Manning is facing the possibility of 136 years in prison.

[rocco]

I agree with you Ian, it is a very grey area indeed. Then again, I suppose it was something that perhaps affected his conscience. Could it happen to anyone of us? Maybe so. That's what makes each individual different.

I think the army though has been a little too harsh in its judgement of this soldier, and perhaps the court marshal verdict should of been humiliating enough. As he would then have to go home and face the ridicule from his family and friends. But to add a prison sentence, that practically seems like a death sentence. Well. A tad over the top!

I hope his seniors show at least some pity on him, there must be records detailing his courageous side, as all soldiers that go into battle are. He's obviously seen some action, showed bravery of sorts, maybe even saved others! But.............I can't see this being a good advertisement for "recruiting" in the near future, if they don't act wisely on this case!

Take care Ian.

rocco.

[js207]

I hope his seniors show at least some pity on him, there must be records detailing his courageous side, as all soldiers that go into battle are. He's obviously seen some action, showed bravery of sorts, maybe even saved others!

Any source indicating he went into battle? All I've seen indicated his Baghdad deployment was desk duty within the Green Zone, no battle involved. If there had been any courageous incidents, wouldn't the defense have raised that in mitigation, or at least in public discourse?