Discipinare action will only be taken if they can find some poor private of maybe a sgt. to take the fall. Does no one in a position of power have any since of right and wrong anymore? What have we become to allow this kind of thing to go on?

How is it that “support the troops” has somehow become synonymous with “support the military?” Just this week, we have had GIs writing letters to the editors of military magazines to complain about the unreliability of the M4 assault refiles that they are issued—writing letters to the editor because their superiors in the military bureaucracy are unwilling to listen to them. And now we have conclusive evidence that the military buried the truth about Pat Tillman's death, a horrible reality almost as disgraceful as the plaining failures and incompetence that got him killed in the first place. Was the truth buried in a cynical and grotesque attempt to foster patriotism in this country? Truly I hope so, for I fear there is only one other possibility: the possibility that the generals were afraid that the truth would damage. Let us agree on something: the military primary obligation is not to itself. Soldiers volunteer to fight for their country, not the military. For the career bureaucrats who run the military and do not understand this, career bureaucrats like the nine generals who remained complacent in this cover-up, there are only two options: submit your resignations on Monday or be dismissed by congressional action on Tuesday.

This is a very sad story. I don't suppose the person who sits at the desk where the sign reads the buck stops here has in any way contacted the Tillman family to offer an apology. No, I suppose that would be asking too much.

Sallam wr wb Sir Kieth,,, This is the first war where enemies,you and i can talk direct. This war is like anyhting. Unless you are one of the players you really have no idea what is going on. Just how many of you have to die before you actully do what is right? Of course it is not you dying. every day becuse of amercias false pride,arragance and ignorance good men and women die. for nothing. ass ALL of you spew "free speech" you make damn sure the truth is not told or heard. Pat Tillman was a REAL man and an american. He also had honor. This madness can stop any time. Inshallah. IM in no hurry. However? stop blaming us. And look in the mirror.

C A, Tuscaloosa, AL,Terry, Seattle, WA ,Ben, Tucson, AZ,..thank you Pat Tillman...thank you for your service to our Country. Unfortunately we didn't keep our end of the bargain I am sorry to you and your relatives as a member of this country.To those in this Country being scared into they will run out of bullets and food and money to take care of our troops if this new appropriations bill isn't passed.It's a LIE to scare everyone again.Over and over again for there agendas. You can not teach ethics to folks who have none to begin with with.It is a grave sorrow that Pat and over 3000 like him have died,30,000 have been wounded,at least 500,000 Iraqis down,many more wounded,how many women children?their country destroyed,Afghanistan destroyed, and last but not least under the table with the old sleight of hand for money an unacountable Administration is allowing Our Country being Destroyed and lying to cover it up.Take an Oath to testify...they can't even uphold the one they took to protect the Country when they were Sworn In

Ben, Tucson, AZ - Thank you for sharing your thoughts and words of great wisdom. I agree in full with your last sentence. This is such a sad event, and the family certainly deserved better, and the truth would have been a nice start. It's truly shameful, and my prayers are with the Tillman family.

One of the horrors of war is the deaths by friendly fire. Every war has them. I detest the cover up of Pat Tillman's death in the name of patriotism. Lies and deception are a staple of Bushworld and the military. However, I can only imagine the horror of knowing a soldier killed one of his own. Keith had a video of two pilots awhile ago, who were told to take out a target and suddenly realized the mistake they had made. You could hear the horror, the shock, and the pain in their voices. Those two soldiers will pay the price for being given bad intelligence, for following orders. Plus, they have to live with knowing they killed one of their own. Again, there was a cover up. The military is good at deception. The Generals and politicans need to be held accountable for inventing the current wars. I have heard the soldiers talk about the Pat Tillman death, and the hurt and horror in their eyes and voice stays with you. Of course, some of the same soldiers were also part of the cover up. Some claim they were only following orders. Some just wanted to forget what happened. War is always deplorable because war destroys any sense of humanity. The lies and cover-up just add to the inhumanity. However, I have all the respect in the world for the soldiers in Afghanistan and Iraq. Most of them will return and never be the same, ever. Their pain doesn't replace the lies told to the Tillman family, or the lies told to the family whose son was killed by the pilots. The lies by the military leaders only reinforce the horrors of war, which include friendly fire war after war. The politicans who started the wars need to be held responsible too. The politicans are responsible for the deaths of over 3,200 soldiers. The blood of the soldiers is on the hands of Bush, Chaney, Rumsfeld, Ashcroft, Rice, et. al. I can only imagine what the soldiers experience in the moment of a fire-fight. Then to realize you have killed one of your own, I have no idea how you live with that experience. Punish the people who are responsible for the lies and deceit and war. But have some compassion for the soldiers. I can support the troops, but not Bushworld and Neocon War Machine....

This is tragic news. All of those Army officers guilty of this disgrace and deciet must be dishonorably discharged immediately. I refuse to have my taxpayer dollars be spent on thier bloated retirement pensions and lifetime of healthcare benefits!

Pat Tilman was an honorable man. He gave up his career making lots of money in the NFL to serve his country. For the powers that be in the military to treat his menory and his family in this matter is unexcusable. I agree with Ben about the two options.

Somebody ask Peg Mullins of La Porte City, Iowa, if this isn't Deja Vu all over again.

You may find the following Tillman link even more gut wrenching. Especially if you can entertain for even a minute that it might be true. http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/1547321/posts

I'm fortunate my father has passed on because this latest round of news besmirching soldiers would have induced a meltdown. He was very proud to serve his country and did everything he could to maintain the slightest since of dignity about the armed services but this, along with the abuses at Walter Reed, just goes to show you the ones in charge who have not served their country---perhaps they had other things to do instead and deferred---have the remotest clue what dignity and pride is. Shame on them all.

There has been more Truth said here in a few sentences then all the words out of the Bush Administration since it has been in office.Mr. Medhi I appreciate your comment for it's brilliance. I am gravely saddened by this tragedy made worse for political gain through FEAR.The generals are politically appointed for the most part as I understand so we are in a world of hurt here.There is no accountability for the Oaths any of them swore to uphold.Any of em. Why should the Senate and Legislative Branches be called to have to use their Judicial Powers as well as those of the Judicial Branch for the TRUTH. We were sold a LIE through FEAR that has cause so much harm to all the families in the world affected by this war both directly and indirectly.Pat died,and 3000's,and tens of thousands wounded yep send em All to bunk in all the Walter Reed's we got going here and pretend they don't exist after they're shot to hell, and more wounded.Iraqi,Men,Women,and children killed.Afghanistan killed and on and on and on....We still have prisoners on gitmo for what I do not know.Yes Mr.Medhi we are all prisoners to the man in the mirror as well as you,and when we are really quiet and look sometimes we get a glimpse of the Truth instead of the show they(the Roves,the Dubyas,Cheney's and the rest of the "phony wannabe Texans" have sold this country as to be protected from by FEAR with a LIE.I have no doubt that Osama and his killers pulled off 9/11.I have no doubt our intel guy's weren't paying close enough attention to what was being handed to them by their own people like the FBI lady agent up (MN?).We are great at disregarding our own intel(Pearl Harbor) then listening to "curveballs?"Dummy up a few photographs and go to the UN after having duped General Collin Powell.You can bet,the Cheney,The Condi,The Rover,The Busher, were dancing with Devil that day of Shock and Awe. So Pat we Will Miss You,Ryan we will miss you,Joe we all will miss you,and on and on and on. Now Pat you volunteered and went for what you believed was right but to have you and our family sold a lie by this Administration is just the tip of the lie. Ryan you Joe I put you in here because I wanted to personalize and symbolize all those faces that won't be looking in mirrors in here in Iraq,in Dufar,and throughout the world where there is no attention being paid to life at the expense of wealth,lies,and your deaths.

Anthony Cunningham, Arlington,Va - How true. How sad it is that such a time we are somewhat "glad" are fathers’ are not here to see the very things they treasured town apart as they are now. My father is gone too, and I know he would be horrified and demoralized.

Anthony Cunningham, Arlington,Va - How true. How sad it is that such a time we are somewhat "glad" are fathers’ are not here to see the very things they treasured torn apart as they are now. My father is gone too, and I know he would be horrified and demoralized.

It's very odd for generals to spin a soldier's death in the line of duty in such a manner. I hope they don't limit the investigation to just the military people. Especially since Rummy was the defense secretary then.

This is beyond shameful. Tillman tried to do what he thought was the right thing, and lost his life for it...only to be cruelly exploited in death. It is time for the higher-ups in the military to start paying for it when things like this happen, instead of always the lowest people on the food chain. A fish truly does rot from the head down!

Mehdi, Exiled, America – Please read our posts on this blog, as many Americans are not only sympathetic to you and all other innocent people living in your region that have been affected by George W. Bush, we are HORRIFIED by his actions. I understand your contempt, but please do not blame all Americans, or lump us into a horrible category with the "George W. Bush's Administration". As an American, I am ashamed that the Iraq Invasion began, has continued, and that anything and everything has not been done by the voice of Americans to stop this NOW. I am deeply saddened that innocent people, who could not defend themselves against an unjust invasion, were attacked. I am sorry that the infrastructures in Iraq have been destroyed, along with its' cultural history. I am dismayed that every American is not shouting from their roof tops for the immediate impeachment of George W. Bush. He committed an unforgivable act, and I understand your anger. I can only ask that you don't imply all Americans are guilty for the actions of this horrid man leading this country. For that would be the same as Americans blaming every person of Middle-Eastern decent for the attacks of September 11th. I don't, as that would be deplorable. I ask you for the same courtesy in not blaming every American for what George W. Bush has done over the course of the last six years. He is a nightmare, I know. He is not only responsible for the "bombing” of Iraq; he is responsible for the "bombing" of our civil liberties in the United States. We have ALL been tragically affected by this arrogant liar, whose deplorable actions will affect the world for decades to come. I hope and pray each day, that Americans will rise up and take action to remove him from office NOW!! God Bless You.

This is really sad to say the least and an ongoing chapter of the failed policies of this administration and the sick efforts they are masking to get what they want and it all has to do with money. I feel so bad for this family.

Range week in basic was the coldest winter in 50 years. Even the 82nd cancelled their maneuvers. However, we went ahead and conducted our range week outside. Our drill sgt would begin each briefing by asking, "Alright, who's cold?" At first, we would all raise our hands and he would say, "Who gives a shit. Here is what we are doing tomorrow." It's in that spirit that I say, “Stuff happens.” Friendly fire happens. War is dangerous and people die. I think that today, with all the high-tech in the battlefield, we do a much better job at not killing those we don't want to kill. After all, in WW2 we were carpet bombing entire cities just to destroy a few buildings. Now our killing is much more accurate. But accidents still happen! I feel great sadness for the families of and for the soldiers involved in this tragedy. --- The real crime in this whole spectacle is how the administration, under rumsfeld’s direction I am sure, handled the accidental death of Mr. Tillman. Once again they have done something so disgusting, despicable and un-Jesus-like that no one thought to make a law against it. Once again the bush administration is breaking new ground. Hooah!

I find the expressions here most saddening and yet interesting. All who lament the loss of life and war should be consoled with two things. First, there is future coming when ALL wars will cease. Second, all those asleep in death will be resurrected back to life again. This won't come about as a result of any earthly governments made up of imperfect men or women. As a Theocrat I am not surprised by the corrupt and ineffective governess of man made governments to bring about a peaceful world, while struggling for dominance. The world as we see it today is caught up in the original rebellion. Figure it out people!

JP - Corona, Cali - I don't think that families who lost loved ones based on this war of LIES take comfort in knowing that they will not see their sons or daughters until they die. This INVASTION was based on lies, and there is no excuse for sacrificing life as George W. Bush has. He should have sent and/or encouraged his daughters to serve in Iraq should we buy that crap!!

Pam great reply to Mehdi: I have a friend from Egypt his name is Mounir he's 63 years old, i met him the short while he worked for our company.I don't get to see him much, but when i do i can listen to him for hour's.He's worked in many of the arab country's & said he know's the iraqi people best of all.I saw him recently, & asked him the very question of how do the iraqi people & the people of other arab country's think of the american people, he assured me that most like the american people, that it's our goverment they don't care for, but they realy have hate for the current administrtion. He say's in all country's including this country there are portion's of the population that find it easier to hate than to learn about people who are different than they are.I'm 46 years old & learn alot from talking with him, other's i know that know him think his not all that bright, maybe it's because he speak's 6 languages & writes in three, & they only know one, & it's stupid to see them argue with him, because he's so soft spoken, & never get's mad. Sometimes i'll ask a question & he'll say well Don in the 70's, i say the 1970's & he say's no Don the year 70, he goes that far back & sometimes before to explain the cultur's of that part of the world, & don't get him started about the pyramids of egypt unless you have hour's to listen.I could go on & on talking about my true friend, & i have very few of them, but i'm very lucky to have him as a friend, maybe i'll share more in a later posting.One point i'll like to make before i go is have you ever seen that dumb RedEye show on Fox, i can't believe it's still on, well my point is & i don't know the host name right of hand, but he said on one of his show's who care's what the rest of the world think's about us, is that the message the Fox network want's to send the world! If you can't listen to what other's have to say, even in disagreement than what are how can we learn.

Don, Wow. Cool. Here is a great book about the Middle East. It's a big book but so well written... The Great War for Civilisation: The Conquest of the Middle East, by Robert Fisk. http://www.amazon.com/Great-War-Civilisation-Conquest-Middle/dp/1400075173/ref=pd_bbs_1/104-8254270-0263121?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1174918798&sr=8-1

JW, Chicago Thank's & i will look up the book when time permit's Thank's again DON

JW, I read that book by Fisk a little while ago and was blown away by it. It is a great book, and speaks many many unpopular truths.

Don - Paulina: Love to hear more of what your friend expresses as things develop in the middle east. Your comments about the people of Iraq not disliking the American people but disliking our government brings to mind a story of a group of british boys stranded on an island during WWII. Although having to fend for themselves all went fairly well until the boys divided into two groups with each selecting leaders one of which possessed serious character flaws. And although the boys in each group had nothing against each other, the one leader forced upon these boys a false need of self-preservation at the expense of the other group. A dislike and hatred developed between the two groups that in the end resulted in the death of one of the boys before they were rescued from the island. Some of you may recall the name of this book/story but it is a prime example of how in general people can and could live together peaceably (even with cultural and religious differences). It is when irresponsible leaders are allowed to gain too much power and persuasion over the populace does hatred, war and killing result. Imagine a pre-war Iraq minus Saddam or Bush.

Pat Tillman could have mad millions in NFL but was a hero among heros when he decided to leave the cushey NFL for real battles. It is a disgrace on how he was treated and this is a time to try to console his family, not add salt to a wound.No one can ever soften the blow of bad news but to be so deceitful about it is another thing. Those that hid this from their superiors and Pat Tillman's family should have to forfeit any compensation. No amount of money will being our son's, daughter's, sister's and brothers back from death or the brink of death, it is up to the US governement to better monitor these tough situations but considering the people in charge and their mediocre communication, I dont have the trust I need to see this wont happen again. I guess from now on whenever we hear a football player complaining about his salary and now getting the zillions he wanted, think about Pat Tillman and what he gave up for all of us. No money can bring him back or those that have gone before him.

Don Oubre, Paulina, Louisiana - That's so right on target about Fox News and this HORRID Administration. Not caring about what other people of the world think about us, as a society just blows my mind. I know it matters a great deal to me, and I pray that one day the "world" will forgive this Adminstration's arrogance - as I do believe that some hatred for this Adminstration has sadly transferred to Americans themselves. I have several friends overseas and they cannot understand HOW we, as Americans, have allowed this to continue. They cannot understand the 30% at ALL, and this is one of the greatest tragedies of all; as the majority around the world always loved Americans, just distruted our government. The rest of the world is losing patience with us too, and I find this to be not only very sad, I believe we as a society must act NOW, and do everything to remove this Administration. Our reputation as Americans is deteriorating because of this deplorable Administration.

Oh I agree with you Pam, that is about the War. But lets not stop there Pam, life as we know it in the world today is not what God had in mind. NO human governments for one thing! Having said that, my expression was one of confort to all who sigh about what they see and experience in the world today. Then will come the true and larger Blessing from God according tp His promises.... And one other thing, next time your down on 8th st. san pedro, stop in at A-1 market and say hello to Tony for me. :)

I was a soldier for thirty years, until my recent retirement, and completed four tours in Afghanistan with over 25 yrs in the Special Operations (SO) community. Yes, the death of 'Brother' Tillman was tragic and unfortunate; however as I read through most of these replys they are centered on personal opinions about the country's involvement in the war. Let's stick to topic here. I personally know two of the general officers (Jones and Kensinger) cited in the report and know both to be honerable and respected men. Gary Jones was called in, after the fact by 15 months, to conduct an investigation. He was at the time, the Commanding General of Special Forces Command - the Green Berets. Although capable of doing this function, due to percieved or real conflicts of command pressure, Gary Jones should have been substituted by an Army officer of equal rank outside of the community (SO). Folks will say that it needed to be an operator (SO member), in order to understand the dynamics of the operations involved. Not really, any infantry flag officer could have been substituted. This would have reduced the perceptions that come from in house investigations. That decision would have come from one of two places the Army Chief of Staff (Gen Schomaker) or Special Operations Command (GEN Brown). Jones is cited as not going far enough in his investigation - that may be true, but what was the scope of his investigation. This would have been outlined by the issuing authority, possibly by LTG Kensinger or someone higher. Until I or anyone else sees what his charter was at the time, you can't say he was at fault. Having 'stood before' Jones's desk on occasion, I know that he followed his charter to the letter as a professional Soldier of character. Philip Kensinger was and is an honest and passionate man, who was emotionally tied to his Soldiers. Having known him for 20+ years I can only suggest what might have been going through his mind when he made the decision to not tell the Tillman's just prior to the memorial ceremony. Maybe he was thinking it was the compassionate thing to do at the time. If you asked him now what would he do if given the chance again that moment before the ceremony - he would probably go with his same action for the same reason. I'm not sure I could be the same man of my convictions, given all the recent publicity. I would have probably shouted it from the podium; in order to "cover my #$%" - as the saying goes. But I'm not the same man as Phil Kensinger. His attempt - right or wrong - not bring anymore sorrow at that point in time should be considered. I just thought I'd pass on my opinion on this as opposed to spouting the same rhetoric that comes along with most of these sites.

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