Today, Explained "Keep our honor clean"
May 23, 2019
Adam Weinstein, a consulting editor for The New Republic, dives into the controversial topic of military pardons linked to alleged war crimes. He examines President Trump's potential pardons set around Memorial Day, drawing parallels to Nixon's response to the My Lai massacre. The discussion highlights the ethical dilemmas surrounding accountability in military conduct and the impact these decisions have on the honor of service members. Weinstein also reflects on past atrocities and the moral complexities faced when balancing justice and political pressures.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Gallagher's Alleged Crimes
- Navy SEAL Edward Gallagher is accused of war crimes, including murdering an elderly man and a young girl in Mosul.
- He allegedly stabbed a teenage ISIS fighter in his care and posed for a photo with the body.
Gallagher's Family Appeals to Trump
- Gallagher's family appealed to President Trump for a pardon through appearances on Fox News.
- They claim he was falsely accused by disgruntled platoon members and is a victim of military corruption.
Goldstein's Confession and Charges
- After leaving the Army, Matthew Goldstein admitted to killing a suspected bomb maker in Afghanistan on Fox News.
- This led to a murder charge, despite initially only losing his Silver Star.