Joshua Waddell, a first lieutenant in the U.S. Marines, appeared on his way to a stellar career as an American military officer. The son of a retired Navy SEAL commander, Waddell was awarded a Bronze Star during his first tour of duty in Afghanistan and had returned for a second.
Then he made a decision in combat that military experts say has severely jeopardized his future in the corps.
via Marine’s career threatened by controversial rules of engagement | Washington Examiner.
Once again, we’re seeing the disconnect from the realities of conflict. The upper echelons of the military establishment, in response to political pressure (foreign and domestic) have made the job of the warrior on the front line virtually impossible.
My concern isn’t that a promising young officer has seen his career derailed. My concern is that next time, a young officer will recall this incident, fail to use his best judgment, and Soldiers or Marines will die.
Because he killed a tractor.
Yes, you’re right. Next time a Marine might hesitate, and it might end badly.
There seems to be a problem with USMC Lt. Col.s lately. See N. Lex’s post “First Amendment” for another one in full rectal defilade.
Paul L. Quandt
This is the battalion commander being a nutjob. Who ever thought he should be promoted that high?
We shouldn’t expect a country whose populace is slowly decivilizing would not see its military officers affected as well. This is truly pathetic.