Will the insurrectionist retirees/veterans lose their VA/Service benefits?

SGT Hector Rojas, AIGA, SHA — Sat, 27 Feb 2021 16:20:40 -0500

Since military benefits are lost on day 61 of a criminal conviction, will we finally see the retired and/or separated insurrectionist veterans lose their retirements, GI/9-11 bills, and VA benefits and stop them leeching off a government they wanted to overturn in the first place?

In addition, will we see their respective services follow precedent and subject those retirees to Court Martials, as they are still bound by UCMJ after retirement?

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 27 at 2021 4:53 PM

CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 27 Feb 2021 16:53:23 -0500

It's possible, but they'll be afforded due process.

Response by SSG Brian G. made Feb 27 at 2021 4:57 PM

SSG Brian G. — Sat, 27 Feb 2021 16:57:56 -0500

lol The only retirees bound by UCMJ after retirement are Navy and Marine Corps who have not reached their 30 year mark. They are transferred to Fleet reserve and then upon their 30 year mark are not longer bound or subject to the UCMJ. Army and Air Force Retirees suffer no such obligation and once out are no longer bound or subject to UCMJ.

UCMJ only applies in such cases where the infractions occurred during their time in service.

And no military benefits are not "lost" on day 61. They cease but upon release most can be restored with no penalty

There is also the no small matter of actual conviction. Most of this will be much ado about noting and be plead down misdemeanors with the sentence being time served and a fine with probation. Meaning that their benefits will not even be so much touched if they are getting them.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 27 at 2021 5:12 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 27 Feb 2021 17:12:15 -0500

While there are Supreme Court rulings that provide for certain retirees to be called back to active duty and tried under UCMJ, many retirees do not fall in that category such as Reservists and National Guard retirees.
Among the problems with your statement, if a retiree is charged under the Federal law, they are protected against being called back and charged under UCMJ for the same offense due to double jeopardy rules.
DOJ previously reported that most of the people who broke into Congress are being charged with entering and remaining in a restricted building, not seditious conspiracy or treason.
BTW, the DOJ charged some of the rioters in Portland who attacked the Federal courthouse for seditious conspiracy.

Response by SFC Ralph E Kelley made Feb 27 at 2021 6:57 PM

SFC Ralph E Kelley — Sat, 27 Feb 2021 18:57:17 -0500

Hmmm... So you're a military Retiree that only made SGT E-5. Medical Discharge?

Response by SFC Randy Hellenbrand made Feb 27 at 2021 7:06 PM

SFC Randy Hellenbrand — Sat, 27 Feb 2021 19:06:19 -0500

Nope, they are relieved from duty. So, these traitors will pretty much skate on everything but trespass and stopping congress from doing is job. We all saw what the GOP senate did--TWICE! The only thing I feel they deserve is a long walk on a short plank!!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 27 at 2021 7:48 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 27 Feb 2021 19:48:11 -0500

This was already posted a month ago or so.

If someone is a retired Reservist or Guardsman, they can't touch their retirement.
If someone is retired from active duty, they can be called back to be punished under UCMJ, but it's rarer.

If someone is a veteran and not a retiree (as in they ETSed) that's different. Also - no one has been convicted of a felony yet.

Also: "VA disability compensation payments are reduced if a Veteran is convicted of a felony and imprisoned for more than 60 days. Veterans rated 20 percent or more are limited to the 10 percent disability rate. For a Veteran whose disability rating is 10 percent, the payment is reduced by one-half. Once a Veteran is released from prison, compensation payments may be reinstated based upon the severity of the service connected disability(ies) at that time. Payments are not reduced for recipients participating in work release programs, residing in halfway houses (also known as "residential re-entry centers"), or under community control. The amount of any increased compensation awarded to an incarcerated Veteran that results from other than a statutory rate increase may be subject to reduction due to incarceration."

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 27 at 2021 7:57 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 27 Feb 2021 19:57:45 -0500

The benefits they earned through service? Even those who are veterans who incarcerated get their benefits back after they are out of prison.

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Feb 27 at 2021 9:45 PM

SFC Michael Hasbun — Sat, 27 Feb 2021 21:45:21 -0500

One should hope so, but I doubt it.

Response by SFC Regina Boyd made Feb 27 at 2021 11:12 PM

SFC Regina Boyd — Sat, 27 Feb 2021 23:12:39 -0500

Unless the law changed, you have to be on active duty under Title 10 United States Code for UCMJ jurisdiction to attach.

Response by LTC Patrick Turner made Feb 28 at 2021 12:06 AM

LTC Patrick Turner — Sun, 28 Feb 2021 00:06:00 -0500

They are not insurrectionists. You've bought into the Pelosi narrative. They were not rebels nor trying to destroy our government. Those insurrectionists are the criminal rebels in Minneapolis and Portland, among others, who killed, robbed and burnt down blocks at a time. If these retirees were in violation of participating in a riot then they should be prosecuted.

Response by SN Greg Wright made Feb 28 at 2021 3:45 AM

SN Greg Wright — Sun, 28 Feb 2021 03:45:08 -0500

Lol.

You said 'insurrectionists'.

With a straight face.

LOL!

Response by PO1 John Johnson made Feb 28 at 2021 6:50 AM

PO1 John Johnson — Sun, 28 Feb 2021 06:50:44 -0500

After reading all the comments, I have come to the conclusion that input from a heavy hitter JAG (such as an AD/Retired JAG Officer who has participated in these types of cases) or AD/Retired Military Judge should step in and set the record straight. Too many opinions in this thread are in conflict here.

Response by SGM Art Hudson made Feb 28 at 2021 10:41 AM

SGM Art Hudson — Sun, 28 Feb 2021 10:41:56 -0500

Absolutely they should lose all VA benefits

Response by SSgt Christophe Murphy made Feb 28 at 2021 11:50 AM

SSgt Christophe Murphy — Sun, 28 Feb 2021 11:50:03 -0500

It all depends.

Losing or receiving reduced benefits all depends on the conviction, length of jail time and several other factors. It’s not a binary thing

https://www.benefits.va.gov/persona/veteran-incarcerated.asp

VA.gov | Veterans Affairs

Apply for and manage the VA benefits and services you’ve earned as a Veteran, Servicemember, or family member—like health care, disability, education, and more.

Response by TSgt Matthew Covey made Mar 1 at 2021 11:14 AM

TSgt Matthew Covey — Mon, 01 Mar 2021 11:14:01 -0500

First, I do not consider them "insurrectionists". Law breakers, yes, but "insurrectionists" implies something totally different. I put them on the same plane as the rioter this summer and especially the people who destroyed Government property in Portland and Seattle.
That being said, from what I understand if someone retired or ETSed as an enlisted person, he cannot be called back up for UCMJ punishment when his action was that of a civilian. Since officers resign their positions, I believe they can be called back up only if they acted in official capacity, meaning they represented themselves as being in the military. Additionally, an honorable discharge cannot be changed once one receives the discharge unless said person is found to have committed an offense while he or she served.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Mar 1 at 2021 4:52 PM

Lt Col Jim Coe — Mon, 01 Mar 2021 16:52:28 -0500

You are calling out the people who entered the Capital on 6 Jan 21 as insurrectionists. Insurrection may not be what most of the folks had in mind. There was a riot at the Capital and some people entered the building without appropriate permissions. A few others entered spaces in the Capital to which they did not have authorization. They were possibly trespassing. Some were video-ed destroying Government property. Some threatened or assaulted a law enforcement officers. All in all it was an inappropriately rowdy crowd. They probably scared a lot more people than were actually hurt. Were some of them there to overthrow or at least slow the workings of the US Congress, yes. Were they all there for that purpose, no. Many of the people at the Capital were simply exercising their rights under the First Amendment to the US Constitution, freedom of speech, freedom of assembly, freedom to petition the Government.

Last time I heard it mentioned on the news, over 200 people had been arrested in connection with the riot at the Capital. Some will be charged with crimes; some will not. Some of the people charged may be veterans. Eventually, all of the people charged will have their day in court. Some will be convicted and some won't be. The guy with his feet on Speaker Pelosi's desk might as well plead guilty to trespassing or a similar charge. The folks just walking through the halls of the Capital may get off with no charge, probation, or a fine. After the justice system is done, then further penalties through the VA or DoD might be levied. I think dealing with retired service members is best left to civilian courts. The criminal or civil charges can be easily handled in those venues. There's no reason I can see for the DoD to drag a retired service member back to active duty so they can be court martialed for a crime that civilian authorities can handle.

Response by SFC Kurt Brunken made Mar 2 at 2021 8:27 AM

SFC Kurt Brunken — Tue, 02 Mar 2021 08:27:08 -0500

Makes my skin crawl to hear that term. The protestors on Jan 6th were not insurrectionists, they had zero chance of overthrowing the govt. Thats not how our govt works, he who sits in the capital doesn't become king.

Response by SFC Kurt Brunken made Mar 2 at 2021 8:30 AM

SFC Kurt Brunken — Tue, 02 Mar 2021 08:30:20 -0500

SGT Rojas, Everytime one votes we are attempting to change the government, I would not consider protesting any different. I would suggest a few less MSNBC sessions and a few more Steven Crowder viewings.

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Mar 2 at 2021 7:13 PM

SSG Edward Tilton — Tue, 02 Mar 2021 19:13:25 -0500

Certainly should, Treason is Treason. Saying you area patriot doesn’t make you one

Response by SFC Cheryl McElroy US ARMY (RET) made Mar 4 at 2021 12:23 PM

SFC Cheryl McElroy US ARMY (RET) — Thu, 04 Mar 2021 12:23:39 -0500

Jesus Christ. You should be more concerned over the Antifa/BLM mob and the Dems who use the 6 January protest as an excuse to turn D.C. into an armed fortress against We the People.

Response by CPL Freddie Evans made Mar 5 at 2021 8:51 AM

CPL Freddie Evans — Fri, 05 Mar 2021 08:51:54 -0500

Drinking the kool-aid? They have not been charged as nor should they be considered insurrectionist. They protested with the intent to disrupt not overthrow. It is the corrupt politicians and the socialist minority of people who want you to believe the lie to remain cowering in a corner waiting for the government to protect you. Maybe you should remember how the government protected Minneapolis, Kenosha, Seattle, Portland, Atlanta.

Response by PO3 Terry Lee made Mar 5 at 2021 1:58 PM

PO3 Terry Lee — Fri, 05 Mar 2021 13:58:42 -0500

To the best of my knowledge, those that are convicted of a 1st degree felony would be.

Response by GySgt Kenneth Pepper made Mar 5 at 2021 4:05 PM

GySgt Kenneth Pepper — Fri, 05 Mar 2021 16:05:36 -0500

It looked more like a block party than an insurrection. More damage is done every year following a Superbowl/World Series/Stanley Cup win than this little upheaval. Too many clowns with viking helmets for me to take it seriously. Those assholes in Portland and Seattle did a whole lot better job.
If the intention was to lay siege, none of them looked very prepared for the long haul. I think most just wanted to take a selfie in front of Old Nancy's office.

****I know, I know....people died. The loss of any individual life is tragic.

Response by SSG Eric Blue made Mar 5 at 2021 4:20 PM

SSG Eric Blue — Fri, 05 Mar 2021 16:20:30 -0500

We'll see. Lots of their enablers are still in the ranks or in places of influence to where things may get thrown out or overlooked, depending on the person.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 6 at 2021 6:36 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 06 Mar 2021 06:36:26 -0500

There were no insurrectionists period. The TERRORISTS, the demoncrats are the ones that should be losing everything for their treason and terrorism. They paid for the shit that happened and its them naming things WRONGLY just like they did on covid and their High treason there. NO Vet should be losing anything period. Demoncrats in office and BLM and ANTIFA are the ones that should be convicted of theie High Treason with staffs and Terrorism and HATE Crimes.

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Mar 6 at 2021 7:15 AM

SSG Edward Tilton — Sat, 06 Mar 2021 07:15:52 -0500

Those incidents are irrelevant to the insurrection. They did not interfere with the function of the Constitutional Government. They are just part of anattempt to cloud the Treason f Jan6th

Response by PO1 Ted Woitazek made Mar 6 at 2021 12:16 PM

PO1 Ted Woitazek — Sat, 06 Mar 2021 12:16:15 -0500

Set Rojas, do you know all the details relating to what actually happened. You make a statement about veterans and Retirees, can you prove beyond a reasonable doubt specific individuals are guilty? Also, are you going to hold EVERYONE accountable, which includes police and individuals that opened doors and stepped aside as people entered the building.

Response by SMSgt Bob Wilson made Mar 6 at 2021 5:28 PM

SMSgt Bob Wilson — Sat, 06 Mar 2021 17:28:05 -0500

With the past and present Congress and Senate who want to socialize and turn the US into a Communist state where only the "Progressives" have power the answer would be yes. However, the Veteran/Retiree should not lose any benefits. They earned them. Wait a minute, what benefits? Traveling 100 miles to a VA hospital who is treating you for something a local hospital can do? Providing exchange and commissary benefits to retirees--heck, Walmart is cheaper. Providing "free medical" care to the retiree and spouse? Providing a check to the retiree what they must pay federal income tax on.

Response by CDR Phillip Jones made Mar 6 at 2021 8:55 PM

CDR Phillip Jones — Sat, 06 Mar 2021 20:55:20 -0500

lets hope so Traitors.

Response by MSG Jeremy Jiron made Mar 6 at 2021 11:16 PM

MSG Jeremy Jiron — Sat, 06 Mar 2021 23:16:43 -0500

They are innocent until convicted by a trial of their peers. This still is America, and some of you need to re-read your oath.

Response by CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 7 at 2021 5:10 PM

CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 07 Mar 2021 17:10:09 -0500

It appears that there weren't any.

Response by CAPT Edward Schmitt made Mar 7 at 2021 5:43 PM

CAPT Edward Schmitt — Sun, 07 Mar 2021 17:43:34 -0500

What a bogus and insulting question. Those people went overboard but they did NOT want to overthrow the constitution or government. They mistakenly thought they were overthrowing fraudulent voting

Response by 1SG James Kelly made Mar 8 at 2021 7:20 AM

1SG James Kelly — Mon, 08 Mar 2021 07:20:40 -0500

No; swore to defend The Constitution not a bunch of crooked politicians.

Response by SSG John Hale made Mar 8 at 2021 9:55 AM

SSG John Hale — Mon, 08 Mar 2021 09:55:38 -0500

If convicted and institutionalized the benefits will stop on the 61st day unless there is a family member. If there is a family member such as a wife or husband or child that the V.A. s paying the vet for then there is apportionment for them until the vet is known to the V.A. as being released from confinement.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 8 at 2021 12:14 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 08 Mar 2021 12:14:21 -0500

Why would you post something clearly politically motivated on these forums? The specific words you used highlight your views in particular. This is not professional by any means.

Response by LTC Joe Anderson made Mar 8 at 2021 1:50 PM

LTC Joe Anderson — Mon, 08 Mar 2021 13:50:01 -0500

FYI - Military personnel can be recalled to serve active duty if needed. If they fall under Category I: Nondisabled military retirees under the age of 60 who have been retired less than five years. This category is disposed to be recalled during times of war, national emergency, or “needs of the service”. IF the retiree isn't in the retired reserve, been retried for over 5 years, over 60, or retired under Tittle 32 they are not subject to recall or the UCMJ. Our service isn't for life. Thus neither is the Jurisdiction of the UCMJ.

If a Vets convicted, can a Veteran Receive Retired Military Pay While In Prison?
Generally, yes. Being convicted of a crime almost never jeopardizes a federal pension – the rare exception to this rule are charges relating to criminal disloyalty to the United States: espionage, treason, sabotage, etc. Therefore, retirement pay could continue. Military retirement pay is not automatically stopped for incarceration AFTER retirement. According to the Hiss Act, as amended in 1961, only convictions (after retirement) for "crimes of national security" could lose retirement pay or benefits. So far the charges range from conspiracy, civil disorder, obstruction of an official proceeding, knowingly entering or remaining in a restricted building or grounds without lawful authority, disorderly conduct, vandalism, trespassing, theft, and destruction of property. So at this time their benefits are safe. Anyone who does get changed with insurrection may have their benefits at risk. But read the insurrection act. There are some criteria elements of the crime that must be met to be charged and tried. Probably why no one has been charged with insurrection so far. While I don't agree with those who entered the building I don't see where it meets the legal definition of insurrection. I agree with the charges filed to date of vandalism, trespassing, theft, and destruction of property.

Can A Veteran Receive VA Benefits While In Prison?
VA can pay certain benefits to veterans who are incarcerated in a Federal, state or local penal institution. However, the amount they can pay depends on the type of benefit and reason for incarceration. Your monthly payment will be reduced beginning with the 61st day of your imprisonment for a felony. If your disability payment before you went to prison was based on a rating of 20% disabled or higher your new payment will be based on the 10% disability rating. If you were receiving disability at the 10% disability rate your new payment will be cut in half. If you are imprisoned in a Federal, State or local penal institution as the result of conviction of a felony or misdemeanor, such pension payment will be discontinued effective on the 61st day of imprisonment following conviction.

https://www.military.com/benefits/veteran-benefits/incarcerated-veterans.html

Incarcerated Veterans

The following is a summary of how imprisonment affects veterans benefits.

Response by PFC Andrew "Tommy" M. made Mar 8 at 2021 3:40 PM

PFC Andrew "Tommy" M. — Mon, 08 Mar 2021 15:40:10 -0500

I'm just going to leave this quote here for Sgt. Rojas
Mark Twain ~ "Better to remain silent & thought a fool than to open one's mouth & remove all doubt."

Response by MSG Clyde Mills made Mar 8 at 2021 7:06 PM

MSG Clyde Mills — Mon, 08 Mar 2021 19:06:11 -0500

Like I said follow the link I provided and it will show and tell you all the information you seek about the so called questions your asking about Retirees after they Retire and how the UCMJ effects them once they retire. Plain and simple you didn’t do your homework before you made the First Initial Post and Question regarding this matter and it shows. Your lack of Military knowledge from the get go and without having the correct knowledge and Correct Regulations to back up what your posting, sorry but your credibility has sailed off into the wild blue yonder, like a hot air filled balloon.

Response by Cpl Michael Brewer made Mar 8 at 2021 8:07 PM

Cpl Michael Brewer — Mon, 08 Mar 2021 20:07:09 -0500

I guess it is called Karma. Or hypocrisy with a tail.

Response by SGT William Jackson made Mar 9 at 2021 6:23 AM

SGT William Jackson — Tue, 09 Mar 2021 06:23:20 -0500

Hell no, that is a contract you made with stipulation that you both have to keep. No Vet should ever lose his or her benefits, period! It matters not what you do now it only matters that you served and did your job! What you do in private life matters not!

Response by GySgt Kenneth Pepper made Mar 9 at 2021 2:08 PM

GySgt Kenneth Pepper — Tue, 09 Mar 2021 14:08:00 -0500

What if those "insurrectionist veterans" were planted there from the inside to observe and gather information?
Let the conspiracy theories begin!!!!

Response by LTC Joe Anderson made Mar 11 at 2021 1:16 PM

LTC Joe Anderson — Thu, 11 Mar 2021 13:16:25 -0500

To date here is what has been charged in relations to Jan 6th: 0 Weapons Charges, 0 insurrection Chargers, and 0 Conspiracy to Overthrow the Government or related charges... On average charges range from Knowingly entering or remaining in any restricted building, to; violent entry and disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds; knowingly engaging in disorderly or disruptive conduct in a restricted building; Obstruction of law enforcement during civil disorder; obstruction of justice/Congress...

So far, NO charges like sedition or insurrection have been filed. No charges have been filed that could possibly have a VET recalled to active duty to face UCMJ charges. Any member of the Active-Duty Component arrested could face administrative action and/or UCMJ charges depending on any crimes they are charged with. Having said that I have not seen any Charges filed against Active-Duty Component members. Simple being outside the capitol building isn't grounds for UCMJ. There was one Guardsman arrested. However, he's Tittle 32. Good luck recalling him to active duty for UCMJ (Look up Title 32 Applications and Restrictions to UCMJ and you will see why.).

https://www.usatoday.com/storytelling/capitol-riot-mob-arrests/

January 6 Capitol Riot Arrests

See who has been arrested in the Capitol riots. USA TODAY is gathering the latest as prosecutors continue to issue charges.

Response by SPC Clint Miller made Mar 11 at 2021 1:33 PM

SPC Clint Miller — Thu, 11 Mar 2021 13:33:18 -0500

Jan. 6 insurrection? Quit the nonsense and the false Democratic talking points. The protestors on Jan. 6 were there protesting the voter fraud that took place in the 2020 election and the MEDIA and Democrats spun it into an insurrection to overthrow the government.
Jan. 6 was nothing more than a protest with a couple hundred protestors out of the 100,000+ attendees that ended up trespassing into unauthorized areas on the capital grounds.
I am FAR MORE CONCERNED how the democrats have used Jan. 6 to call up military action in D.C. and put the entire city into a military state lockdown. We the people need to be outraged and demand that the military and barbed wire walls be removed.

Response by PVT Mark Whitcomb made Mar 11 at 2021 1:48 PM

PVT Mark Whitcomb — Thu, 11 Mar 2021 13:48:09 -0500

I believe the word insurrectionist is a stretch. They were not armed. They were demonstrating their frustrations. Which they have a right to do. To be honest I think the crowd mentality took over. As it did in the riots. The fact that the riots affected mostly American citizens, who had their businesses destroyed and you saw no action taken by elected officials except to defund the law enforcement tells you all you need to know.

Response by TSgt Larry Cohen made Mar 12 at 2021 10:59 PM

TSgt Larry Cohen — Fri, 12 Mar 2021 22:59:53 -0500

Just because they are retired gi's and they went into the Capitol that doesn't mean they were insurrectionists. The ones that did damage, were antifa, I knew one of the people there and she told me more than msm has released. Mom, is playing the pelosi mantra.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 14 at 2021 9:15 AM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 14 Mar 2021 09:15:10 -0400

You are a disgrace. Those veterans are not "insurrectionists."

Response by PO1 Richard Mecom made Mar 14 at 2021 10:39 PM

PO1 Richard Mecom — Sun, 14 Mar 2021 22:39:09 -0400

Has nothing to do with what they have already earned.
It was a rigged election. Every start person knows thar

Response by Sgt Robert Beverly made Mar 23 at 2021 2:20 AM

Sgt Robert Beverly — Tue, 23 Mar 2021 02:20:33 -0400

Every one of the 6 Jan. 2021 traitors should loose all their benefits. A bunch of right wing racist traitors trying to overthrow a verified lawful election and install a racist fascist dictator that belongs in prison. They deserve nothing but scorn and jail. Keep GitMo open for those that really belong there.

As far as the 2020 BLM demonstrations, most of the problems were started by the police not the peaceful protesters. BLM protesters were patriots exercising their Constitutional rights. As a former LEO I state the police were out of line. I was in communication with a former Vietnam medic during the demonstrations in Oregon, an eye witness with many photographs. Were there bad actors yes, but in general the protests were peaceful until vamped upon by the cops. Two completely different situations.

Response by Lt Col Steve Bonning made Apr 4 at 2021 4:26 PM

Lt Col Steve Bonning — Sun, 04 Apr 2021 16:26:18 -0400

Insurrectionists? You're buying into the Dems/MSM agenda. We're the militia at Concord Hill insurrectionists? How about the The Red Summer of 1919 or The Battle Of Athens (Georgia) in 1946. Were they insurrectionists? Study history to see how any action against a government is called insurrection, regardless of how corrupt that government is

Response by Capt Chris McVeigh made Apr 4 at 2021 9:35 PM

Capt Chris McVeigh — Sun, 04 Apr 2021 21:35:16 -0400

This thread is apparantly full of people who fully support the storming of the federal government in opposition to the democratic process.

Tons of references trying to draw parallels to other protests that had no relation to the continued legitimacy of our country.

You can be opposed to other protests/riots for whatever your reason is. But you 100% cannot both support America as the democratic country it was founded to be and support what happened on January 6th.

Response by Sgt Joe Tessari made Apr 5 at 2021 11:49 AM

Sgt Joe Tessari — Mon, 05 Apr 2021 11:49:10 -0400

No.

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Apr 19 at 2021 7:34 AM

SFC Michael Hasbun — Mon, 19 Apr 2021 07:34:19 -0400

I think my favorite part of this thread is how the DOD says it's hard to root out extremists in the military, but meanwhile you can easily come on this thread and easily identify tons of extremists sympathizing with the domestic terrorists who attempted coup at the capital.

Hey DOD, I found a bunch for you!

Response by SFC Craig Titzkowski made Apr 24 at 2021 9:56 PM

SFC Craig Titzkowski — Sat, 24 Apr 2021 21:56:37 -0400

Before I charge on Retiree or Soldier that served and take away things they have earned by risking his or her life. I would expect every protester that broke a law or took something when peacefully protesting the winter spring and summer of 2021 be charged with their charges then after that has been dealt with. We get around to what happened on Jan 6th 2021. That should take until about 2119 with the way the courts work. Take care of the root cause first then go after the after effects. Soldiers have rights and they deserve benefit of the dough also the events of Jan 6th are heavily over rated. Really a bunch of yahoo's taking pictures of them selves with capital police that escorted them into the capital is an insurrection. I want to know who shot the Airman and what threat did she pose and how come no one is upset.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made May 7 at 2021 1:08 AM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 07 May 2021 01:08:40 -0400

There may be a few challenges in any legal charge that the Jan 6th protesters committed 'insurrection.' First and foremost was a decision by Congress not to protect the Capitol building against recommendations by DC and Capitol police. Second, with the exception of those who broke a window to gain entry, there was no forced entry. In fact, most were escorted and the media documented the entrance and activities inside the Capitol. Third, if the individuals were trespassing, then the police had a duty to inform everyone that they were trespassing and would be arrested for trespassing, if they did not voluntarily leave (this was not done). Fourth, the First Amendment gives every citizen a 'right of redress,' 'freedom of expression,' and 'freedom of assembly.' For those, who did not create damage (breaking and entering or vandalism), they will exert their rights of redress. Fifth, insurrection requires a desire to overthrow the government. Given that most people peacefully departed the Capitol and made no demands beyond a demand to be heard, then there was no insurrection.

Of course, everything above assumes the Constitution remains valid and our laws are being applied equally. There are some signs that this may not be the case. When a President declares that 'no amendment is absolute,' he is in conflict with over 200 years of Supreme Court rulings that the Bill of Rights are absolute. When a former Secretary of State has been accused of passing intelligence about allied operations to a foreign adversary and there is no investigation, then treason is considered acceptable. When storing and transmitting classified information on a personal email server is not considered an unlawful act by a former Senator and Secretary of State but a felony by a member of the military, then justice is not equal. When evidence of the President's son has committed crimes of extortion, pay to play, child pornography, drug use and other crimes is provided to the FBI and no investigation is performed, then maybe justice is not equal. So, there is a chance that despite our laws and Constitution, anyone in Washington DC on Jan 6th, who is a Conservative, who supported President Trump and believes that current and former members of our government are operating a corrupt enterprise can be charged and convicted of crimes because there are no more checks and balances on our government.

Finally, when politics dictates how the UCMJ is applied, we will have lost the greatest military known to man and become nothing more than a banana republic. Just my 2-cents.

Response by TSgt Jeff Milges made May 13 at 2021 11:39 AM

TSgt Jeff Milges — Thu, 13 May 2021 11:39:28 -0400

Leeching? Most of my response would have started with the F word.

Response by SPC Chris Ison made May 13 at 2021 8:09 PM

SPC Chris Ison — Thu, 13 May 2021 20:09:27 -0400

If convicted, and while in prison, they will lose their benefits yes. As far as recalling them to active duty to court martial them, i think double jeopardy would be attached. You would need to activate them and court martial them first.

Response by MSgt James Goodall made May 13 at 2021 10:14 PM

MSgt James Goodall — Thu, 13 May 2021 22:14:45 -0400

A retiree is not subject to UCMJ after they are retired. It's just like you can't impeach the President once he's out of office. But if this is good for a military retiree, it should also be for anyone on government assistance, such as welfare, SSDI, unemployment, and elected person or an employee of the federal government, and so on.
MSgt USAF (ret)

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 13 at 2021 11:33 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 13 May 2021 23:33:55 -0400

Wow!! All I can do is shake my head and say, “this is one of those times you should have stopped, thought about what your going to say and realized probably not the smartest thing to do.” To late for that now though, but congratulations on making yourself appear uneducated.

Response by PO2 David McNamara made May 14 at 2021 2:47 AM

PO2 David McNamara — Fri, 14 May 2021 02:47:33 -0400

I would like to know if you are referring to people who were waved into the Capitol Building by police as being insurrectionists? Anyone creating a disturbance was filmed, and they were called out by the recording bystanders, and other witnesses, as being antifa. Are any retirees/veterans belonging to antifa? Colluding with antifa would be treason; I would hope retirees/veterans wouldn't do that. When the Capitol Police are waving citizens to go inside are they taking a tour (hoping to voice their opinion) or are they engaging in an insurrection?

Response by SMSgt Gerald Goertz made May 14 at 2021 11:52 AM

SMSgt Gerald Goertz — Fri, 14 May 2021 11:52:38 -0400

No bias from you at all. Are they going to hold accountable the Veterans who marched with BLM and Antifa protests burning cities down?

Response by CPL Benjamin Cousins made May 14 at 2021 3:49 PM

CPL Benjamin Cousins — Fri, 14 May 2021 15:49:53 -0400

As a proud Apache ARMT Dawg it is my solemn duty to tell you that you are a disgrace to all Apache crewman as well as Army Aviation as a general whole. You are clearly a traitor to our people, and the only reason you can cop an attitude like this is because you’re in the kinder gentler army. You know damn well that if you had been in when they were still issuing BDU’s you would’ve spent every other day getting balled up.

Response by MSG Thajauna Rhodes made May 14 at 2021 8:48 PM

MSG Thajauna Rhodes — Fri, 14 May 2021 20:48:38 -0400

I hope that they will be striped of all entitlements. They took an oath to support and defend. They did neither. And what about Gen Flynn are they going to get him too? He is a traitor to.

Response by MSgt Tom Parker made May 14 at 2021 10:01 PM

MSgt Tom Parker — Fri, 14 May 2021 22:01:37 -0400

What a crock!!

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made May 14 at 2021 11:30 PM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 14 May 2021 23:30:01 -0400

Let's hope so - on all above!

Response by Wayne Waters made May 15 at 2021 8:52 AM

Wayne Waters — Sat, 15 May 2021 08:52:14 -0400

Very well stated! We need a Reaganesk-like leader in the worst way to take back control of this country! The leftists are killing us.

Response by CMSgt Gassie Orr III made May 15 at 2021 2:36 PM

CMSgt Gassie Orr III — Sat, 15 May 2021 14:36:00 -0400

You only lose VA benefits after 60 days not military retirement

Response by CMSgt Gassie Orr III made May 15 at 2021 2:36 PM

CMSgt Gassie Orr III — Sat, 15 May 2021 14:36:40 -0400

You only lose VA benefits after 60 days not military retirement. But I agree if they are listed as seditionist they should lose any benefits.

Response by CH (CPT) Jerry McGowin made May 15 at 2021 6:39 PM

CH (CPT) Jerry McGowin — Sat, 15 May 2021 18:39:53 -0400

will first off this is silly to call what happened an attempt to over through the country. Political theater at best. Secondly, they likely will face Military code of conduct violations and if convicted, Leavenworth !?

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 16 at 2021 7:21 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 16 May 2021 07:21:14 -0400

Incredible how so many responses are WHAT ABOUT CNN BLM AUNT TEEFA?! Instead of actually staying on topic and answering the question

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 16 at 2021 1:46 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 16 May 2021 13:46:30 -0400

Wow. You can't be serious. An LTC at that. Good thing you obviously retired 50 years ago. You shouldn't be commanding a McDonald's let alone a military unit.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 16 at 2021 1:52 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 16 May 2021 13:52:35 -0400

Yikes! The longer I scroll the worse it gets. A bunch of koolaid drinking Trumpets in here. Please, turn off the OAN and Newsmax and come back to reality.

Response by SSG Robert Perrotto made May 16 at 2021 2:30 PM

SSG Robert Perrotto — Sun, 16 May 2021 14:30:27 -0400

Insurrection is your opinion, not what any of those arrested have been charged with. To answer your question, retiree's. or VA disabled would have to be convicted of a felony, criminal trespass is a misdemeanor, which is what the majority of those arrested have been charged with. None of the rioters murdered anyone, despite what SFC Hellenbrand claims. So - the requirement to lose benefits is felony conviction +61 days of incarceration - re-instated after they are released from jail.

Response by SP5 John Clark made May 16 at 2021 2:32 PM

SP5 John Clark — Sun, 16 May 2021 14:32:43 -0400

If they were active duty they would be subject to UCMJ in addition to state and federal law. If not active they will be subject to State and federal law.

Response by PO2 David Davidson made May 16 at 2021 3:06 PM

PO2 David Davidson — Sun, 16 May 2021 15:06:14 -0400

Please tell us what “insurrectionists” are you referring to?

Response by PO2 Ramon Cintron made May 16 at 2021 7:13 PM

PO2 Ramon Cintron — Sun, 16 May 2021 19:13:16 -0400

They are regardless of anyone's thoughts, criminals!!

Response by PV2 Glen Lewis made May 16 at 2021 7:34 PM

PV2 Glen Lewis — Sun, 16 May 2021 19:34:49 -0400

Regardless of the felony, if they are convicted and incarcerated for over 61 days they will lose a percentage of their benefits. After incarceration they may or may not lose a lesser or greater percentage depending on the severity of the law they broke.
Personal opinion would be that insurrectionist is too severe a term for what was done. I find what what was done to be stupid and disgusting but hardly insurrection. I believe breaking and entering, defacement of government property, theft and assault and battery would cover the crowd's actions. Felonies but not out and out revolt.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made May 16 at 2021 8:43 PM

SGM Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 16 May 2021 20:43:10 -0400

This is obviously click bait, for a guy looking to beef up his profile. The statement is wrong on so many point. 1. Benefits don't stop on day 61 of a "criminal conviction".

Response by LCpl Michael Cappello made May 16 at 2021 9:19 PM

LCpl Michael Cappello — Sun, 16 May 2021 21:19:31 -0400

WTF makes you think those people wanted to or were trying to "overturn" the government ? There were MANY "irregularities" in the voting process. There was clear evidence of malfeasance. They believed that the election was a sham. That there was massive fraud. We took an oath to "Protect and Defend" "Against ALL enemies, both foreign and DOMESTIC . Do you remember taking that oath ? Wouldn't preventing the Socialists / Democrats from cheating / stealing the election fall under that heading ? Shouldn't you be rooting for those who would sacrifice everything to stand up for what they believe in ? Isn't it odd that the NFL will review and replay and make every effort to ensure a fair and accurate call but, the politicians will not ? Particularly with all the problems and blatantly suspect happenings as went on with this (election ???)

Response by AB Edward Mondini made May 17 at 2021 2:13 AM

AB Edward Mondini — Mon, 17 May 2021 02:13:36 -0400

Did any of these “insurrectionists” fire any weapons?

Did shy of these “insurrectionists” take any government workers or Congressmen hostage?

It’s been reported one protestor was shot & killed by an as-yet-to-be-named police officer. One officer died of natural causes and all other deaths were among the Trump supporters of natural causes.

The Jan 6 protesters were exercising their First Amendment rights to redress their grievances. You ought to know what I’m referring to: you yourself too an oath to support and defend the Constitution.

And now, today, you’re dragging our Constitution, that you took an oath to protect, right thru the mud.

Since you’re on the subject of “insurrection”, what are you going to do to seek punishment for those real rioters who trashed downtown Portland, OR……Seattle, WA……..Minneapolis, MN……..New York City………Chicago? You deceitfully neglected to say one peep about those rioters. By any definition, destroying property, killing innocent civilians, looting stores sounds more like an insurrection.

The January 6 MAGA supporters in Washington DC did not riot, destroy property, kill civilians or loot stores.

So who did the real rioting on Jan 6 in Washington DC? Members of the Antifa anarchist group admitted they vandalized the Capitol building and did all the rioting.

Remember John Sullivan? His brother James does. He turned his rioting brother John over to the FBI. But you’re too interested pointing fingers at peaceful Trump supporters to do your research.

On top of that, the DC Police did nothing to stop them. They even had riot police there who just stood there and did nothing.

For you to not mention the real rioters is disingenuous and deceitful.

And to add shame on top of deceit, you’re posting this disgusting blame on peaceful MAGA protesters without even a single shred of evidence.

Response by CW3 Michael Schroer made May 17 at 2021 8:50 AM

CW3 Michael Schroer — Mon, 17 May 2021 08:50:47 -0400

So, guilty before before proven innocent....Glad you think you live in a dictatorship Sarge!

Response by CAPT Edward Schmitt made May 17 at 2021 11:26 AM

CAPT Edward Schmitt — Mon, 17 May 2021 11:26:00 -0400

Sgt Rojas I just re-read my comments. I apologize for my uncivil tone. You asked a reasonable question and I need to remember to always be respectful to my fellow veterans. I will do better in the future

Response by MSG Stan Hutchison made May 17 at 2021 2:09 PM

MSG Stan Hutchison — Mon, 17 May 2021 14:09:09 -0400

The responses here show a long list of those that bought into Trump's Big Lie!
How sad for our republic.

Response by MSgt Thomas O'Rourke made May 17 at 2021 3:32 PM

MSgt Thomas O'Rourke — Mon, 17 May 2021 15:32:10 -0400

I have not seen any charges other than trespassing filed yet. What about the USAF Vet who was shot through a closed door? Officer Sicknick (one of my fellow NJ ANG members) tragically died from a stroke unrelated to the attack (per the DC coroner). So what are we going to court-martial people for again?

Response by SPC Luther Wooten made May 17 at 2021 6:37 PM

SPC Luther Wooten — Mon, 17 May 2021 18:37:03 -0400

Why wish the worst for fellow veterans. Do you want to see them crushed? It was a protest that became a violent protest not an insurrection as most were unarmed. How do you try to overthrow a government without the force of arms? Just because a handful of idiots in Congress declares it so don't make it true. The worst they can realistically be charged with is trespassing. The veterans who were in D.C. on the 6th have a right to protest and let their voices be heard. They don't have a right to be violent anymore than BLM has the right to riot and burn down cities. You can hate the federal beauracracy while still loving this country and the constitution. Our present government has moved so far from the constitutional law of the land you can't even recognize our country as a constitutional republic.

Response by CPO Scott Langhoff made May 17 at 2021 7:21 PM

CPO Scott Langhoff — Mon, 17 May 2021 19:21:44 -0400

LMAO! You’d better read “ Irresistible Revolution: Marxism's Goal of Conquest & the Unmaking of the American Military” by Matthew Lohmeier. You might learn something. Quit drinking the liberal Kool-Aid and learn the facts.

And don’t forget to report me to your “Kommissar”.

Response by SGT Joseph Dutton made May 17 at 2021 9:27 PM

SGT Joseph Dutton — Mon, 17 May 2021 21:27:56 -0400

If any Veteran or retiree is convicted of any crime they lose all federal governmental benefits they are receiving. VA Compensation, All Government Retirement (MIL, CIV SER & RR) & Social Security. Retirees, Active Duty & Reservist can and mot likely will face a Court Martial under the UCMJ. National Guard Members can also be Court Martialed under their States UCMJ as well as The Federal UCMJ. Also all could see trials in civilian courts as well.

Response by CPL Kristopher Gromacki made May 18 at 2021 12:48 AM

CPL Kristopher Gromacki — Tue, 18 May 2021 00:48:21 -0400

Real patriots know this wasn’t an insurrection. This is people tired of watching old, disgusting, gutless politicians who are paid off by China, ruin the country that we would have died for. We are tired of the socialist indoctrination program being taught at schools and subliminally on NBC, CNN, and ABC. Hate isn’t strong enough to describe my feelings towards the fact that the election was stolen right in front of our faces and these weak republicans are too worried about being outed on their own shady business deals to say anything to try and save this country from the army of woke, alphabet people, and illegal aliens. These “leeches” do t lose anything that they earned, don’t worry. Venezuela is looking for new recruits if you would like to go back and report to Maduro on the progress you are making

Response by SSgt G Wingate made May 18 at 2021 5:05 AM

SSgt G Wingate — Tue, 18 May 2021 05:05:19 -0400

Let's see.....maybe!!! I mean just think of the noon if they call them back in under UCMJ and are able to charge them with weight and hair regulation infractions!! Oh goodie goodie a burn a palooza!! ..... get a life dude.

Response by SGT Don Schaffer made May 18 at 2021 6:18 AM

SGT Don Schaffer — Tue, 18 May 2021 06:18:09 -0400

It is a shame that politics has consumed so much of American life.
Before self-important politicans took so much of our lives we used to have so much richer lives.
I am aware that there were trespassers on the Capitol grounds, but deploying more troops then we have in the Middle East and calling it a riot were strictly political acts.
I don't pretend to have a crystal ball, but we are going in a bad direction.
Our Founding Fathers have provided the citizen/sovereigns of this country will the opportunity of freedom, but it is up to each generation to keep it. We have all sworn to uphold the Constitution for this reason.
We need to demand transparency in government and not allow the politicians to seize power from "We the people" from behind high fences and armed guards.

Response by CPL Joseph Elinger made May 18 at 2021 11:55 AM

CPL Joseph Elinger — Tue, 18 May 2021 11:55:46 -0400

Sgt Hector
Did you forget to renew your meds?

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 18 at 2021 2:53 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 18 May 2021 14:53:01 -0400

To quote a person from the Left: “People will do what people will do”.

Response by LTC Charles "Pappy" Patchin made May 18 at 2021 8:31 PM

LTC Charles "Pappy" Patchin — Tue, 18 May 2021 20:31:15 -0400

It is noticeable that the murderer of Ashli Babbitt, USAF Veteran, has not been brought forth nor charged. It appears the "government" has taken lessons from the 1930s German National Socialist Party, The 1930s Soviet Socialist Republics and 1950s Chinese Communist party. Strange how all 3 parties are nationalist, socialist or communist and use media and secret police tactics in the same ways. It is probable the novel 1984 is wonderful to a lot of the modern educated functional morons, also.

Response by SGT Matt Tarvin made May 19 at 2021 6:08 AM

SGT Matt Tarvin — Wed, 19 May 2021 06:08:46 -0400

This is a huge political issue and the highest Brass of all the forces and the Pentagon are political positions whether they want to admit it or not. They will fall in line with the political desires of those in charge to either save or further their careers. It's the law of Supply and Demand. They supplied someone with a position and they demand they act accordingly.

Response by SPC Eric Williams made May 19 at 2021 6:28 PM

SPC Eric Williams — Wed, 19 May 2021 18:28:04 -0400

They are traitors and should be dealt with as such.

Response by SGT Reuben Barrett made May 19 at 2021 7:14 PM

SGT Reuben Barrett — Wed, 19 May 2021 19:14:59 -0400

Response by PO2 Jo Wi made May 19 at 2021 8:48 PM

PO2 Jo Wi — Wed, 19 May 2021 20:48:05 -0400

Well, I won’t say yes or no…but they all made the list of FBI’s “most wanted”.

https://www.fbi.gov/wanted/capitol-violence

Capitol Violence | Federal Bureau of Investigation

The FBI is seeking to identify individuals involved in the violent activities that occurred at the U.S. Capitol and surrounding areas on January 6, 2021. View photos and related information here. If you have any information to provide, visit tips.fbi.gov or call 1-800-CALL-FBI.

Response by SPC Mark Leonard made May 19 at 2021 11:46 PM

SPC Mark Leonard — Wed, 19 May 2021 23:46:24 -0400

Good luck lol. Would be entertaining to watch.

Response by CPO Kurt Baschab made May 20 at 2021 1:21 AM

CPO Kurt Baschab — Thu, 20 May 2021 01:21:30 -0400

Are you Referring to all the Individuals that were Rioting, Looting, Burning, Down Democratic controlled City's and States though out America all though the year 2020?

I mean Seriously, After Watching a Democratic Congress women Maxine Walters going out on National TV and Radio, to tell her Democratic supporters to use Verbal and Physically Violence to run all Republican's officials and Supporters out of the state and country, and to hear no one call her out on her Bull , was just shocking!
the media would just put words in President Trumps mouth, words he never said.
it was just amazing to watch. yet Maxine can use all can of verbal violence to tell her supports to get verbally and Physically violent. to tell them they are not wanted here any more.

so are you referring to the Democratic Supporters who have continue to attacks the Federal Buildings, in Portland Oregon? where the left was trying to burn Judges and Federal Law enforcement officer alive in Portland Organ? or are you referring to the so called non attack on Jan 06, where the only INDIVDUAL SHOT AND KILLED WAS A UNARMED FEMALE PEACEFULL PROTESTER .

where no capital police officer were hurt or harmed,
at the most some slight property damage but not much compared to what the DEMOCRATIC SUPPORTERS HAVE DONE TO THE FEDERAL BUILDINGS IN OTHER DEMOCRTIC CONTROLLED CITY"S & STATES!
NO LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER HAD BRICKS THROWN AT THEM, HAD FIRE BOMBS THROWN AT THEM .
no, it was mostly peaceful from what I seen, but of course the Democratic Party Propaganda machine Told the American People, it was very violent,
this was IRONIC, to watch, the American News media , tell the American public, that a Conservative Protest that is truly mostly peaceful, is violent, but a democratic protest is TRULY VIOLENT, we are told is mostly Peaceful, as we watch them RIOT, LOOT, BURN DOWN A CITY, ATTACK LAW ENFOREMENT OFFICER ,and INNOCENT CITIZENS . I TRULY BELIVE I AM LIVING IN BIZARRO WORLD !

Response by SPC Rob Durling made May 20 at 2021 9:56 AM

SPC Rob Durling — Thu, 20 May 2021 09:56:27 -0400

Maybe they weren’t “insurrectionists”, as many of you point out, and I will likely agree with you. However, if they were participating in events where they trespassed on government property, defaced or damaged said property, made criminal threats against other citizens, assaulted law enforcement and/or other American citizens, then they are certainly...well, something. Criminals at the very least. Much like many of those arrested, charged and prosecuted for their actions in other riots in the past months, the January 6th rioters should face the consequences for their actions. Insurrection? I don’t know about that; riot? Yeah, and that’s against the law.

Response by SSG James Kivel made May 20 at 2021 1:23 PM

SSG James Kivel — Thu, 20 May 2021 13:23:01 -0400

Leave it up to the Romeo's to ask some stupid ass question...

Response by SGT Lenise Hamilton made May 20 at 2021 10:14 PM

SGT Lenise Hamilton — Thu, 20 May 2021 22:14:03 -0400

For all the jack-ass fools that were out there participating in the Jan 6th Circus Event, in my opinion, if charged they should loose all entitlements, and the monthly benefits should go back into the pot for the Gov't LEA's who stuck there necks out to save Gov't Official Representatives, also, in addition, include distributing a portion of the funds to AER. In closing, if you play with fire, expect your "ASS" to get burnt.

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made May 21 at 2021 1:15 PM

SSG Edward Tilton — Fri, 21 May 2021 13:15:22 -0400

The law provides for terminating benefits if convicted. If you plead guilty you are convicted. In some states it also requires a weapons ban

Response by SGT John Peacock made May 21 at 2021 2:13 PM

SGT John Peacock — Fri, 21 May 2021 14:13:22 -0400

Thanks SGT Hector Rojas for helping me identify all those that need to be blocked. Sad that they put their politics over country.

Response by CPO Albert Kennison made May 21 at 2021 8:18 PM

CPO Albert Kennison — Fri, 21 May 2021 20:18:02 -0400

What happened to you are innocent until proven guilty! This is still AMERICA!!!!!!!

Response by LTC Mark Marek made May 22 at 2021 1:33 PM

LTC Mark Marek — Sat, 22 May 2021 13:33:36 -0400

In a word, based on current politics, NO! That said, they MUST be stripped of all rank, benefits, and prestige... they disgraced themselves, the armed services, and their country. Their attack on the seat of government is insurrection & equates to treason. I served 30 years in the US Army, and for these fools to do this infuriates me to no end. For the record, I am not a Demo crate, not an Independent, not a Republican... what I am is a card carrying American Citizen. Period!

Response by SFC Michael Peterson made May 22 at 2021 4:14 PM

SFC Michael Peterson — Sat, 22 May 2021 16:14:08 -0400

You incorrectly call it an “insurrection” when it was a riot. No one I know, would show up to participate in an “insurrection” without weapons and as much ammo as they could carry. I certainly would not.

Response by SGT Doug Blanchard made May 22 at 2021 7:35 PM

SGT Doug Blanchard — Sat, 22 May 2021 19:35:31 -0400

This was far from an insurection. Video, which the lame stream media will not show, shows where the Capitol Police were actually letting many of the protestors into and showing them around the Capitol Building. It is the same police along with the mayor of D.C that refusrs to release the name of the cop that shot and killed Ashlie Babbit that day, who was a fellow Veteran. Also where the lame stream media is pushing the bull s**t where that one officer died from injuries received, the medical examiner released that he died due to a massive stroke. There was no evidence that he was struck in the head with a fire extenguiser or other heavy object as being reported.
You need to quit watching the communist news network, communist broadcast system, msnbc, abc and such. The First Amendment gives the people the RIGHT TO FREE SPEECH, THE RIGHT TO PROTEST, not the right to loot, a.ssault, a.nd burn down businesses and such as what happened in anumber of cities across the country last year and also earlier thus year. It does not give anyone the right to assault others such as what antifa and blm have done.

Response by CPT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made May 23 at 2021 9:56 PM

CPT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 23 May 2021 21:56:47 -0400

If you want to start with the people who flooded the buildings when Kavannaugh was being confirmed...

Response by MSG Harvey Kane made May 23 at 2021 10:00 PM

MSG Harvey Kane — Sun, 23 May 2021 22:00:58 -0400

Agreed. They are not worthy of wearing the uniform nor benefiting from it!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 24 at 2021 12:40 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 24 May 2021 12:40:52 -0400

Yeah all those thousands of insurrectionest that were in body armor and heavily armed?? And the only shot fired was from an anonymous officer killing an unarmed protester?
Guess I’m missing something.

Response by CN Dennis Stender made May 24 at 2021 1:12 PM

CN Dennis Stender — Mon, 24 May 2021 13:12:17 -0400

Wow after reading the following post I was appalled at the blind ignorance of the writer, you took an oath but apparently it meant that only those who agree with your political views are worthy of your protection? Those insurrectionists tried to stop the Democratic process of electing our representatives threatening our Constitution the protests over last summer weren't political but social.

Response by Sgt Peter Schlesiona made May 24 at 2021 3:21 PM

Sgt Peter Schlesiona — Mon, 24 May 2021 15:21:40 -0400

The question lacks ANY understanding of our system of law in that the person who wrote it has all of people involved guilty just because he or she says so.
To that person:
What are YOUR qualifications for defining them as insurrectionists? What did YOU personally witness and what are your legal or law enforcement credentials to make a determination as to the crime supposedly committed?
Fundamentally, where do you come off asking us, based on your personal OPINION, how those folks should be punished even before any charges are specifically made? Go back snd read your Constitution.

Response by SGT Felicia King made May 24 at 2021 7:01 PM

SGT Felicia King — Mon, 24 May 2021 19:01:28 -0400

Pretty sure the only way anyone can lose their VA benefits is if convicted of a felony. Thinking of the one officer in Columbus, Georgia. His daughter was using his GI bill benefits, though he committed suicide just before serving his sentence. Sad story.

Response by Cpl Thomas Washington made May 25 at 2021 4:19 AM

Cpl Thomas Washington — Tue, 25 May 2021 04:19:18 -0400

It’s amazing how we suck-up to lying politicians who admit they purposely delayed assisting the American people because “she” didn’t like or support a legitimate President. Now to shame a Veteran by removing the benefits that was decided they once did earn we rejoice? We are spiritless warriors to Nancy “the rich” Pelosi. She cannot be trusted to do what she was sent to do and we praise her? Sic, sic, sic. I’m not a republican or Democrat, just a wise Vietnam Vet who knows how politics work 1st hand. Semper Fi

Response by SPC Rick Hall made May 26 at 2021 1:15 PM

SPC Rick Hall — Wed, 26 May 2021 13:15:25 -0400

The long list of responses shows a HUGE number of people who bought in to Trumps big lie. A president who doesn’t understand our voting process, i e, absentee/mail in ballot, even though he used that format many times, is the problem. Making unfounded allegations and constantly repeating those allegations doesn’t make them fact. Many states investigated the “stolen election” allegations and did not find any basis of fact of said allegations. Trumps own Attorney General stated that there was NOT enough fraudulent voting that would effect the outcome of the election. I am surprised at the number of “educated” people who have bought into this lie. He lost, move on, there’s another election coming up where we get to exercise our right to vote again.

Response by COL Bill Gross made Jun 14 at 2021 10:53 AM

COL Bill Gross — Mon, 14 Jun 2021 10:53:19 -0400

Were the events of Jan 6th an insurrection? That's the crux of the question.
Here's what the Insurrection Act itself has to say, "Sec. 332. Use of militia and armed forces to enforce Federal authority Whenever the President considers that unlawful obstructions, combinations, or assemblages, or rebellion against the authority of the United States, make it impracticable to enforce the laws of the United States in any State by the ordinary course of judicial proceedings, he may call into Federal service such of the militia of any State, and use such of the armed forces, as he considers necessary to enforce those laws or to suppress the rebellion"

I don't know what charges are being made by the FBI, I know some involve destruction of property etc. The "tourist" who rand through the capitol on Jan 6th did certainly, ". . . make it impracticable to enforce the laws of the United States i. . . " In this case the election laws.

Response by MSG Allan Davis made Jun 21 at 2021 8:15 PM

MSG Allan Davis — Mon, 21 Jun 2021 20:15:24 -0400

Oh do you me insurrectionists that belong to the terror group ANTIFA and BLM? Probably not.

Response by MSgt James Wickman made Jun 28 at 2021 4:03 PM

MSgt James Wickman — Mon, 28 Jun 2021 16:03:40 -0400

no bias here, bought into the liberal mantra. Wonder if you would feel the same for the retirees who participated in the blm/antifa "protests"?

Response by MSG Antwine Marshall made Jun 28 at 2021 6:44 PM

MSG Antwine Marshall — Mon, 28 Jun 2021 18:44:12 -0400

It's sad, and scary, to see so many insurrectionist sympathizers within our ranks.

Response by SSG Robert Velasco made Jun 29 at 2021 4:20 AM

SSG Robert Velasco — Tue, 29 Jun 2021 04:20:25 -0400

This platform is about veterans and active duty members. Many could be dependent or spouses. Any member that joins a militia or tags along to desecrate our constitutional rights and laws are in the wrong and will lose benefits if incarcerated for a felony.

Response by PO2 Leo Markfort made Jun 29 at 2021 7:18 AM

PO2 Leo Markfort — Tue, 29 Jun 2021 07:18:52 -0400

They attempted a coup.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 29 at 2021 2:40 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 29 Jun 2021 14:40:34 -0400

What insurrection?

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 29 at 2021 2:42 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 29 Jun 2021 14:42:01 -0400

Not one person was charged with insurrection! So maybe you’re referring to the mslsd (msdnc) version!

Response by Lt Col William Pollard made Jun 30 at 2021 2:41 PM

Lt Col William Pollard — Wed, 30 Jun 2021 14:41:05 -0400

January 6 was not just a protest, they beat police officers with weapons (don't have to be a knife or gun). Destroyed property and attempted to prevent Congress from verifying the vote. All of that is wrong, punishable just as much as what happened in Portland. No excuses where ex-military, ex policemen or civilians. I served 30 plus, 12 Enlisted (Tsgt) and 18 commissioned (Lt Col). No excuses, Constitution should not be mis-used for personal or political points of view.

Response by SrA Paul Flaherty made Jun 30 at 2021 3:39 PM

SrA Paul Flaherty — Wed, 30 Jun 2021 15:39:00 -0400

This is one of the least intelligent posts/questions I've ever read on this site. And we all know there have been many. But congrats Sgt Rojas, you win the prize!!!! You could have asked the same question in an intelligent way, but you failed. Well, unless you were aiming for the floor, in which you succeeded. The fact that you used the political insurrectionist term, followed by "leeching" and "they wanted to overturn" is all anyone needs to read to realize this is a political post, and not a military question. If you really wanted an answer, just ask the question like: "Hey, do you think any veterans arrested on Jan 6th for storming the capitol will lose their benefits?".

Response by SPC Jesse Davis made Jun 30 at 2021 6:43 PM

SPC Jesse Davis — Wed, 30 Jun 2021 18:43:26 -0400

If they are criminally convicted, then yes. Just like with any other criminal.

Response by LTC Joe Anderson made Jul 1 at 2021 6:46 AM

LTC Joe Anderson — Thu, 01 Jul 2021 06:46:18 -0400

VA Benefits are suspended on the 61st day of incarceration not lost. They're reinstated once veteran has served their time. Convictions do not/will not affect retirees retirement pay at all. For this event you will not see any retirees called back to their service to face court martial. The only people who may face a court martial are those on currently on active duty. The one active guardsman who was arrested will not see a court martial, because used Title 32 ( I'll let you look up Title 32 Laws and Regulations so you can see for yourself some difficulties and hoops the government will have to jump through just to bring this person on orders for an active duty court martial (There's no such thing as Reserve Court Martials)), not gonna happen for this). But they'll all have their day in Federal court to face Federal Charges. So far no one is facing Insurrection charges mostly misdemeanors for, Traspassing, Unlawful Entrie, Distraction of property... a few similar felonies are being charged ( Like the charges against the Shaman) but nothing major or of the nature of insurrection.

The 1st person convicted was a 50 year old lady. She was sentenced for Disorderly Conduct and parading in the capital building and will serve no time other than her pretrial incarceration. So far this is the only person convicted. But, there is more to come. However nothing like what you're wanting to see. Sorry you won't see any Veterans called back to active duty or a grand spectacul of a Special Court Martial... If you're lucky you may hear on one or two for Active Component Members but no Vets or Guardsman. That just the way our legal system works and the UCMJ is written.

We are not "Bound to UCMJ" indefinitely after retirement. Only while we're in the Retired Reserve, or Under age of 60 can we be recalled. If you're under 60 and completed you're retired reserve obligation or you're disabled you are not subject to recall. Like me. I have completed my Retired Reserve obligations, have my final order Stating I'm Retired and NOT subject to recall and am also disabled and cannot be legally recalled for both those reasons. Look it up or scroll up or down. I've posted the law a few times on this thread. I think you'll be disappointed with the convictions you'll see from January 6th riots and protest. One or two MAY see a Felony conviction. But no one will be convicted of insurrection.

Response by A1C Michael Haggerty made Jul 1 at 2021 10:58 AM

A1C Michael Haggerty — Thu, 01 Jul 2021 10:58:35 -0400

I am pretty offended by these fake patriots. Cut them off.