Stung by a string of scandals, on Tuesday Naval Special Warfare commander Rear Adm. Collin Green issued a four-page “back to basics” directive designed to shore up shoddy conduct, restore moral accountability and create better leaders.
Despite the collapse of their case against him, eight days later four military attorneys netted Navy Achievement Medals for their roles in his prosecution, according to records released to Navy Times following a Freedom of Information Act request.
It's the latest imbroglio to embarrass the SEALs, the elite special operators once lauded as “silent professionals” who eschewed the shenanigans that snagged headlines.
Defense attorneys called it a “mutiny” by entitled, junior SEALs trying to oust a demanding chief. Prosecutors contend that the sailor's own words, photos and junior SEALs convict him.
A panel composed mostly of Marines with combat experience will decide the fate of the 19-year-veteran charged with murder, attempted murder and conduct prejudicial to good order and discipline for posing with the corpse for photographs.
Marine Staff Sgt. Giorgio Kirylo said he watched as Special Warfare Operator Chief Edward “Eddie” Gallagher tried to save the 17-year-old captive and never saw him use his hunting knife on him.