Marines killed Iraqis ‘in cold blood’

**Bluesman** · 20 Feb 08,, 17:20

Originally Posted by Tronic

Its war. Stuff happens. I know the tone now is very different but I guess time changes ones mindset and opinions. Not being in a warzone myself, I can just imagine all the tension and pressure a soldier must go through. Above that, he is expected to make split second decisions which can mean life and death for him and fellow soldiers. And then imagine having to go through such phsycological trauma of being branded a "murderer" by the media. Hard to judge accidents from intentional murders. Investigation lasted 2 years; hope that revealed the intent and the truth.

If it was JUST the media that branded them murderers, that would be expected, almost boilerplate proforma stock 'news reportage', as seen from a left-wing media culture that so dominates the field, and that has a worldview that only sees these incidents through their own distorted prism. Almost excusable, really.

But a powerful Congressman - and, incredibly, a former Marine himself - that straight-up accuses them of cold-blooded murder, and then refuses to retract it, even when evidence subsequently proves him wrong? THIS is what's got us so upset.

**Tronic** · 20 Feb 08,, 18:55

Originally Posted by Bluesman

If it was JUST the media that branded them murderers, that would be expected, almost boilerplate proforma stock 'news reportage', as seen from a left-wing media culture that so dominates the field, and that has a worldview that only sees these incidents through their own distorted prism. Almost excusable, really.

But a powerful Congressman - and, incredibly, a former Marine himself - that straight-up accuses them of cold-blooded murder, and then refuses to retract it, even when evidence subsequently proves him wrong? THIS is what's got us so upset.

The dirty game of politics played by the politicians sitting in the comforts of their own homes; at the expense of other people's lives. Its a worldwide problem mate.

**Skull6** · 21 Feb 08,, 00:32

I cannot remember who first said this, but I feel it apropos to this conversation:

"The good military is constantly preparing to correct the mistakes of their government's politicians."

One must ask themselves, "Is the media doing what they do to print or speak 'news,' or is their bottom-line measured more in profits or ratings?"

Don't get me wrong. The media can keep militaries "honest." & there are still a few good reporters out there--who attempt to keep their bias out of their reporting & still attempt to verify what they learn from other sources before writing their pieces. The problem is, it's more rewarding in most societies today to be the first to put something out to the public, right or wrong.

& Gen W. T. Sherman said something that, in light of the topic of this thread, makes me chuckle:

“If I had my choice I would kill every reporter in the world, but I am sure we would be getting reports from hell before breakfast.”