 2021 9:38 PM

2021-01-10T21:38:15-05:00

I admire the officer. Saw his duty and did it to try to protect our country from the "Manchurian Candidate ".

Response by SPC Chris Ison made Jan 11 at 2021 12:10 PM

2021-01-11T12:10:01-05:00

Personally i think he shows integrity, and should have been acknowledge as such.

However, every conservative in this forum will disagree, they think Trump, is somehow the greatest thing since sliced bread, even though he has openly and repeatedly disparaged John McCain and active duty soldiers.

Funny how when a republican says something it is okay, but let a democrat do it, and they are unpatriotic.

People pissed off a football player kneels for the anthem and flag, but allows a draft dodging prick keep kicking them in the teeth.

Bitching about violent protest, and a peaceful protest drives them so mad, they storm the capitol and threaten congress, trying to overthrow a legal election, like we are in some banana republic.

Response by PO1 Todd McMillin made Feb 8 at 2021 2:44 PM

2021-02-08T14:44:13-05:00

He did his duty to the Country vs the Office of the President and that's what truly mattered. You "OATH" is to the COUNTRY FIRST and not a man who is financially indebted to a foreign leader. Let's not forget that our Government as well as our Allies knew that a Putin had a collar around Trump and his family. Everything that happened was due to Putin wanting to undermine the US Government and US Military on purpose by his guy in the Oval Office. The fact that we're just learning about this now means that every single Intelligence Agency in the world knew that Trump was a puppet for Putin; yet we allowed him into office because of White Supremacy and Evangelical Extremism that existed. The fear of HRC (who I loathe as just as much has anyone as a horrid vile person regardless of her gender/sex) was clearly not deserving of the Oval Office and Presidency.

Let's not forget that there are two books written about the fact that Trump was Putin's Bitch and that everyone knew and yet let it happen. If it wasn't for COVID-19 and Trump's epic blundering that he'd still be in the Oval Office now as Liar and Thief destroying everything that made our Country Great and Honorable. Everyone who supported Trump as President is traitor and should be condemned for it especially after the event's of Jan 6, 2021 (Insurrection Day) and those folks who engaged in letting it happen in the Pentagon should be charged under the UCMJ for Sedition and other Articles as punishment. Anything less than a OTH or similar should be seen as a complete FAILURE of the incoming leadership to remove the Domestic Terrorism and Foreign Intelligence operations against the USA and it's military.

Those books are: American Kompromat: How the KGB Cultivated Donald Trump, and Related Tales of Sex, Greed, Power, and Treachery and House of Trump, House of Putin: The Untold Story of Donald Trump and the Russian Mafia by Craig Unger. They should be required reading for anyone to understand how we let a bunch of Foreign Government and Foreign Intelligence Agencies are controlling the Politicians who are run our nation into the ground.

Worse is that our leadership at both City, Federal and State level are still doing it by passing "Loyalty Oaths" to Foreign Countries like the Israeli Government in not being allowed to openly boycott or criticize that nation-state. This is both Unconstitutional and completely illegal as well; since this is the USA and NOT ISRAEL. The same applies for Chinese Government involvement by Mitch McConnell and Rand Paul as examples; including other members of Government (at all levels) whom are interesting in advancing those Foreign interests over the USA for their bank accounts. Technically it's seen as Treason or Sedition or Spying; depending on what level of actions are being done by those individuals who are undermining the US Government and Military for the sake of power and profit over the good of the US and it's citizenry.

Response by SPC Will Thorson made Feb 10 at 2021 10:46 AM

2021-02-10T10:46:08-05:00

You people kill me. He did nothing wrong. That has been proven over and over again. The "trump can never do wrong" crowd is at it again. He went thru the proper channels, if he didn't he would be in trouble. He isn't and wasn't. It's that simple. Your opinion definitely shows a bias. It's embarrassing. Every single time someone says he went against regulations or anything of that nature, you get ripped back to reality and facts. Over and over again. His oath is to the United States not to trump. The same with his brother. It is just sad that a lot of you call him a traitor when trump has been hiding all his conversations with Putin. Except that since biden is president, he can actually get those out and he will. People bitching about vidman are the exact same people who will do everything they can do to defend trump. Calling fellow servicemen traitors for doing their jobs hole ignoring a president who at every turn defended far right wing supremacists and mocked our intelligence and our military officers. But vindman bad.

Response by SFC Ron Shaffer made Feb 11 at 2021 2:06 PM

2021-02-11T14:06:05-05:00

Nothing speaks more about an higher grade
Officer than the awards he is wearing. As soon as I saw a CIB and a Purple Heart from serving in a combat theater in Iraq, butt no BSM. Was telling for me. He was a sorry excuse for an officer and should have been forced out before achieving the rank of Major.

Response by MAJ Craig Gilkison made Feb 14 at 2021 10:57 AM

2021-02-14T10:57:00-05:00

I saw him as pompous twit LTC who thought a great deal of himself. He was horrified that he was not considered the final authority on matters far above his pay grade. Good riddance.

Response by SGT Doug Blanchard made Feb 26 at 2021 8:53 PM

2021-02-26T20:53:30-05:00

Imo this POS should have been courtmartialed for his actions. He broke his CoC, probably lied to congress; which is a crime in itself. He disrespected his CiC, he disgraced the uniform he wore. I have nothing goid to say about him or his pos twin either. As they both struck me as thinking they were God's gift to the U.S. military and their crap did not stink.

Response by TSgt Jeffrey Shackleford made Mar 14 at 2021 9:43 AM

2021-03-14T09:43:38-04:00

He should be in jail.

Response by SGT Jerry Hoy made Apr 12 at 2021 12:29 AM

2021-04-12T00:29:23-04:00

He lied and falsified documents. He should have faced a courts martial.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 16 at 2021 7:42 AM

2021-04-16T07:42:11-04:00

He was politically retained...

Response by SSgt Tommy Harrison made Apr 18 at 2021 4:26 PM

2021-04-18T16:26:34-04:00

He should have been Court's Marshaled. As military members who have to sign Disclosure Documents. He broke the law. If he had been Enlisted. He would have been demoted as well as Court Marshaled. How is the LTC any different?

Response by SSG Ivan J. Beaulieu, MBA made Apr 25 at 2021 10:48 AM

2021-04-25T10:48:13-04:00

Just more hate from the right. LTC. Vidmen is an American hero. Why the right continues to litigate this matter, because their failed Presidential leader under the bus is beyond me. Trump maintains sole responsibility for his incompetence, bad behavior and repetitive betrayal of the American people.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 27 at 2021 3:30 AM

2021-04-27T03:30:13-04:00

"President Trump's US House of Representatives impeachment process" or The failed coup and Vindman is a traitor and apparently a liar as was blatantly apparent as he contradicted himself.

Response by CW3 Charles Morris made May 24 at 2021 1:12 PM

2021-05-24T13:12:10-04:00

In my opinion LTC Alexander Vindman (US Army, Ret) chose the HARD right decision to report what he believed was illegal activity by the former President of the United States, over the EASY wrong decision to ignore the President's conduct. His appearance before President Trump's first impeachment trial, as that of others in the government, was the only possible course of action available for Vindman. Whether you like him or not, he chose duty, honor and country rather than to be part of a coverup. In my book, LTC Alexander Vindman should be recognized as a great American hero for putting the "rule of law" ahead of fealty to the former president.

Response by CWO3 Robert Fong made May 24 at 2021 5:33 PM

2021-05-24T17:33:39-04:00

CSM, In the end, this sorry excuse for a senior officer could not separate his personal politics from his job and I am afraid he used his job to hurt the President. As an immigrant he was on his way to "Gloryland" with an outstanding career. He botched his personal as well as his military life up. If he wanted to "trash talk" the President, then retire, put on a coat and tie and trash talk to your heart's content, but as long as you are in your sailor or army suit your only response should be Aye, Aye, Sir. Further, he left himself open to criticism and fact finding that made him look less than honorable. Frankly, I'm surprised he retired as a LTC and not a LT and what audacity to think he would get the retirement Bird. Damn, if one expects one's crew to follow you and not second guess you by committee then one needs to return the same courtesy. Short of the President being a traitor, he still gets an Aye, Aye, Sir from me until competent authority relives him as CinC.

Response by MSG Bob S made May 24 at 2021 6:40 PM

2021-05-24T18:40:16-04:00

He needs to be throat punched and a mudhole stomped in his head. The very first thing we had to memorize before hitting the rack at my basic traning unit was the CoC and at the top of the heap on 21 March 1992 was President George HW Bush. One does NOT go over the Presidents head because he/she doesnt like or disagrees an answer or viewpoint

Response by Lt Col Timothy Cassidy-Curtis made May 24 at 2021 7:00 PM

2021-05-24T19:00:59-04:00

Funny thing. When I went to look this guy up, his Wikipedia page was in Arabic.

Response by SP5 Robert Kennedy made May 25 at 2021 11:47 AM

2021-05-25T11:47:54-04:00

As I see it, a liar is a liar. Vindman may be a retired Vet, but more importantly he is a liar, a traitor and a puke.

Response by SFC Geedee Meadows made May 25 at 2021 5:10 PM

2021-05-25T17:10:34-04:00

To each his own is not just a phrase but a thought. Did his actions have an effect on what has been or is going to done? If one feels it did so be it, if you happened to think otherwise then time will determine what is the correct course. We are too often quick to judgement not realizing that there is half truths being sewn each day. If we let the weede and the grass grow together then in their season each will serve its purpose. Too often we want to determine what is right for others without considering their circumstance.

Response by Mark T. DeNucci, Sr. made Jun 12 at 2021 11:49 PM

2021-06-12T23:49:58-04:00

He is an American hero who took his oath to defend America against all enemies, both foreign and domestic, to heart.

Response by 1SG Michael Farrell made Jun 14 at 2021 1:47 AM

2021-06-14T01:47:41-04:00

We forget that the Constitution is designed to slowly along on these things, and for the President considering any type of censure or removal, the system is slower. The first impeachment in the modern era, of course, was that of Richard Nixon and it didn't happen because the Republic elders -- Goldwater et al -- went to the White House and told him that the majority of the Republicans in the Senate would join the Democratic majority and vote to convict. However that particular backstory, the Watergate Affair ultimately was seen to unfold several years. Today, the speed of discovery and of events resulted in total saturation of the media and discussions over coffee, beer or moonshine. That may have had a more serious impact on the nation than anything else. I appreciate CSM Stanek's measured approach to this matter, and focusing on one small piece of the puzzle -- Vindman was one person speaking out, and while retiring in a few years as a Colonel, his record was not one that would make me suspect he'd be selected over other qualified candidates. It would have been a political promotion, and he'd probably have found himself chairing or teaching at the War Colllege or CGSC.

Response by SGT Jeff Everhart made Jun 14 at 2021 11:10 AM

2021-06-14T11:10:25-04:00

He should have been required to tender his commission before testifying before Congress.

Response by SFC Tim Kammerer made Jun 14 at 2021 11:23 AM

2021-06-14T11:23:53-04:00

He should have been court martialed!

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 14 at 2021 6:19 PM

2021-06-14T18:19:25-04:00

he had a great assignment that set him up for promotion and perhaps a star. he became political and torched it all. Openly political. He allowed his animus for a politician to guide his actions. Plus, he thought he was the lead on Ukraine when he was an Action officer. His ego got in the way. BTW...the selection for promotion is technically a Presidential nomination but, not really. The Senate approves, so he may or may not have made it thru there. Anyway, he retires as an LTC and he will find a job in DC. He was a useful hero to certain people for 15 minutes and now, they will throw him aside.

Response by CSM David Heidke made Jun 14 at 2021 6:52 PM

2021-06-14T18:52:24-04:00

He’s a disgrace. He shouldn’t even be allowed to collect retirement. He was clearly in violation of several regulations. If he did this to Obama he would be in Leavenworth.

Response by SP5 Norman Binder made Jun 15 at 2021 2:23 PM

2021-06-15T14:23:08-04:00

What the repubs did to him was plain as day...nuf said.

Response by SPC(P) Mark Newman made Jun 15 at 2021 3:12 PM

2021-06-15T15:12:58-04:00

Sorry, guys, but I find Vindman to be heroic. It's hard (for me) to tell the CO and the 1SG, "You are wrong."
I didn't know Vindman was a Liberal, and I try not judge him politically at all.
But when he testified (as long as it turns out to be true to the best of his recollection) then I think he did his duty in the face of his angry superiors, even knowing he would catch hell. That's devotion to duty. That is moral courage.

Response by LTC Ken Pruitt made Jun 16 at 2021 4:35 PM

2021-06-16T16:35:54-04:00

Glad he is out of uniform! Lack of Honor, Leadership, Integrity, and Values!

Response by LTC Martin Metz made Jun 16 at 2021 8:11 PM

2021-06-16T20:11:28-04:00

Military field grade should remain non-partisan while in uniform. LTC Vindman failed to heed that and got too close to the political flame instead. It consumed him. He should retire before that is consumed as well.

Response by LTC Karen McKay made Jun 16 at 2021 10:07 PM

2021-06-16T22:07:15-04:00

Vindman should have been court-martialled and breaking up rocks at Leavenworth the rest of his miserable life.

Response by SrA Ned Morris made Jun 17 at 2021 8:42 AM

2021-06-17T08:42:38-04:00

He’s a traitor and should be hung.

Response by CSM Colin Patterson made Jun 17 at 2021 9:46 AM

2021-06-17T09:46:24-04:00

I see a lot of soldiers and service members who forgot the code of conduct and are willing to ignore unethical illegal and immoral behavior. Remember this no one is above the law and what the president did was illegal. LTC Took an oath an upheld it. We do not live on a dictatorship or authoritarian society. Lots of you guys who are making negative comments about the LTC are politicians because if you believed in the oath you took which is to the constitution and not a person you would be objective and call a spade a spade. You are the yes men soldiers i stayed away from because you were spineless.

Response by SGT Donald Cook made Jun 17 at 2021 12:45 PM

2021-06-17T12:45:45-04:00

Backstabbing, lying traitor who violated his security clearance, and lied about his own command. he deserves a court marshal, and long prison time for his security clearance violations,

Response by CSM Colin Patterson made Jun 17 at 2021 1:43 PM

2021-06-17T13:43:15-04:00

It is illegal to use government resources for your personal gain. Primary reason he was impeached. He made the aid that Congress approved for Ukraine contingent on Ukraine giving him dirt on Biden. I don't play politics I call balls and strikes. He was impeached for his actions. America is a country of laws and men and laws Trump men. Vindman took an oath to the constitution, not the president, it's his duty to report any illegal activities he witnessed or was made aware of by a third party. The arguments on here against vindman are juvenile and illustrate a lack of critical thinking. Because what they are saying is if you as a servicemember observe or become aware of any illegal activity by your superiors you should ignore it. It is against the Army values and the code of conduct to sweep or ignore illegal activity you observed or were made aware of by a third party. You have a duty to report.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 17 at 2021 10:42 PM

2021-06-17T22:42:13-04:00

I can’t/shouldn’t say what I want to say about him.

And that should just about tell you everything I think.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 18 at 2021 1:39 AM

2021-06-18T01:39:15-04:00

Correct me if I'm wrong but an analyst analyses things. He seemed to put himself in the position of policy gatekeeper. He didn't seem to utilize IG or his chain of command but I could have that wrong. It struck me as fishy. I said that his next OER would tell the story and I'd love to read it. He was seemingly selected for 06 so that may vindicate him some [or all]

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 18 at 2021 2:51 AM

2021-06-18T02:51:02-04:00

PFC Vindman and his brother are exactly where they should be.

Response by CAPT Michael Maselly made Jun 18 at 2021 2:14 PM

2021-06-18T14:14:57-04:00

He was a colossal embarrassment. Furthermore he disgraced the uniform and his loyalties were suspicious

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Jun 19 at 2021 8:54 AM

2021-06-19T08:54:33-04:00

He was a HERO. The only one who did his duty

Response by SFC Randy Hellenbrand made Jun 19 at 2021 10:21 AM

2021-06-19T10:21:33-04:00

Vindman told the truth. Trump has 30,500+ lies to his credit. Oh, and 600,000+ deaths due to his ineptness. How is that for involvement there CSM???

Response by SFC Randy Hellenbrand made Jun 19 at 2021 4:47 PM

2021-06-19T16:47:17-04:00

Vindman is a hero. Better than those who lie for the wannabe be orange dictator traitor on here.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 20 at 2021 10:52 AM

2021-06-20T10:52:43-04:00

it would seem to me that any NCO especially a CSM would be happy to see an Officer actually do more then talk ARMY VALUES. I understand how many find such things as INTEGRITY and HONOR are inconvenient standards to live up to. That is probably why in my 13 years in the Army I only ran into 2 officers able to maintain such basic standards. That goes for Senior NCO's also who just talked and could not even pretend to understand those values and people wonder why the Military is in such chaos. Its all because they have no values. Just a bunch of talk.

Response by CW3 Sean Feely made Jun 21 at 2021 3:57 PM

2021-06-21T15:57:00-04:00

Vindman is the equivalent of a spot in the ranks. He should have been prosecuted for treason. No way he ever served in an MTOE unit. He looks like an overweight geek from the Pentagon that went to some unknown JROTC program. He doesn’t represent anything positive from a LEADER that I ever witnessed. Not sure who his mentors were but maybe they weren’t REAL ARMY men. I watched it all and he is a liar. #mole

Response by MAJ Jeffrey Johnson made Jun 22 at 2021 7:29 AM

2021-06-22T07:29:53-04:00

He displayed his obligations to the Constitution honorably. He chose honor over political reliability. It's sad that he was forced out.

Response by Bea Ishler made Jun 22 at 2021 10:29 AM

2021-06-22T10:29:00-04:00

He was put in a "no win" situation. He heard what he heard. Told his superiors and asked what to do. His superiors hung him out to dry. When he was subpoenaed he was told he had to respond. He answered truthfully to Congress and made a sitting president unhappy. He was not a traitor. He followed procedure and followed chain of command.

Response by SGT Ronald "Shorty" Napier made Jun 22 at 2021 5:15 PM

2021-06-22T17:15:00-04:00

His whole Superior attitude sucked. He tapped danced like a good politician. "He" didnt think it was appropriate for the Ukraine govt. to investigate a US citiiaen, H. Biden. A "citizen" who had meetings and dealing WITH those foreign officials. And blah blah blah. Wow, he should have been President !!

Response by SFC Gary Fox made Jun 22 at 2021 9:25 PM

2021-06-22T21:25:02-04:00

I think both Vindman and his brother should be investigated. You can be recalled to active duty to face a courts-martial.

Response by TSgt Chuck Mankin made Jun 23 at 2021 8:12 AM

2021-06-23T08:12:20-04:00

Vindamin is a chow thief and nothing more. He was one of those officers more worried about his personal gain and comfort that those who he led. It's good for everyone that he's done.

Response by PFC Ray Gibb made Jun 23 at 2021 8:06 PM

2021-06-23T20:06:07-04:00

NO! RETIREMENT should not be allowed, NO PENSION, NO HEALTH CARE, NO DISCOUNTS, NO VETERAN BENEFITS AT ALL.

This son of a bitch LIED to Congress, he lied to his CoC, he was part of the coup to overthrow the GOVERNMENT!

This Astard needs to be HANGED from the neck until dead, in a very public hanging on the Mall in DC.

Response by COL Joseph Monko made Jun 24 at 2021 6:26 PM

2021-06-24T18:26:41-04:00

Wouldn't want him in my unit!

Response by Sgt Charles Welling made Jun 24 at 2021 7:55 PM

2021-06-24T19:55:09-04:00

Not real fond of military people like him.

Response by MAJ Hugh Blanchard made Jun 24 at 2021 9:51 PM

2021-06-24T21:51:43-04:00

We're all entitled to a personal political opinion, but soldiers who get involved with politics usually don't enjoy the outcome. While serving in uniform, do your job and don't get into politics.

Response by SFC David Reid, M.S, PHR, SHRM-CP, DTM made Jun 25 at 2021 11:40 PM

2021-06-25T23:40:51-04:00

Bad Things happen to Good People- because he had the balls to speck to the truth - not untruths!

Response by SFC Stephen King made Jun 26 at 2021 8:50 AM

2021-06-26T08:50:20-04:00

The fact is he is lucky to retire. I seem to remember other people who were fired or forced to retire for less. Our Oath as members of the Military should be the deciding factor. I am appalled at his actions taken.

Response by SFC Ralph Dreher made Jul 9 at 2021 10:22 PM

2021-07-09T22:22:59-04:00

he had his nose in something he should not have it stuck it in and was a traitor

Response by SP5 Richard Kosack made Jul 13 at 2021 2:32 PM

2021-07-13T14:32:27-04:00

Aiding and Abetting a specious impeachment try should have earned him a general court Marshall appearance for false incriminating evidence.

Response by SGT Stephen Jaffe made Jul 15 at 2021 2:02 PM

2021-07-15T14:02:36-04:00

I belong to three veterans groups. I notice all of the retired army officers retired as O-5 Lt. Col. After at least 20years in. Usually it was somewhere around 25 years. They tell me in order to make O-6 Full Colonel, you have to become political. To make flag rank, you really have to be political. Maybe LTC. Vindman knew he was 'stuck' as long as Trump was in the Whitehouse. Also, he would have probably been reassigned to some non significant post overseas.

Response by CPT Timothy Hernandez made Jul 31 at 2021 8:22 AM

2021-07-31T08:22:48-04:00

LTC Vindman’s actions were a clear violation of article 88 of the UCMJ. To be clear, his testimony was subpoenaed by congress. It was lawful for him to testify. In my opinion, as an active duty officer he should have made such testimony closed door, in order to preserve the image of a military that is still apolitical, professional, and committed to upholding the UCMJ.

His actions with regard to making press releases through his lawyer to the media, that contained contemptuous remarks and allegations against a sitting President, is an egregious violation of article 88. Your lawyer is your representative and speaks on your behalf. If a lawyer makes a statement that you disapprove of than it is your obligation to publicly denounce the statement made. LTC Vindman made no such rebuke of his lawyers contemptuous remarks against President Trump, therefore, the only rational conclusion is that those remarks had LTC Vindman’s approval.

That being said, officers who violate article 88 of the UCMJ are typically not promoted, and if qualified for retirement, asked to retire. Their active duty careers are essentially ended. This is what happened with LTC Vindman, although he tried to paint this action as retribution from President Trump, with public statements to the media asserting such speculation (yet another violation of article 88).

I believe our Chief of Staff of the Army should have publicly condemned LTC Vindman’s continued violations of article 88, and made clear the fact that LTC Vindman’s public statements to the media were violations of article 88, and that his lack of promotion and retirement were the consequences of those violations, as well as routine punishment for violating article 88. Leaving people to speculate on the situation was another slight against President Trump, and an act of disloyalty to the President.

In this day and age where bureaucrats bend and break laws with little to no consequence, in order to advance their political agenda, we need to preserve the dignity and trust the people have placed in what should be selfless servants in uniform. Our officers and NCOs have failed in the last administration to do that, and many people flew under the radar because they had top cover from capital hill. We can be better than this, we have to be better than this, or we will lose the trust of the people.

Response by SFC Benjamin Varlese made Aug 5 at 2021 12:49 PM

2021-08-05T12:49:31-04:00

As I had hypothesized, Vindman was indeed the "whistleblower" who initiated the first impeachment political kabuki theater. This revelation in his self-aggrandizing book should, in a perfect world, come with a myriad of consequences both under federal law and the UCMJ. He knowingly lied to Congress, conspired with others to do so, violated DoD policies and lawful orders of the officers appointed above him, and all the accompanying subordinate charges such as attempts. All of this over an officer serving at the pleasure of the President having a policy disagreement he was not in a position to have. Those who have supported this disgraceful individual should take a good hard look at who they think should be representing the U.S. military, and whether they themselves suborn this kind of abhorrent and toxic behaviors.

Response by LTC Ken Bowers made Aug 6 at 2021 2:59 PM

2021-08-06T14:59:15-04:00

Court martial reduce to 2LT and retire at 2LT pay.

Response by Cpl Bill Johnson made Aug 28 at 2021 8:53 AM

2021-08-28T08:53:52-04:00

Congratulations on finishing a successful career. No one can doubt his resolution to do what he thought was right. What he did took courage. Full stop.