i read this heartbreaking story

in the washington post

it was about a soldier, edward richmond, jr who shot a civilian in iraq. he was convicted, demoted, served time and dishonorably discharged.

there is no doubt he shot the civilian. HE admits it. his story differs from some of the witnesses testifying against him.

edward richmond jr should NEVER have been put in the situation to begin with. he was trained to kill and according to him had ORDERS to kill if the civilian moved. that is a distinct possiblity. i could believe that. i am NOT excusing any of this. what i am saying is my heart is breaking that time after time, story after story i have to hear this and read this while many families have to live with this for the rest of their lives both here AND in iraq.

oh, i am NOT lumping mr richmond in with the lindy england crowd. there is no evidence of any kind that says he was one of 'THOSE TYPES'