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IDemo

(16,926 posts)
Sat Jun 7, 2014, 07:56 PM Jun 2014

Bergdahls 'really hurt' by outcry

Source: Idaho Statesman

Phil Proctor, now the pastor of Sterling Presbyterian Church in Sterling, Va., said Friday that Bob and Jani Bergdahl have been crushed by allegations that Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl deserted and by his being labeled a traitor - not to mention an outpouring of anger directed at their family and their Idaho town.

"They have been really hurt," Proctor said, noting that they are trying to stay out of the picture for now.

Proctor said the Bergdahls were surprised by interviews they have seen with former platoon mates of their son. Some of the soldiers have told media outlets that they didn't support the exchange of five Taliban militants for his freedom.

"This very much hit them as a shock and I'm not sure anybody's got the full story," said Proctor, who is urging prayer and compassion for the family.



Read more: http://www.idahostatesman.com/2014/06/07/3223233/bergdahls-really-hurt-by-outcry.html?sp=/99/1687/&ihp=1

111 replies = new reply since forum marked as read
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Bergdahls 'really hurt' by outcry (Original Post) IDemo Jun 2014 OP
IF he didnt desert, we just dont know Garion_55 Jun 2014 #1
Interesting legal question wercal Jun 2014 #2
all i know is they accused him of actually helping the enemy kill soldiers Garion_55 Jun 2014 #4
Well something Should happen... wercal Jun 2014 #5
i thought you had to knowingly seek fame to become a "public figure" unblock Jun 2014 #102
Involuntary Public Figure wercal Jun 2014 #111
The Army investigation (called a 15-6 investigation) Big_Mike Jun 2014 #3
No one saw him leave. The official file does not indicate he was out looking for the TwilightGardener Jun 2014 #7
DOD states that there were no search missions for Bergdahl.. frylock Jun 2014 #21
He apparently had walked away twice before. Beacool Jun 2014 #81
You saw a picture of a Sgt. shot to doll rags? Why hasn't that been put out in the media? CTyankee Jun 2014 #87
Because he wasn't searching for Bergdahl. alfonso28 Jun 2014 #101
He should speak up Rosa Luxemburg Jun 2014 #36
I really hope the Army is shielding him from all of this in Germany riderinthestorm Jun 2014 #40
At least someone can speak for him if he is not ready Rosa Luxemburg Jun 2014 #41
Republican Soldiers billhicks76 Jun 2014 #42
anyone of those soldiers saying they didn't approve of the exchange roguevalley Jun 2014 #57
Message auto-removed Name removed Jun 2014 #85
daily caller? how right-wing of you OKNancy Jun 2014 #86
GOP Lying Machine at its finest Iliyah Jun 2014 #6
I feel sorry for this family and this young man. NorthCarolina Jun 2014 #8
Regardless of the Circumstances, cynzke Jun 2014 #66
We certainly are mentally and physically designed to withstand the conditions. former9thward Jun 2014 #68
Yeah WWII and war on terra laundry_queen Jun 2014 #77
Nope, they aren't. former9thward Jun 2014 #78
it's very relevant laundry_queen Jun 2014 #79
Not the condition are worse now treestar Jun 2014 #90
No it is not. former9thward Jun 2014 #91
No way treestar Jun 2014 #92
I think you need to read some military history about other wars. former9thward Jun 2014 #93
You haven't responded to my point treestar Jun 2014 #94
Your point? former9thward Jun 2014 #95
You don't think things have changed since then? treestar Jun 2014 #97
The Japanese had no problem with suicide attacks. former9thward Jun 2014 #98
So what is your point? alfonso28 Jun 2014 #100
Please cut and paste from one of my posts where I said former9thward Jun 2014 #104
No, just answer my question. alfonso28 Jun 2014 #106
If you bothered to read the thread ... former9thward Jun 2014 #108
I think they thought America was with them, in terms of hoping their son TwilightGardener Jun 2014 #9
Real Americans are with them Andy823 Jun 2014 #13
word up frylock Jun 2014 #22
Excellent post! nt Union Scribe Jun 2014 #46
They were until President Obama actually did it. nm Cha Jun 2014 #34
Yup...Let's be real Cali_Democrat Jun 2014 #54
Precisely, Cali! Cha Jun 2014 #55
Real Americans are with them, AND the scumbags WERE with them - until MH1 Jun 2014 #47
What kind? Just look up the thread. SunSeeker Jun 2014 #82
America was with theem until the Australian/Saudi owned Fox News elehhhhna Jun 2014 #103
The Republican model of society is jimlup Jun 2014 #10
The American hate machine at its finest ramapo Jun 2014 #11
This is the guy orchestrating the smears against Sergeant Bergdahl. Efilroft Sul Jun 2014 #12
I'm sorry, but too many Facebook posts come across like Faux Big_Mike Jun 2014 #61
Why do I think these people STILL proudly call themselves "conservatives"? Spitfire of ATJ Jun 2014 #14
The whole thing is so sad. Pennie109 Jun 2014 #15
I think we just need to wait before making any judgements goldent Jun 2014 #16
..... 840high Jun 2014 #28
How about not making judgments at all? MH1 Jun 2014 #49
Most of you are missing the point of the backlash. It's mainly about being against Obama. It even kelliekat44 Jun 2014 #17
You're right of course, but... Blanks Jun 2014 #24
Do you think the Bergdahl's are "missing the point" too? MH1 Jun 2014 #50
The wingers will do absolutely anything Curmudgeoness Jun 2014 #18
The GOP leadership declared from the beginning that their main objective was to get rid of Obama. lumpy Jun 2014 #26
The only good thing about this is that people considering enlisting may decide not to do it. L0oniX Jun 2014 #19
this has been fascinating iamthebandfanman Jun 2014 #20
I don't understand the hero canard either.. frylock Jun 2014 #23
Makes You Wonder.... cynzke Jun 2014 #67
Anything said by Bergdahl's platoon mates. . . DinahMoeHum Jun 2014 #25
After all they have already been through, I can't imagine their pain now. joanbarnes Jun 2014 #27
Has anyone seen this from Daily Kos? calimary Jun 2014 #29
Excellent, hadn't seen it before. Read the whole thing, very powerful. Thanks. freshwest Jun 2014 #52
somebuddy please remind me not to read the comment section next time GusBob Jun 2014 #30
I knew it.. how could they not be? Cha Jun 2014 #31
What's being done to this family is the worst kind of character assassination. Blue_In_AK Jun 2014 #32
They more closely resemble brown shirts every day. Enthusiast Jun 2014 #75
I'm so, so sorry for these parents and their son. The RW Smear Machine... Hekate Jun 2014 #33
Amazing the reaction to my Post a couple of days ago.. busterbrown Jun 2014 #84
FBI: Army Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl's parents have received threats riverwalker Jun 2014 #35
Damn. This sucks. riderinthestorm Jun 2014 #38
I just saw this on CNN and it makes me ill. Boomerproud Jun 2014 #53
Disgusting. NealK Jun 2014 #37
of course they're really hurt! barbtries Jun 2014 #39
Very good idea, barbtres Iwillnevergiveup Jun 2014 #44
If you're on Facebook, you can add to the comments at the linked article IDemo Jun 2014 #45
A couple links here - MH1 Jun 2014 #51
thank you barbtries Jun 2014 #58
thank you also ... MH1 Jun 2014 #70
All these "Give us Barrabas" lunatics Iwillnevergiveup Jun 2014 #43
Of Course. The Critics Don't See People. All They See Is A Political Opening DallasNE Jun 2014 #48
Outrageous lies from the GOP, the same GOP that booed a returning Vet in 2012 and chanted "Let him blkmusclmachine Jun 2014 #56
Remember, THIS is what Republicans do to REPUBLICANS. 6000eliot Jun 2014 #59
We already know his unit had less that stellar ratings...in fact it was AFU. Historic NY Jun 2014 #60
The most shocking thing was the 180 U-turn CJCRANE Jun 2014 #62
so who is pulling their strings? greymattermom Jun 2014 #64
repukes love to torture first... truthisfreedom Jun 2014 #63
He who laughs last......... lobodons Jun 2014 #65
It is not about Bergdahl, its about Obama. Just more of the same hatred. olegramps Jun 2014 #69
To the Bergdahls, it is about Bergdahl. MH1 Jun 2014 #71
The Republicans could care less about the Bergdahls pain. olegramps Jun 2014 #96
Someone tell this poor pastor that Republicans don't do "compassion" CanonRay Jun 2014 #72
Noticeably absent is Governor Butch Otter nilesobek Jun 2014 #73
Otter, 3 days ago: IDemo Jun 2014 #74
I'm waiting for the old man to go public IkeRepublican Jun 2014 #76
Whether he deserted ot not, why take it out on his parents? Beacool Jun 2014 #80
Post removed Post removed Jun 2014 #83
Well, he'll be home soon and I welcome him- USN Vet (1962-1973) El Shaman Jun 2014 #88
OK Mr. Bergdahl, are you going to do the right thing now and BURN YOUR GOP MEMBERSHIP CARD? RBInMaine Jun 2014 #89
And he refuses to see his parents marshall Jun 2014 #99
It's very early yet. He is trying to process his last five years and get used to his TwilightGardener Jun 2014 #105
If he is incompetent, who is his guardian? marshall Jun 2014 #107
I don't know if he's been deemed competent. He probably has a medical professional TwilightGardener Jun 2014 #109
Support the Troops! Justitia Jun 2014 #110

Garion_55

(1,914 posts)
1. IF he didnt desert, we just dont know
Sat Jun 7, 2014, 07:59 PM
Jun 2014

but in the end if there is no proof he did, i hope he comes back and sues hannity, limbaugh, his platoonmates, fox and anyone else who slandered him and accused him of either desertion and aiding the enemy. i hope he takes all their houses.


they better be able to prove what they are accusing him of

wercal

(1,370 posts)
2. Interesting legal question
Sat Jun 7, 2014, 08:08 PM
Jun 2014

Have the proof of life videos made over the years, Taliban release video, and Rose Garden announcement been enough to make Bergdahl a 'public figure'?

Garion_55

(1,914 posts)
4. all i know is they accused him of actually helping the enemy kill soldiers
Sat Jun 7, 2014, 08:10 PM
Jun 2014

forget about the desertion thing.

if he did, lock his ass up. if he didnt, somthing should happen to the people who accused him publicly of it.

wercal

(1,370 posts)
5. Well something Should happen...
Sat Jun 7, 2014, 08:14 PM
Jun 2014

But over the years I have seen stories about such cases....and the bar for establishing that somebody is a public figure has become remarkably low.

unblock

(51,920 posts)
102. i thought you had to knowingly seek fame to become a "public figure"
Mon Jun 9, 2014, 03:34 PM
Jun 2014

i don't think getting captured and held hostage for 5 years counts as fame-seeking.

the father has gone on camera and made public statements, so i think he counts as a public figure.

i wouldn't think bergdahl himself would qualify at this point, though he likely will qualify as he is likely to make more public statements himself.

wercal

(1,370 posts)
111. Involuntary Public Figure
Tue Jun 10, 2014, 01:09 AM
Jun 2014

There is such a thing as an involuntary public figure....a term specifically referring to people accused (rightly or wrongly) of a crime.

Btw - I don't think we will be hearing anythng from Bowe Bergdahl for years. Nothing but downside.

Big_Mike

(509 posts)
3. The Army investigation (called a 15-6 investigation)
Sat Jun 7, 2014, 08:09 PM
Jun 2014

stated that he had walked out. The folks in his platoon said he walked out in that investigation. I don't know about deaths, but I saw a picture of a Sergeant First Class that was shot to doll rags but survived during the search for Bergdahl. Six members of his platoon have now come forward, despite Non-Disclosure Agreements to the press, stating that Bergdahl took off on his own, and that they had radio reports of him searching out Taliban forces.

At this moment, I will wait to see what the court-martial Convening Authority, the Commanding General of XVIII Airborne Corps decides to do. Frankly, I think he should go to trial to clear the air and determine what exactly happened. We won't know for a couple of months. We'll see then.

His parents are truly innocent here, and how can a town be blamed for this? Whatever happens to the young man, there is no blame that can accrue to his family or his hometown.

TwilightGardener

(46,416 posts)
7. No one saw him leave. The official file does not indicate he was out looking for the
Sat Jun 7, 2014, 08:21 PM
Jun 2014

Taliban, according to the NYT. An intercept of villagers said there was a soldier looking for anyone who spoke English, but the looking-for-Taliban add-on came from one of his platoon-mates who said he heard that in the translation. The Pentagon has not established that anyone died searching for him, and said nothing of injuries, so I'd take any such reports with a little skepticism--because apparently after Bergdahl left, not only did scores of men die and get maimed because of him, but the IED's were more accurate, the attacks sneakier, the bees stung harder, the sunsets weren't as colorful, and so on. Until Bergdahl talks, everything is allegations and circumstantial evidence.

frylock

(34,825 posts)
21. DOD states that there were no search missions for Bergdahl..
Sat Jun 7, 2014, 09:28 PM
Jun 2014

Troops were advised to BOLO while out on routine patrol.

Beacool

(30,243 posts)
81. He apparently had walked away twice before.
Sun Jun 8, 2014, 03:43 PM
Jun 2014

Once in CA and once in Afghanistan. He always came back. Could he be considered a deserter if he just wanted to take a walk to release steam? I don't know much about military rules.

CTyankee

(63,708 posts)
87. You saw a picture of a Sgt. shot to doll rags? Why hasn't that been put out in the media?
Sun Jun 8, 2014, 06:45 PM
Jun 2014

If they are out there, and if they are as a DIRECT result of looking for Bergdahl, why isn't that picture on page 1 of every newspaper and media outlet in this country?

 

alfonso28

(10 posts)
101. Because he wasn't searching for Bergdahl.
Mon Jun 9, 2014, 03:30 PM
Jun 2014

They stopped actively looking for him in July, and didn't get shot up until September.

 

billhicks76

(5,082 posts)
42. Republican Soldiers
Sat Jun 7, 2014, 10:51 PM
Jun 2014

Its just a bunch of Tea Party soldiers trying to use this as a political issue. These nutjobs will stoop to anything.

roguevalley

(40,656 posts)
57. anyone of those soldiers saying they didn't approve of the exchange
Sun Jun 8, 2014, 12:13 AM
Jun 2014

are fuckers in my book because we don't leave anyone behind. What the hell? What if it was them?

Response to Garion_55 (Reply #1)

OKNancy

(41,832 posts)
86. daily caller? how right-wing of you
Sun Jun 8, 2014, 06:12 PM
Jun 2014

everyone knows he walked off, no one is disputing that. He had done it several times before and came back.
The unit was poorly disciplined and I suspect he was bullied for being different.

I suggest you read other sources.

Iliyah

(25,111 posts)
6. GOP Lying Machine at its finest
Sat Jun 7, 2014, 08:16 PM
Jun 2014

Its all about political gain, screw soldiers and the veterans well heck the whole lot of Americans. Corporate media at their finest as well. Condemned the man and blast his father. GOPers sent their hateful trolls out to viciously attack his hometown. Hateful sobs.

The creed of not leaving anyone behind and bring them home means nada to the GOPers. And as to desertions - whatever happened to innocent until proven guilty.

 

NorthCarolina

(11,197 posts)
8. I feel sorry for this family and this young man.
Sat Jun 7, 2014, 08:28 PM
Jun 2014

I could care less if he walked off or not, it was an illegal war anyway. I'm just glad he's home.

cynzke

(1,254 posts)
66. Regardless of the Circumstances,
Sun Jun 8, 2014, 09:09 AM
Jun 2014

Bergdahl was captured by the Taliban and held prisoner for five years. Desertions are up 80% since the Iraq war. No one is in a position to judge these soldiers. The brutal conditions they face on a daily basis takes its toll and we are not mentally and physically designed to withstand these conditions. Each instance of desertion involve specific circumstances unique to that incident. Here is an interesting and honest article concerning Bergdahl and his surroundings.

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/06/08/us/us-soldier-bowe-bergdahl-case-highlights-a-unit-known-for-troubles.html?_r=0

former9thward

(31,684 posts)
68. We certainly are mentally and physically designed to withstand the conditions.
Sun Jun 8, 2014, 10:06 AM
Jun 2014

Troops in WW II had much worse conditions and they were there for the duration of the war. The desertion rate was minimal.

laundry_queen

(8,646 posts)
79. it's very relevant
Sun Jun 8, 2014, 03:36 PM
Jun 2014

if you think about it.

Clear enemy with a moral imperative to stop him (and stop the atrocities) with a clear end in sight vs some loose definition of 'terrorists' and endless war while committing atrocities. Yeah, can't think why it would be relevant to mental health of a force, it's a mystery to me.

former9thward

(31,684 posts)
91. No it is not.
Mon Jun 9, 2014, 12:55 AM
Jun 2014

Look at the conditions the troops in WW II had to endure. Afghanistan is nothing like that and you are out in a year. The worst thing about Afghanistan was the constant dust. After I left there I was coughing up stuff for 6 months. But living conditions were fine.

treestar

(82,383 posts)
92. No way
Mon Jun 9, 2014, 01:16 AM
Jun 2014

roadside bombs, the constant noise, not being battle lines where you knew your side was in one place and the other was beyond that line - there is total confusion in Afghanistan.

former9thward

(31,684 posts)
93. I think you need to read some military history about other wars.
Mon Jun 9, 2014, 09:05 AM
Jun 2014

They were not as defined and easy as you think.

treestar

(82,383 posts)
94. You haven't responded to my point
Mon Jun 9, 2014, 09:33 AM
Jun 2014

But have tried to turn it around on claiming I don't know as much as you do. If you do, you can surely explain in better detail than that.

former9thward

(31,684 posts)
95. Your point?
Mon Jun 9, 2014, 09:37 AM
Jun 2014

Noise? You think there was not noise in other wars? You think the battle lines were well defined in other wars? That there was no confusion? You think in other wars there were not mines everywhere?

treestar

(82,383 posts)
97. You don't think things have changed since then?
Mon Jun 9, 2014, 01:30 PM
Jun 2014

That things are not a lot more complex and sophisticated?

The roadside bombs and suicide attacks don't seem characteristic of the Nazis.

 

alfonso28

(10 posts)
100. So what is your point?
Mon Jun 9, 2014, 03:25 PM
Jun 2014

Is it that today's soldiers are weaklings and cowards compared to The Greatest Generation?

former9thward

(31,684 posts)
104. Please cut and paste from one of my posts where I said
Mon Jun 9, 2014, 03:41 PM
Jun 2014

today's soldiers are weaklings and cowards. When you are able to do that I will answer your question.

 

alfonso28

(10 posts)
106. No, just answer my question.
Mon Jun 9, 2014, 03:47 PM
Jun 2014

Of course I can't cut and paste those words. The idea they convey sems to be what you are saying, by comparing WWII soldiers with those in recent wars such as Afghanistan.

So if that is not what you mean, what is your point? And why don't you just explain it? Is it because you can't?

former9thward

(31,684 posts)
108. If you bothered to read the thread ...
Mon Jun 9, 2014, 03:55 PM
Jun 2014

the poster I replied to said today's soldiers are physically and mentally unable to deal with wars like Afghanistan. That is utter nonsense. Are you going to defend that statement?

TwilightGardener

(46,416 posts)
9. I think they thought America was with them, in terms of hoping their son
Sat Jun 7, 2014, 08:29 PM
Jun 2014

came home safely. Because what kind of psychos would shit all over their relief and joy?

Andy823

(11,495 posts)
13. Real Americans are with them
Sat Jun 7, 2014, 08:52 PM
Jun 2014

It's only the low life scum sucking morons that listen to hate radio, fox news and any republican member of congress who are using this whole mess simply as another made up BS scandal they think they can use to make president Obama look bad, and that's just sick!

The right is showing just how hateful they really are, and this whole line of BS they are spewing only proves just how little they care about the soldiers they sent to fight a needless war that Bush lied us into.

 

Cali_Democrat

(30,439 posts)
54. Yup...Let's be real
Sun Jun 8, 2014, 12:01 AM
Jun 2014

At the end of the day the hate isn't about Bergdahl or his family.

It's all comes back to that black guy in the White House.

GOPers just hate the fact that he exists and he's President.

MH1

(17,536 posts)
47. Real Americans are with them, AND the scumbags WERE with them - until
Sat Jun 7, 2014, 11:32 PM
Jun 2014

it was OBAMA who was responsible for getting their son home.

What kind of psychos? Despicable vile gutter slime weasel cretins .... I could go on .... I am seething at the inhumanity of the asswipes who are attacking the family and the town.

 

elehhhhna

(32,076 posts)
103. America was with theem until the Australian/Saudi owned Fox News
Mon Jun 9, 2014, 03:34 PM
Jun 2014

inserted their agenda-revealing narrative of hate.

jimlup

(7,968 posts)
10. The Republican model of society is
Sat Jun 7, 2014, 08:33 PM
Jun 2014

very deeply sick and hurtful. I think it is an interesting question to ask how people could get this way. So cruel and thoughtless...

Efilroft Sul

(3,571 posts)
12. This is the guy orchestrating the smears against Sergeant Bergdahl.
Sat Jun 7, 2014, 08:51 PM
Jun 2014

Meet Richard Grenell, Fox News contributor and lead smear agent out to get Sergeant Bowe Bergdahl. Stop on by his Facebook page and remind him that real Americans don't leave our troops behind:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Richard-Grenell/351035070264

More on Grenell and his misdeeds:
http://mediamatters.org/blog/2014/06/03/fox-news-contributor-behind-pr-campaign-for-sol/199565

And over on Kos, a great compilation on the facts of the matter:
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2014/06/05/1304556/-The-GOP-is-Heading-for-a-World-iof-Hurt-on-Bergdahl-here-s-why?fb_action_ids=10201165364894711&fb_action_types=og.likes&fb_source=aggregation&fb_aggregation_id=288381481237582

Hell is too good of a place for the likes of Grenell and those who are out to get the Bergdahl family.

Big_Mike

(509 posts)
61. I'm sorry, but too many Facebook posts come across like Faux
Sun Jun 8, 2014, 03:50 AM
Jun 2014

I don't check either. I've referred in other posts to the information as presented in the Rolling Stone article. You guys are right, I should wait until all the info is in.

 

Spitfire of ATJ

(32,723 posts)
14. Why do I think these people STILL proudly call themselves "conservatives"?
Sat Jun 7, 2014, 08:53 PM
Jun 2014

The probably think "Liberal" is anti-American.

Pennie109

(128 posts)
15. The whole thing is so sad.
Sat Jun 7, 2014, 08:57 PM
Jun 2014

I feel so bad for Bergahl's parents. They've waited years to get their son back and to see him and themselves smeared in the press in the worst way. No one deserves this treatment. It's disgusting.

MH1

(17,536 posts)
49. How about not making judgments at all?
Sat Jun 7, 2014, 11:34 PM
Jun 2014

At least not the kind that lead to smearing innocent people like the parents and the town?

As for the soldier, judgment should be left to the military and UCMJ. That's what it's there for.

 

kelliekat44

(7,759 posts)
17. Most of you are missing the point of the backlash. It's mainly about being against Obama. It even
Sat Jun 7, 2014, 09:10 PM
Jun 2014

gives some Dems cover to be against him...

Blanks

(4,835 posts)
24. You're right of course, but...
Sat Jun 7, 2014, 09:38 PM
Jun 2014

I have to wonder if the 'minds' behind the republican hate machine aren't doing a little research to see just how far they can get people to go against things that they supposedly stand firmly for.

This is an example of denying someone due process - to leave Bergdahl there would be to deny him the opportunity to face his accusers. The tea party types go on and on about how Obama is destroying the constitution - meanwhile they line up to scream about denying a soldier his right to due process (5th and 14th amendments).

This is very much specifically against something that they generically claim to be for.

This makes me believe that these people can be convinced to do anything - it's kind of scary.

MH1

(17,536 posts)
50. Do you think the Bergdahl's are "missing the point" too?
Sat Jun 7, 2014, 11:36 PM
Jun 2014

Maybe someone from DU should call 'em up and 'splain it to them??




(of course it's about Obama ... how does that make it hurt the targets any less, if even if they get that?)

Curmudgeoness

(18,219 posts)
18. The wingers will do absolutely anything
Sat Jun 7, 2014, 09:15 PM
Jun 2014

to try to discredit the president, even if it destroys a soldier and his family. It is shameful.

lumpy

(13,704 posts)
26. The GOP leadership declared from the beginning that their main objective was to get rid of Obama.
Sat Jun 7, 2014, 09:43 PM
Jun 2014

And that has been their prime operation all along to the detriment of this country. People like the Bergdahls are just one more of the victims affected by the GOP's treasonous and poisonous objective.

iamthebandfanman

(8,127 posts)
20. this has been fascinating
Sat Jun 7, 2014, 09:26 PM
Jun 2014

to behold...

i see people on other sites screaming "HES NOT A HERO!" but was he ever called one?

btw, people keep seeming to forget that he was around the 'KILL TEAM" that murdered countless men, women, AND CHILDREN.

one of which he witnessed first hand.. the platoon would throw out candy to children and then RUN THEM OVER with their stryker vehicles.



this guys seriously mentally disturbed.. and it was what he saw while over there that caused it.


id be pretty fucking anti what i was doing too if i witnessed someone on 'my team' crushing a small child with a multi ton vehicle FOR FUN.

frylock

(34,825 posts)
23. I don't understand the hero canard either..
Sat Jun 7, 2014, 09:33 PM
Jun 2014

Who is calling him a hero, and why? It's the same shit wherein common-sense gun laws equate to confiscation of all guns.

cynzke

(1,254 posts)
67. Makes You Wonder....
Sun Jun 8, 2014, 09:20 AM
Jun 2014

His fellow soldiers vigorously deny these accusations. They are pretty serious. Are these soldiers worried about what Bergdahl might reveal now that he has been released? Makes me wonder.

calimary

(80,521 posts)
29. Has anyone seen this from Daily Kos?
Sat Jun 7, 2014, 10:02 PM
Jun 2014

Apologies if it's already been posted.

http://www.dailykos.com/story/2014/06/05/1304556/-The-GOP-is-Heading-for-a-World-iof-Hurt-on-Bergdahl-here-s-why?detail=email#

The author brings up some very good points. Including the absence of evidence, so far, to support what Bowe Bergdahl's swift-boating "brothers" are saying. Come to think of it, if republi-CON operatives like john bolton are behind this, then whatever accusations those folks are making NEED to be taken with a grain of salt the size of the moon.

GusBob

(7,285 posts)
30. somebuddy please remind me not to read the comment section next time
Sat Jun 7, 2014, 10:05 PM
Jun 2014

Sick to my stomach. The hatred

Blue_In_AK

(46,436 posts)
32. What's being done to this family is the worst kind of character assassination.
Sat Jun 7, 2014, 10:09 PM
Jun 2014

I just can't believe some people's cruelty.

Hekate

(89,976 posts)
33. I'm so, so sorry for these parents and their son. The RW Smear Machine...
Sat Jun 7, 2014, 10:11 PM
Jun 2014

....is spewing its filth again, and only to discredit the Black Man in the White House. They don't care who the hell gets hurt, run over, or killed.

I know there are some at DU who have gotten caught up in the controversy, mostly in good faith I'm sure. But over the years I feel like I've worn my typing fingers out saying Consider The Source, and Who Does It Serve.

Bottom line for me: Americans bring their soldiers home. When we stop doing that and start leaving them behind in enemy hands, how dare we ever ask anyone to serve in any branch of the armed forces? How dare we?

Military service is not a popularity contest, nor is the decision to bring someone home. Christ on a Trailer Hitch, what have we become?

The trash talk started almost before Bergdahl was admitted to the hospital at Landstuhl, and was in full cry within a couple of days. There's been no trial, nothing of the sort, just a most obvious attempt to once again undermine an action taken by President Obama. (For reference, see how the capture and death of bin Ladin has been reframed as an heroic act undertaken by SEAL Team 6 apparently on their own initiative without direction by their CIC.)

If there is anything at all to the stories, let it play out in a military courtroom. Until then, everyone else needs to chill.

Boomerproud

(7,874 posts)
53. I just saw this on CNN and it makes me ill.
Sat Jun 7, 2014, 11:53 PM
Jun 2014

The posters that get to core of it are correct-it's not about Bowe Bergdahl, his family, the Taliban or anything else-it's about Obama.

NealK

(1,777 posts)
37. Disgusting.
Sat Jun 7, 2014, 10:30 PM
Jun 2014

What happened to Innocent until proven guilty? And that asshole McCaine have a shady history as a POW but is considered a hero?

barbtries

(28,689 posts)
39. of course they're really hurt!
Sat Jun 7, 2014, 10:31 PM
Jun 2014

jeez i'm hurt for them. the hatred of obama knows no boundaries - not of decency, truth, american values, none of it. i am so disgusted by the right and the media right now.

i wonder if there is an avenue for expressing our support for this family.

IDemo

(16,926 posts)
45. If you're on Facebook, you can add to the comments at the linked article
Sat Jun 7, 2014, 11:14 PM
Jun 2014

There seem to be the usual faux-Patriots whipping their 3 x 5 made-in-China American flags around and calling Bowe and Bob everything but human.

MH1

(17,536 posts)
51. A couple links here -
Sat Jun 7, 2014, 11:44 PM
Jun 2014

I posted this thread on Wednesday and it didn't get much attention but a couple links were given by Riverwalker -

http://www.democraticunderground.com/10025048329


Twitter: Robert Bergdahl
@bobbergdahl

Father of US Army SGT Bowe Bergdahl Prisoner of War - Afghanistan Since 2009

Hailey Idaho · bringboweback.com

http://bringboweback.com/

http://supportbowe.org/


At the second link, look in the right sidebar for "Community in support of ..." section.

barbtries

(28,689 posts)
58. thank you
Sun Jun 8, 2014, 12:23 AM
Jun 2014

i went and posted on a fb page. they need to know that as loud as the media may be, it does not represent all of america or even speak to all of america.
it is a despicable travesty. all because they hate the president and can never throw their support behind one fucking thing that he does as president.

MH1

(17,536 posts)
70. thank you also ...
Sun Jun 8, 2014, 10:35 AM
Jun 2014

I am starting to be REALLY upset by this. Not only for the Bergdahls - that's awful enough - but the knowledge that I share my country with such evil, despicable people as would attack parents and complete strangers at a time like this ... and that approximately 50% of those that bother to vote in the fall, will be siding with this evil. We are in real danger that our country will be governed (again) by people who think like these cretins ... and we will all suffer the consequences.

Iwillnevergiveup

(9,298 posts)
43. All these "Give us Barrabas" lunatics
Sat Jun 7, 2014, 11:00 PM
Jun 2014

need to chill out, sit down, put their feet up, pop open a non-alcoholic beverage and watch "Forest Gump" again.

DallasNE

(7,390 posts)
48. Of Course. The Critics Don't See People. All They See Is A Political Opening
Sat Jun 7, 2014, 11:33 PM
Jun 2014

They have no shame. McCarthyism is back big time. Yes, John McCain, that includes you!

 

blkmusclmachine

(16,149 posts)
56. Outrageous lies from the GOP, the same GOP that booed a returning Vet in 2012 and chanted "Let him
Sun Jun 8, 2014, 12:08 AM
Jun 2014

DIE! Let him DIE! Let him DIE!"

Disgusting, and vulgar. Zero human empathy. That's today's extreme, whacked-out Republican Party.

6000eliot

(5,643 posts)
59. Remember, THIS is what Republicans do to REPUBLICANS.
Sun Jun 8, 2014, 01:10 AM
Jun 2014

Never give these bastards an inch, ever, and if they ever gain the WH again, make their lives a living hell.

Historic NY

(37,449 posts)
60. We already know his unit had less that stellar ratings...in fact it was AFU.
Sun Jun 8, 2014, 02:00 AM
Jun 2014

it sound like they are trying to deflect their problems on Bergdahl.

CJCRANE

(18,184 posts)
62. The most shocking thing was the 180 U-turn
Sun Jun 8, 2014, 05:33 AM
Jun 2014

Conservatives and Repubs celebrated when they first heard news of Bergdahl's release.

We all saw that on twitter etc.

But then BOOM!

It was like someone flicked a switch and they all flipped round and attacked the Bergdahls.


greymattermom

(5,750 posts)
64. so who is pulling their strings?
Sun Jun 8, 2014, 06:55 AM
Jun 2014

This happens all the time and is so creepy. How can that many people have the same opinion and use the same talking points all the time, even switch opinions at the same minute? Do they have some sort of implant that gets the word of the day broadcast from someone? Who is the evil wizard? Do they do it for money? There used to be conservatives who spoke for themselves and tried to make coherent arguments, like William F. Buckley. Now, they all seem like evil robots to me.

MH1

(17,536 posts)
71. To the Bergdahls, it is about Bergdahl.
Sun Jun 8, 2014, 10:38 AM
Jun 2014

I think we should not lose sight of the fact that there are real people who are being attacked and are in pain.

(Yeah, kind of like the real people we bombed the shit out of in Afghanistan and Iraq ... or the real people who were lost on 9/11 ... perhaps Bowe's biggest mistake was youthful idealism that he was going to Afghanistan to "help the Afghan people".)

olegramps

(8,200 posts)
96. The Republicans could care less about the Bergdahls pain.
Mon Jun 9, 2014, 10:11 AM
Jun 2014

It wouldn't matter if Obama had chosen to not make the swap and as a consequence Bergdahl died then the Republicans would have blamed him for his death for not using every avenue to free him. It is just another political football for the Republicans to use against the president.

CanonRay

(14,013 posts)
72. Someone tell this poor pastor that Republicans don't do "compassion"
Sun Jun 8, 2014, 10:46 AM
Jun 2014

when there are political points to be made.

nilesobek

(1,423 posts)
73. Noticeably absent is Governor Butch Otter
Sun Jun 8, 2014, 10:58 AM
Jun 2014

and other Idaho GOP leaders not jumping on the dog pile. Does Otter know already that this swiftboating is bogus? I'm so angry about this right now it would be wise of me not to comment further.

Thank you for doing a difficult and great thing President Obama.

IDemo

(16,926 posts)
74. Otter, 3 days ago:
Sun Jun 8, 2014, 11:15 AM
Jun 2014
Gov. Otter Issues Another Statement on Bergdahl Release

“There are still too many unknowns for me to weigh in on the specifics of how this prisoner exchange occurred. I’m not going to speculate on anything beyond what I know – and what I know is that after almost five years, a young man from Idaho no longer is in enemy hands.

“There are processes in place within the military and in Congress for whatever happens next. Those processes need to run their course.”

http://theketchumkeystone.org/2014/06/04/gov-otter-issues-another-statement-on-bergdahl-release/

Beacool

(30,243 posts)
80. Whether he deserted ot not, why take it out on his parents?
Sun Jun 8, 2014, 03:40 PM
Jun 2014

They did what any parent of a POW would have done to get their child back. The right and the media have now placed this couple in danger of some nut job who may go after them.

Disgraceful!!!

Response to IDemo (Original post)

 

RBInMaine

(13,570 posts)
89. OK Mr. Bergdahl, are you going to do the right thing now and BURN YOUR GOP MEMBERSHIP CARD?
Sun Jun 8, 2014, 08:57 PM
Jun 2014

My heart goes out to the Bergdahl's but I hope to hell the first thing he does is burn his GOP registration card.

marshall

(6,661 posts)
99. And he refuses to see his parents
Mon Jun 9, 2014, 02:04 PM
Jun 2014

That has got to be horrible for them, after all they've done. But at least they know he is out of immediate danger.

TwilightGardener

(46,416 posts)
105. It's very early yet. He is trying to process his last five years and get used to his
Mon Jun 9, 2014, 03:41 PM
Jun 2014

new situation now--and there's no telling what he believes or how he may have been psychologically damaged by his captors. The Bergdahls can probably understand that, as anxious as they are to see him.

marshall

(6,661 posts)
107. If he is incompetent, who is his guardian?
Mon Jun 9, 2014, 03:50 PM
Jun 2014

I don't know about military law, but is the military in a sense your next of kin, trumping parental or spousal relationships?

TwilightGardener

(46,416 posts)
109. I don't know if he's been deemed competent. He probably has a medical professional
Mon Jun 9, 2014, 04:08 PM
Jun 2014

as an assigned advocate to oversee his reintegration, possibly a legal advocate too. Not sure if the military is able to treat him without his OR his family's consent--though Uncle Sam still owns his butt, and service members certainly don't get to say no to things like physicals and vaccinations.

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