How does everyone feel about PFC Bergdahl? How does one get meritoriously promoted for being a deserter?

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 01 Jun 2014 11:34:35 -0400

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 3 at 2014 10:46 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 03 Mar 2014 10:46:24 -0500

His status is clearly POW and the circumstances of his capture are competely secondary in importance to our duty to exercise whatever options are best to bring him back home safely.  He is an American Soldier in the hands of the Haqqani Network.  That is the most important thing to remember.  We can not forget that.

Response by CW2 Joseph Evans made Mar 3 at 2014 12:30 PM

CW2 Joseph Evans — Mon, 03 Mar 2014 12:30:08 -0500

Until SGT Bowe Bergdahl is back in US custody, what was going through his mind at the time is purely conjecture and opinion. We do not know what caused him to walk off the FOB as his actions were described. Toxic climate, depression, thoughts of suicide by Taliban? Your guess is as good as mine. Regardless, alive or dead, he belongs home, where he can be handled appropriately.

Given the current circumstance of his situation and relations with Afghanistan, I feel a trade to bring him home a reasonable recourse.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 31 at 2014 12:45 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 31 May 2014 12:45:44 -0400

He's been released! Hallelujah!

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made May 31 at 2014 3:08 PM

SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 31 May 2014 15:08:30 -0400

Get him home, give him time to recover and then sort this whole mess out.

Response by SGM Matthew Quick made Jun 1 at 2014 11:35 AM

SGM Matthew Quick — Sun, 01 Jun 2014 11:35:34 -0400

He was 'meritoriously' promoted? Or promoted in line (average) with peers?

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 1 at 2014 11:46 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 01 Jun 2014 11:46:13 -0400

It was explained to me once, and I could be fuzzy on remembering so you'll have to fact check it.

While he was in captivity (wether by his own design or not) while considered a MIA/POW he was promoted in line with his peers. Its based on where he would be if he were an average soldier. I had a training NCO once that had been accused of rape while in Germany and got convicted and did 12 years in prison.

The female eventually recanted her story and admitted that she had lied because her parents had found out and were going to disown her so she claimed rape. The NCO had went in a SPC and came out a SFC, that's how he explained it, that he was promoted as would have been his natural progression...but he could have been BSin me, but he wasn't lying about the whole prison thing. That much was true and verified.

Response by LTC Yinon Weiss made Jun 1 at 2014 2:37 PM

LTC Yinon Weiss — Sun, 01 Jun 2014 14:37:54 -0400

US Prisoners of War are promoted with their peers while held captive. It is not a meritorious promotion.

In Vietnam there were American service members who were held for 5 years or more. As a POW, you are still a service member, still serving your country, and you are supposed to do everything in your capability to still oppose your enemy, who may be attempting to exploit and torture you. You are expected to still honor and enforce the chain of command, even as a POW. You are therefore still serving your country, and as a POW, it makes sense that this service is recognized.

Response by SSG Joshua Locke made Jun 1 at 2014 6:20 PM

SSG Joshua Locke — Sun, 01 Jun 2014 18:20:40 -0400

Im not sure we are getting the whole story. I mean, how does someone just walk off of the installation with a cantene and compass? doesnt make a whole lot of sense to me.

Response by SSG Robert Burns made Jun 1 at 2014 8:49 PM

SSG Robert Burns — Sun, 01 Jun 2014 20:49:18 -0400

Let's get him on Rally Point so he can be back- briefed on all he's missed.

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made Jun 1 at 2014 9:19 PM

PO1 William "Chip" Nagel — Sun, 01 Jun 2014 21:19:28 -0400

His official status was POW and as long as I can remember POWs were advanced on schedule since they are unavailable for testing. A lot of Navy Pilots had a lot higher ranks coming out of POW status in Vietnam then what they had when they were shot down.

Response by SPC Richard Gallardo made Jun 2 at 2014 1:42 AM

SPC Richard Gallardo — Mon, 02 Jun 2014 01:42:43 -0400

It's all smoke and mirrors to take the attention away from the huge VA scandal. And guess what? It worked.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 2 at 2014 8:32 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 02 Jun 2014 08:32:35 -0400

I know this is not directly relatable to the topic, exactly...but I think we have determine how and why he was promoted.

I have noticed something on the news today that was not as evident yesterday: many of his platoon members feel it is neccessary to violate their non-disclosure agreements to characterize his service since they feel that he was a deserter and not worth the six lives lost in attempted recovery missions.

I wonder how this may sway people's opinions. I agree that we need to let the facts come out, and hopefully this will not be one of those "well he did 5 years with the Taliban in capitivity, he has been punished enough" situations. However, if it is found that he really did desert, what should come of it? He is lucky that the Haqqani Network are the ones who found him. They have a history of negotiating for release. The AQ were not so nice to Daniel Pearl, and they are in this AO as well.

I am just curious what the full-story is and what will truly come of it.

Response by Col Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 2 at 2014 11:10 AM

Col Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 02 Jun 2014 11:10:54 -0400

I agree with your assessment. IMHO I think we need to wait for a full investigation to be completed prior to rendering a judgement. Although I must admit, the rumors of what his battle buddies are saying in calling him a deserter are pretty convincing. Also, I am very happy that he is back safe and will soon be with his family. That is number one priority regardless of what has happens. Another thought I have, is I wonder how much intel he provided the taliban, and if he was responsible for any casualties/attacks. This will indeed get interesting.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 2 at 2014 11:21 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 02 Jun 2014 11:21:28 -0400

Im just glad someone actaully stood by "leave no one behind". Now how he got in that situation is up to the Army to figure it out.
Let him come home, decompress, reintergrate, then start trial.
If true he needs to pay for his actions. BTW they need to charge Jessica Lynch too for being a false hero. Just my opinion on that.

Response by SSgt Michael Hacker made Jun 2 at 2014 12:13 PM

SSgt Michael Hacker — Mon, 02 Jun 2014 12:13:43 -0400

I don't have enough information to have an informed/useful opinion. It does, however, say a lot that one U.S. SGT is equivalent to 5 top Taliban thugs on the open exchange market.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 2 at 2014 12:31 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 02 Jun 2014 12:31:30 -0400

"Meritoriously Promoted." I don't even know what that means. Promotions to SPC, SGT and SSG are automatic (based on time and eligibility criteria). While POW status, pay and entitlements continue to NOK, as well as promotions that take effect on standard timeline.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 2 at 2014 12:43 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 02 Jun 2014 12:43:55 -0400

I'm sure I'm not the only one who has caught this but if Bergdahl was a POW should he then not be subject to the death penalty for desertion during a time of war? Something tells me this fact will be overlooked and if he is found to be a deserter, nothing will happen.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 2 at 2014 1:03 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 02 Jun 2014 13:03:25 -0400

The trade was about par for western soldiers. Israel has paid more in the past. I believe a state of war exists between his captors and us therefore this is a prisoner exchange.

I maxed out my down votes and this is why:

Personally I have no desire to know how he was captured. This is about us, service members, until you renounce your citizenship or status in the US Military we will come for you. It is what we do it is who we are. The idea that a smear campaign could prevent us coming to rescue a fellow soldier is corrosive and insulting to every one who wears the uniform.

I have served with people I did not like, I have gone on patrol with people I did not respect. I never for a second would hesitate to risk my life for them and am totally certain the reverse was true. It is who we are, it is what we do. If you want to undermine that kindly go burn your flag elsewhere.

Well that's my opinion, I could be wrong.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 2 at 2014 1:31 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 02 Jun 2014 13:31:04 -0400

I thought we didnt negotiate with terrorist so how was this trade deal even made?

Response by SFC Stephen Carden made Jun 2 at 2014 4:13 PM

SFC Stephen Carden — Mon, 02 Jun 2014 16:13:35 -0400

If I could ask Bergdahl one question right now, it would have to be, "where the hell were you going?" Seriously, he wallks away from his base with a camera, a compass, and a diary. Where did he think he was going to walk to?

LOL, probably planned to walk down to the coast and hop a freighter back to the US. (Yes, I know that Afghanistan is landlocked. That was a joke.)

Response by SSG Jeffrey Spencer made Jun 2 at 2014 7:02 PM

SSG Jeffrey Spencer — Mon, 02 Jun 2014 19:02:14 -0400

How did he get the SGT without going before a board? I don't know anyone that got NCO just for living.

Response by SSG Jeffrey Spencer made Jun 2 at 2014 7:06 PM

SSG Jeffrey Spencer — Mon, 02 Jun 2014 19:06:13 -0400

How did he get the SGT without going before a board? I don't know anyone that got NCO just for living.

At the end of brief event, the soldier’s father, Bob Bergdahl, recited the most frequent phrase in the Koran — “Bismillah ir-Rahman ir-Rahim” —which means “In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Compassionate.”

After Bergdahl finished his statement and his praise for Allah, Obama hugged him.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XeUqBNtWpig

Bergdahl's parents speak at White House

The parents of U.S. Army Sergeant Bowe Bergdahl joined President Obama as they await their son's return.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 2 at 2014 8:16 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 02 Jun 2014 20:16:44 -0400

The main issue is that this has now become political with the Obama Administration being directly involved and not to mention all the positive mass media attention. Is kind of interesting that it happened in the middle of the VA investigation but that is another issue.

I dont need to tell any of you how complicated this will now get now that politicians are involved. Already his hometown and county are planning a welcome home ceremony and his congressman Rep Mike Simpson has put his name out there as well. I just hope that this is not covered up by politics.

Also keep in mind the men in his old platoon all signed non-disclosure agreements about his "disappearance." I personally I spoken to people in his old unit and they all pretty much said the same story. But also keep in mind the toll of blood involved in not only his unit but other units that went looking for him. This is my 2 cents.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 2 at 2014 8:49 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 02 Jun 2014 20:49:11 -0400

I sometimes believe that these decisions are made just to annoy and anger people in the service:

To that end: WHEN I GO TO THE VA, Veterans are helpful to each other and honor each other in spite of this kind of nonsense. I am so happy to see the real world which many administration people do not.

Our families struggle when the Active Member rotates out on deployments, TDYs and short tours. All the garbage is something we have accepted and moved on, but really enough enough.

Response by 1SG David Niles made Jun 2 at 2014 9:15 PM

1SG David Niles — Mon, 02 Jun 2014 21:15:55 -0400

I was at first really upset about him when he first deserted, then I forgot about him for a couple of years. I am glad he is home. I don't want to see him court marshaled, whether he deserted or not, he could not come home, he was not free, he has done his time, discharge him and let him go. As for the promotions when on POW status, they do that by tradition, it was suppose to help the family at home. Why he got it? don't know.

Response by SSG Daniel Deiler made Jun 2 at 2014 10:12 PM

SSG Daniel Deiler — Mon, 02 Jun 2014 22:12:17 -0400

My question is why was the Constitution now followed?

Article II Section 2 - (2nd Paragraph) He (The President) shall have Power, by and with the Advice and Consent of the Senate, to make Treaties, provided two thirds of the Senators present concur..."

It is my understanding that President Obama consulted with members of Congress but it did not go to a vote on the Senate floor. Am I off in right field with this question?

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 2 at 2014 10:32 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 02 Jun 2014 22:32:13 -0400

Treat him like the deserter he is.

Response by Cpl Ray Fernandez made Jun 2 at 2014 11:39 PM

Cpl Ray Fernandez — Mon, 02 Jun 2014 23:39:56 -0400

It's politics as usual. I'm only hoping that some how a larger operation is underway to use these 5 to get the core leadership of the Taliban.

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made Jun 3 at 2014 1:07 AM

SSG (ret) William Martin — Tue, 03 Jun 2014 01:07:43 -0400

I'd like to read the 15-6 investigation when its complete. Then I will form my opinion.

Response by SSG Robin Rushlo made Jun 3 at 2014 12:02 PM

SSG Robin Rushlo — Tue, 03 Jun 2014 12:02:23 -0400

As a VET and loyal to the oath I took He should be taken to trial for being a Deserter and then shot when found guilty. Period. Never should have been a trade.

Response by MSG Martin C. made Jun 3 at 2014 12:12 PM

MSG Martin C. — Tue, 03 Jun 2014 12:12:31 -0400

I think everyone should take a step back and let the offial investigation take it's course. It's all a he and she said at this time, just like in the Pat Tillman case the truth will be revealed. Everyone else should focus on the take away out off this situation and it's knowing your Soldiers and recogniseing possible weakness and signs of something not being right. The little info we do have on this guy shows something was definitely not right with him. As far as the promotion and entitlements everyone is innocent until proven guilty so he recived what any other POW would had and if he is ever is found guilty of whatever charge they bring all will be recoup. Stop speculating and let the facts come out to the light if anything we should petition for the Marine that is detained in Mexico right now if we can exchange terrorist we can definitely bring back one guy from Tijuana.

Response by Maj Joe (Joachim) Jernander made Jun 3 at 2014 12:24 PM

Maj Joe (Joachim) Jernander — Tue, 03 Jun 2014 12:24:40 -0400

Still innocent until proven guilty. I suggest avoiding a rush to judgement and allow investigators to do their jobs and let the chips fall where they may

Response by CMDCM Gene Treants made Jun 3 at 2014 1:40 PM

CMDCM Gene Treants — Tue, 03 Jun 2014 13:40:19 -0400

SGT Tony O. Just a couple of points: First, he has not yet had a trial and been proven to be a Deserter. No matter what we may feel, every person subject to the UCMJ is still supposed to be tried prior to any trial by his peers in a Forum. He was promoted along with his peer group as if her were an average Soldier. BUT that brings me to

Point Two. Are we really at WAR? If we are, who declared it. He is being hailed as a prisoner of war and some on this Forum are suggesting that he is a Deserter and needs to be put to death. I believe we are not at war because the "War on Terror" was never declared by Congress and if not then the UCMJ says that even if he is a deserter and is tried and proven to be a deserter then

"Any person found guilty of desertion or attempt to desert shall be punished, if
the offense is committed in time of war, by death or such other punishment
as a court-martial may direct, but if the desertion or attempt to desert occurs
at any other time, by such punishment, other than death, as a court-martial
may direct.”

So the biggest two questions are Deserter? and War? And promotions seem to be moot.

Response by MSG Brad Sand made Jun 3 at 2014 2:00 PM

MSG Brad Sand — Tue, 03 Jun 2014 14:00:15 -0400

It is nice to learn that one of our soldiers is worth, at least, five of their most hardened combatants? If the PFC/SSG is worth five, how many are you worth?

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 3 at 2014 3:34 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 03 Jun 2014 15:34:20 -0400

Something I've been thinking about on the topic of this prisoner swap - many pesticides and insecticides aren't actually designed to kill immediately upon initial exposure. The point is to have the organism return to the nest carrying deadly particulates. By releasing these guys, it seems a perfect opportunity to monitor them and let them lead us to the nest. Everyone these guys talk to either in person or via phone, everyone they meet with, everyone they email - everything will be 100% monitored.

Response by SGM Wilmer Morales Gomez made Jun 3 at 2014 3:41 PM

SGM Wilmer Morales Gomez — Tue, 03 Jun 2014 15:41:27 -0400

Too many questions remain unanswered, his record has been sealed, why? We may never know. Nobody will have the courage to classify him as a deserter in a political charge climate. His condition has change from a Soldier to a political commodity and it serve a purpose that will ultimately will be closure of the detention facility at Gitmo

Response by MAJ Jim Woods made Jun 3 at 2014 3:43 PM

MAJ Jim Woods — Tue, 03 Jun 2014 15:43:03 -0400

Anyone remember Robert Garwood (Vietnam)? As his status was known to be a deserter, he was never promoted. I hope he is still in Leavenworth but I'm not wasting my time and energy to find out.

There were rumored to be several other G.I.'s that went to the other side (Salt & Pepper in 1st CTZ). I think some were taken out by US Forces and were never seen again. Others died. I think this case will eventually be resolved but I'm just not sure how far they (Obama Administration) will take it and if they have the moral courage to do what is right.

Response by GySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 3 at 2014 5:28 PM

GySgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 03 Jun 2014 17:28:10 -0400

Terminal Lance - Terminal Lance “Conversion Rate”

Honestly I don’t really know what to say about either one of these stories. I mean, really, I don’t. Unless you’ve been living in a Taliban cave for the last couple of weeks, you’ve probably heard about the story of Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl being traded back to the US for five Taliban members. While the conversion rate seems odd, the entire veteran community seems to be pretty pissed off about it. I’m far removed from the event, and my introduction...

Response by CW2 Mickey Marshall made Jun 4 at 2014 12:01 PM

CW2 Mickey Marshall — Wed, 04 Jun 2014 12:01:37 -0400

I don't usually chime in but this has the hair on the back of my neck at Attention....... This should go down as the worst political move made by a sitting POTUS.... I believe this falls not only under the category of Deserter but also Treason.... and to let 5 high ranking members of the same terrorist go back to their territory and Group(s)... A slap in the face of all the men & women that fought & died to capture these thugs.... and to be heralded by media & the POTUS as being some kind of a victim??? Is he not reading the same stories I am from his former unit.... room mate, Squad leader, Plt. Sgt.. I am furious & disappointed that our CIC would stoop to this level....

Response by SFC Benjamin Parsons made Jun 4 at 2014 12:26 PM

SFC Benjamin Parsons — Wed, 04 Jun 2014 12:26:22 -0400

Reserving opinion until I know more from uninflamed sources.
POW promotions based upon TIS/TIG (I believe) are traditional.
Regardless, I'm very much against (sickened actually) the circumstances surrounding his release.

Response by Cpl Glynis Sakowicz made Jun 4 at 2014 1:06 PM

Cpl Glynis Sakowicz — Wed, 04 Jun 2014 13:06:03 -0400

I am really having a problem with this whole thing. I have a cousin who was my idol when I was a child. He went to Vietnam and never came home. We heard that he was a POW, but he was slipped into MIA status, but all I know, is that he never came home.
Now, there is this guy who might possibly be not so nice, but he was considered a POW for 5 years, so I was overjoyed when he was free... and then I started hearing about the way he was "captured" How those around him said he was mailing, or asking about mailing all his things home... how he disrespected the other troops and our country, and even after that, other Americans were willing to give their lives to get him back. Six Americans died for him. I am sure there were other who were wounded in this, but I haven't heard about them yet. So, Six died for him, and five really bad people were traded for him. I don't think the scales balance in this instance.
I've heard Hillary Clinton, and that woman, Susan Rice, telling us how good a thing it is, because he "served with distinction.." I feel like I am looking at two plus two equals seven here... it just doesn't add up.
As to how one makes rank... I am not sure, but I've seen it many times in the Army. They presupose that you will have kept your nose clean and done your work... therefore you get a new rank, based on time in service... I'm not sure you could call it Meritorious though. Just saying...

Response by GySgt Joel Shaver made Jun 4 at 2014 1:48 PM

GySgt Joel Shaver — Wed, 04 Jun 2014 13:48:24 -0400

When PFC Bergdal walked away from his post the Battalion/Regimental Commader had to do an investigation to report up to his superiors. He would assign an investigating officer to find out as much information as possible and report his findings to his commander in a timely matter. I would say lets take a look at all of the evidence and witnesses this commander has documented along with any witnesses to the event that come forward up to present day.
I believe bringing PFC Bergdal home is important. He was never convicted/tried of anything under the UCMJ so would continue to get scheduled promotions. Now that SGT Berdal is in the United States bring forward the evidence and decide if a trial is in order. From what I have watched on the news with Soldiers coming forward their is probably not one 11B infantrymen in the US Army that would stand next to him in a fight. That is saying something about SGT Bergdals character. If convicted of desertion or whatever the charge is we shall see if a General just sweeps it under the rug since this would blemish the Presidents DIRECT involvement.

Response by SSgt Kevin Hopkins made Jun 4 at 2014 2:35 PM

SSgt Kevin Hopkins — Wed, 04 Jun 2014 14:35:24 -0400

Seems you are jumping he gun since it hasnt been confirmed he is a deserter

Response by SSgt Michael Hacker made Jun 4 at 2014 6:30 PM

SSgt Michael Hacker — Wed, 04 Jun 2014 18:30:27 -0400

To be fair, SGT, he didn't get promoted FOR being a deserter. AFAIK, he still isn't technically officially listed as a deserter by the Army, so withholding promotion on suspicion alone would be wrong (pending an official court martial finding).

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 4 at 2014 6:41 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 04 Jun 2014 18:41:53 -0400

Let's get real - what we think we know may well be fact. But it may not. Of all the things we should not do is to make a pre-determination of whether someone is valueable enough for us to do our utmost to recover when missing. PERIOD

We may be correct in our righteousness - but even the guilty deserve a fair and unbiased trial.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 4 at 2014 10:30 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 04 Jun 2014 22:30:24 -0400

I know that he was held for almost five years by the Taliban in Afghanistan, but from my understanding he left his unit without permission. According to the UCMJ, that is considered AWOL and he should be court martialed for that offense. What about the Soldiers that gave their lives looking for him? Where is the justice for them?

Response by CW2 Joseph Evans made Jun 4 at 2014 10:31 PM

CW2 Joseph Evans — Wed, 04 Jun 2014 22:31:48 -0400

Wait for the Article 32 results. Not going to try him by Social Media Mob.
Besides, by all indications from the reporting on the incident I've seen, his unit abandoned him long before he abandoned them.

Response by SPC Ronnie Smith made Jun 4 at 2014 10:53 PM

SPC Ronnie Smith — Wed, 04 Jun 2014 22:53:31 -0400

Even "IF" he was a victim or "hostage", I refuse to even use the term POW because I think that is a slap in the face to all that have truly been in that position; never, never, never ever should any negotiation with a terrorist organization taken place. Nor would I or anyone I ever served with have wanted that price to be paid for our return. "Selfless Service"

What now for all the Americans who have now been put in harms way? Years and years of not blinking in the face of the enemy, standing tall and proud and showing the world an unyielding determination to deny the enemy this kind of leverage... shot to hell overnight.

I knew people that were there and in nearby units, it was all over the wire in the hours after it occurred and it is a well known fact among those that he did indeed abandon his equipment and post and according to nearby Afghans who were interrogated during the search was in fact searching out an English speaking Tali. And this brings me to the answer of the question that started this thread, How do you get meritoriously promoted while having deserted your comrades in arms and putting them all at risk and directly being responsible for the deaths of many looking for you? To direct the du"masses" from the truth, a smoke screen to draw attention away from the truth. Because the greatest downfall of our great Nation is that the masses will blindly believe the last thing they heard, from anyone!

Someone said he was, "a lost cause.' I'm afraid our Country is not far behind and it sickens me.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 4 at 2014 11:02 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 04 Jun 2014 23:02:45 -0400

I think it is too early to make a definate decision based on the limited information that has come from the report. However the brief bits I know, when he asked his supervisor what would cause the greatest headache to the unit, then leaves his weapon and NVGs the very next day. Well, the early evidence is damning to say the least.

As far as the meritorious promotion I have never been a fan of them as they are often rushed in haste before all the facts are known. Furthermore if you were a specialist, could you take an order from this guy? I know I couldn't given the knowledge I have on him.

Response by SPC Charles Brown made Jun 5 at 2014 12:49 AM

SPC Charles Brown — Thu, 05 Jun 2014 00:49:32 -0400

I am going to take this one step further. There is no way this individual is or should be considered a hero. From everything I have read about the actions of this individual it is my belief that he did not go AWOL, the manner in which he left his post leads me to the conclusion that he had no intention of returning to his unit. This surpasses the supposition of AWOL and moved directly into the class of desertion. Since the country he was stationed in is a war zone it should be considered desertion in the face of the enemy. This is just my opinion, and I believe that he deserted in the face of the enemy. He will have his day in court, and if found guilty he will receive the punishment he deserves. So much for my .02.

Response by LCpl Steve Wininger made Jun 5 at 2014 1:05 AM

LCpl Steve Wininger — Thu, 05 Jun 2014 01:05:31 -0400

Whether found to be AWOL or not, he is by no means a hero. I do not know enough to determine his guilt or innocence. That is for the Army to decide. In any case, I do not consider him a hero.

There is just too much mystery surrounding this, and I am not just talking about his apparent stroll from his post.

I am finding it more difficult to do, but I am trying to reserve judgement until the investigation is completed. The more I read the stranger the story gets.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 5 at 2014 9:43 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 05 Jun 2014 09:43:26 -0400

I'm just concerned of the precedent this has now set. We do now negotiate with terrorists. They also owned us on the propaganda front (and have been for years), because of course they had video of them letting him go.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 5 at 2014 11:59 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 05 Jun 2014 23:59:30 -0400

Well, it looks like that there's already a movie out about this, courtesy of MadMagazine.com, LOL!!!

http://www.madmagazine.com/blog/2014/06/03/barack-obamas-unfortunate-new-movie

Barack Obama’s Unfortunate New Movie

BOWE AND ARROWS DEPT.

Response by SSgt Kevin Hopkins made Jun 6 at 2014 8:26 AM

SSgt Kevin Hopkins — Fri, 06 Jun 2014 08:26:01 -0400

i think the guy should be given the benefit of the doubt until he is proven guilty as a deserter. untill then its all speculation and everyone here should stop passing judgement

Response by SGT Robert R. made Jun 6 at 2014 9:25 AM

SGT Robert R. — Fri, 06 Jun 2014 09:25:04 -0400

I am still trying to figure out how he can be meritoriously promoted. What was his official status? In Vietnam, were POWs meritoriously promoted? How does he walk off his post as a PFC and get promoted twice and into a rank of leadership?

I am not a conspiracy theorist, but this has me scratching my head.

Response by SGT Thomas Lucken made Jun 6 at 2014 4:03 PM

SGT Thomas Lucken — Fri, 06 Jun 2014 16:03:06 -0400

Funny part, should have been confirmed back in 2009!!!! Or was it hidden by the chain of command, from PL to the CINC?

Also, he is allowed a trial under Article 85 of the MCM! And should be given the punishment as prescribed by Article 85 if and when found guilty!

Punishment for desertion under Article 85 is death!

Response by SSgt Kevin Hopkins made Jun 7 at 2014 2:42 PM

SSgt Kevin Hopkins — Sat, 07 Jun 2014 14:42:15 -0400

im surprised at all the negative comments here about Bergdal. he isnt even in debriefing yet. this business of him being a deserter hasnt been proven yet. where is the military loyalty and professionalism here? give the man the benefit of the doubt at least until the facts are known.

Response by Cpl Brett Wagner made Jun 9 at 2014 3:58 PM

Cpl Brett Wagner — Mon, 09 Jun 2014 15:58:49 -0400

Whoa! I did not know this part of the story. So Bergdahl was a PFC went he lost his mind, wandered off, or deserted. Then with what his fellow soldiers had to say about him and the fact that he just left his gun, something I doubt his captures would leave behind if he were captured, he gets promoted twice? From E-2 (PFC) to E-4 then to E-5 Sgt? WTF-Over? Now I just read he wants to be addressed by his old rank PFC. Maybe we should address him as him by his Islamic name since he has such a hard time remembering English.

I swear Steven King cannot come up with stuff (wanted to use the other S word) as bizarre as this. Goo-goo daddy in the banana patch.

Response by PO2 Rocky Kleeger made Jun 9 at 2014 8:32 PM

PO2 Rocky Kleeger — Mon, 09 Jun 2014 20:32:44 -0400

I can't find anything that says he was meritoriously promoted.

That being said...I think he needs to be tried. And, if found convicted, punished to the FULL penalty of the UCMJ. Since his alleged desertion was during war time, the penalty would be death. If not found guilty, he should have to compete for promotion like everyone else.

Response by Maj Van Roberts made Jun 11 at 2014 12:38 PM

Maj Van Roberts — Wed, 11 Jun 2014 12:38:17 -0400

This is a failure in Bergdahl's leadership, from his first line supervisor to his commanding officer. He was administratively discharged from the US Coast Guard for memtal health issues. The Army took him anyway. His conduct before and while deployed should have alerted his leadership to intervene and remove him for his and his unit's safety. A good NCO would have prevented this whole situation. Too bad he did not have one to help him.

Response by Cpl Dennis F. made Oct 12 at 2014 3:51 PM

Cpl Dennis F. — Sun, 12 Oct 2014 15:51:16 -0400

I feel this will be swept under the rug by BS PC liberal political hacks. It should not be. I am waiting to see the results, but I fear they will not be forthcoming. They will wait for the American attention span to wane. The trade was, without doubt, one of the stupidest moves I have ever seen.

Response by SGT Michael Glenn made Oct 13 at 2014 4:10 AM

SGT Michael Glenn — Mon, 13 Oct 2014 04:10:05 -0400

What would Reagan have done??????

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Oct 13 at 2014 4:15 AM

SFC Mark Merino — Mon, 13 Oct 2014 04:15:39 -0400

If he was ever on RallyPoint I GUARANTEE he will be bombarded with contact requests. Endorsements may be a little hard to get. And for posting this thread we say, SGT Private RallyPoint Member ......

Response by 1SG Frank Boynton made Oct 13 at 2014 2:33 PM

1SG Frank Boynton — Mon, 13 Oct 2014 14:33:26 -0400

The worst display of leadership and lack of respect for the military by any commander in chief in the history of this country. Obama has the gull to trade 5 enemy combatants for 1 deserter. This was an open act of a traitor. He (Obama) then uses the claim that we leave no one behind and the opportunity was a very short window so he couldn't inform congress. What a crock of shit. We don't leave anyone behind my ass. What about an honorable soldier suffering from PTSD? Sgt. Tahmooressi who he absolutely refuses to do anything about. And this is supposedly from a "friendly" nation. I don't think there's any question whether he deserted or not. The entire event in my opinion will go down in history as the weakening of our armed forces. The Secretary of the Army, and the Senior Commanding General in the Army should resign for allowing it to happen. They are as guilty as the President. Bergdahl should be tired, convicted and executed for desertion in the face of the enemy, not to mention going over to the other side.

Response by Cpl Glynis Sakowicz made Oct 15 at 2014 9:23 AM

Cpl Glynis Sakowicz — Wed, 15 Oct 2014 09:23:57 -0400

You know, I have no idea. Again, I'm going to bring up my Corps experience, so commence with the eye-rolling, but here it goes:
We LOVE the Corps with a passion... we absolutely would love to be Marines for life... those of us who wanted a Career, mind you, but it doesn't turn out that way for most of us.
You see, when they open up a slot for Sergeant or Staff Sergeant in an MOS, often there are like... five or six for the entire Corps... with about a thousand great people up for it. If you have a Page 11 entry... if your PFT is down a point below someone else... if there is the slightest ding on your record for ANYTHING, they will go right past you and promote someone else.
I knew people that were asked how many holes there were in a C-rat Cracker at a promotion board, simply because they had ten perfect Marines, and they only had slots that time for eight...
That, in effect is why so many Marines, who have their hearts set on a career, will jump from one service to another, because there isn't any such thing nowadays as a career sergeant...

Now, knowing that, you might understand how most every Marine feels about Bergdahl now. We bust our collective butts for each and every stripe, and then a deserter is just tossed stripes and a mountain of back-pay.... No, its not something I can stomach, especially knowing that good people died trying to find him when he walked.
He deserves nothing. end of comment.

Response by Capt Richard I P. made Jan 18 at 2015 5:39 PM

Capt Richard I P. — Sun, 18 Jan 2015 17:39:25 -0500

I'd call this the ultimate "more to follow" story.

Response by SFC Ernest Thurston made Dec 22 at 2015 12:41 PM

SFC Ernest Thurston — Tue, 22 Dec 2015 12:41:03 -0500

I don't think you should be meritoriously promoted for desertion. To be promoted to an NCO position you are supposed to show demonstrated leadership. The last time I checked desertion is not leadership. Even if he just went outside of the perimeter to get some "fresh air" and somehow got lost that shows a lack of leadership and common sense.

Response by SPC Brett Curry made Nov 6 at 2017 10:23 AM

SPC Brett Curry — Mon, 06 Nov 2017 10:23:31 -0500

I'm sorry, but this is crap....men died looking for him. Let me repeat that, MEN DIED LOOKING FOR HIM!!!! He made a choice to walk away from his post. His desitions sound like they didn't work out the way he planned. He was captured. We did have to make a trade to get him back. If they got the chips in correctly, without their knowledge, and got a drone strike to make it our advantage is the only good thing to come out of this. But the bottom line is men died looking for him because of his choice. Along with choice and action comes CONCIQUENCES. He shld be prosecuted for man slauter at the very least for each man who died looking for him. Right now I consider him Americas black eye...