Posted on Jan 16, 2015
SPC(P) Jay Heenan
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I get it, we currently have a much better understanding of PTSD than we did during the Vietnam. Does this mean he should get a 'pass'? What say you RallyPoint?




http://www.armytimes.com/story/veterans/2015/01/13/ptsd-vietnam-veteran-death-penalty-brannan/21702373/
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MSG Intermediate Care Technician
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Funny and ironic you should ask this. I, as a veteran of some certain areas of engagement, do have PTSD. I have my anger issues. I am also actively in therapy getting help. My therapist highly recommended a book that I am now reading. That book is "The Subtle Art of Not Giving A Fuck." Great book. In that book, one of the things the author talks about is At Fault and Responsibility. For example, when driving if someone cuts you off in traffic and almost causes a wreck, who is at fault? You or the driver that cut you off? Now, the other question the author asks is who is responsible for your reactions to being cut off? While the driver is at fault, it is you that is responsible for how you respond. The book talks about that there are times when you aren't at fault but responsible, but there are a few times where you are at fault AND responsible.

Now, having to find a different link to the story because the one you posted didn't work....Mr. Brennan was both at fault and responsible. So, in essence, NO. Mr. Brennan should NOT have gotten a "pass." Speeding in excess of 100mph. Letting himself lose his temper. Prodding the cop. And then retrieving a weapon. Shoots the cop 9 times then walks up, reloads and executes a kill shot at close range. Mr. Brennan deserved to be executed for his actions. But, that is just my opinion. Could he have sought out therapy and treatment? Sure. Did he? The article doesn't say. Should he have received a mental evaluation? Sure. Did he? I don't know because, again, the article didn't say. So, based on what I was able to read...No, Mr. Brennan should not have received a "pass."

https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/checkpoint/wp/2015/01/13/vietnam-veteran-andrew-brannan-executed-for-murder-after-ptsd-defense-fails/
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MAJ Byron Oyler
MAJ Byron Oyler
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I think I will buy that book.
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MSG Intermediate Care Technician
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MAJ Byron Oyler it's been a great eye opener for me. My therapist says it will be my Bible
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SFC Michael Hasbun
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Absolutely not. To suggest that PTSD is an excuse for criminal behavior is an insult to the hundreds of thousands of PTSD sufferers going through life every day, doing their best, and not using their issues as an excuse to be a piece of shit.
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