Conversation

@stevestreza As a 10 year Navy veteran myself, that stance is madness. First, he is on record from the department of veterans affairs as being an E-9, which is mentioned in official Congressional records from when he was sworn in. He served 24 years, which is more than most people serve in any branch. He had hearing loss and had to fight through medical to remain on the job through his retirement. He was a schoolteacher and wanted to run for congress upon his student's wishes, which you can't do in active service.
Sure, he left before his group was sent overseas, but those orders came in as he was leaving. It's not like him getting those orders spurred his separation, it just doesn't work like that. He'd have been shipped anyway and had to separate while overseas.
Plus, we have no idea if his medical status allowed him to be deployed in a combat zone. He likely was never going to go.
All speculation based on info I've learned, but I don't buy the "he's a coward" narrative.