The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.


Letter to Editor

Dear Editor,

I, as most, feel extremely blessed to live in the United States of America.

I feel especially blessed to know, love and trust Veterans that live in this community, which is why I feel so strongly about the 3 Navy Seals that are being faced with assault charges for doing their job with valor and honor.

For those of you not familiar with the story, these three men captured the mastermind behind the murder and mutilation of four Blackwater USA security guards, who were hung from a bridge after being drug through the streets behind a vehicle, in Fallujah in 2004.

The man captured, fought arrest and received a bloody lip from one of the enlisted. That's it.

Now, instead of being lauded for bringing to justice a high-value target, three of the SEAL commandos, (and in my opinion, all who have served) have received a slap in the face.

Matthew McCabe, a Special Operations Petty Officer Second Class (SO-2), is facing three charges: dereliction of performance of duty for willfully failing to safeguard a detainee, making a false official statement, and assault.

Petty Officer Jonathan Keefe, SO-2, is facing charges of dereliction of performance of duty and making a false official statement.

Petty Officer Julio Huertas, SO-1, faces those same charges and an additional charge of impediment of an investigation.

I am completely ashamed of the leaders who could justify such a cause.

To all who have served our country so bravely and full of humility, I pray that you know how grateful I am to have you.

I feel blessed to know the ones still living and I feel certain that those precious souls who have gone before us are being blessed by God's presence.

Thank a Veteran today.
Jennifer Baxter
Media