You wouldn’t know this from reading big media, like the NY Times

But the Haditha case they all blustered over and pre-judged, together with some politically motivated members of Congress, just got dropped.

Military Judge Colonel Steven Folsom, USMC, this morning dismissed all charges against Lt Colonel Jeffrey Chessani on the grounds of unlawful command influence.  He blistered the prosecution’s case in an opinion he read from the bench that lasted an hour.   The ruling was without prejudice.  Colonel Folsom gave prosecutors 72 hours in which to notify him whether they would appeal.

This was a major victory for truth, justice, Chessani, and the outstanding team at the Thomas More Law Center.

Richard Thompson, President and Chief Counsel of the Law Center, commenting on the judge’s decision had this to say, “We are all grateful for the judge’s ruling today.  He truly was the “last sentinel” to guard against unlawful command influence.” 

“Tragically, our own government eliminated one of its most effective combat commanders.  The insurgents are laughing in their caves,” said Thompson.

LtCol Chessani’s official 2006 Combat Fitness Report declared him “a superb leader, who knows his men, knows the enemy, knows his business,” and recommended him for promotion.  The reviewing Major General added, LtCol Chessani has “unlimited potential and value to the Marine Corps,” and also recommended him for promotion.

Read the commendations in this report. Chessani’s service has been honorable and dignified. His treatment by the media, fueled by opportunistic politicians, was deplorable.

As is their unwillingness to correct the record and apologize for their part in such behavior. The American people deserve better. Congratulations to everyone who worked so hard to bring this case to a just conclusion.