The Department of Defense, as it is formally known, has embarked on an investigation into Senator Mark Kelly for alleged misconduct. This inquiry stems from his involvement in a video alongside fellow veterans in Congress, where they advocated for military personnel to resist illegal orders.
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The Pentagon’s announcement included the following statement:
The Department of War has received significant allegations of misconduct against Captain Mark Kelly, USN (Ret.). In accordance with the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), specifically 10 U.S.C. § 688, we have initiated a comprehensive review of these allegations. This process may lead to actions that could include a recall to active duty for court-martial proceedings or other administrative measures.
We will proceed in strict adherence to military law, ensuring due process and impartiality throughout the investigation. Official comments will be minimized to preserve the integrity of the proceedings. The Department of War reminds all that military retirees remain accountable to the UCMJ for relevant offenses, and federal statutes such as 18 U.S.C. § 2387 prohibit actions that might undermine the loyalty, morale, or discipline within the armed forces.
Any infractions will be addressed through the appropriate legal channels. Servicemembers are reminded of their legal duty under the UCMJ to follow lawful orders, which are presumed lawful unless proven otherwise. A servicemember’s personal beliefs do not serve as justification for disobeying lawful orders.
In response, Senator Kelly declared he would not yield to intimidation:
At 22, I became an Ensign in the United States Navy, pledging my loyalty to the Constitution. I have honored that oath through flight training, multiple deployments on the USS Midway, 39 combat missions in Operation Desert Storm, test pilot school, and four space shuttle missions at NASA. I’ve dedicated my life to this country, particularly after my wife Gabby suffered a life-threatening injury while serving her constituents.
In combat, I faced missiles and anti-aircraft fire to fulfill my mission. At NASA, I commanded the space shuttle and participated in the recovery of my fallen astronaut colleagues from Columbia. I did all this for a country I love dearly.
Secretary Hegseth’s tweet was the first indication I had of this situation. I also noticed the President’s posts suggesting I should be arrested, hanged, or even executed. If this is an attempt to intimidate me or my Congressional colleagues into silence, it will not succeed. I’ve sacrificed too much for this nation to be bullied by those more concerned with their own power than upholding the Constitution.
Senator Kelly’s Arizona colleague, Reuben Gallego, did not hold back in his critique of Secretary Hegseth during a CNN appearance.
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