Several news outlets are reporting today that a Navy Rear Admiral is working through the process to have Chief Eddie Gallagher stripped of his designation as a Navy SEAL.
It’s important to remember that Chief Gallagher has been acquitted of all of the most serious charges brought against him. Furthermore, the Commander in Chief has weighed in on this issue by ordering his rank to be reinstated. To have a Rear Admiral circle back behind the President and pursue punitive action at this point is highly suspect, particularly given that Chief Gallagher is expected to leave the Navy soon. Eddie and his family have already been through enough.
Earlier today, I made an unannounced visit with some of my colleagues to the Navy Office of Legislative Affairs on Capitol Hill to express my strongest concerns over this news.
*** UPDATE: NOV. 21st - 9:34 AM ***
President Trump made the following announcement this morning:
"The Navy will NOT be taking away Warfighter and Navy Seal Eddie Gallagher’s Trident Pin. This case was handled very badly from the beginning. Get back to business!"
Good. This shouldn't have needed an order from the Commander in Chief, but I'm pleased President Trump intervened here.