A Soldier’s Perspective on Integrity, Leadership, and the Capitol Attack
As a former soldier who served in Iraq, I believe deeply in freedom, integrity, selfless service, and personal courage—values instilled in every member of the U.S. military. These aren’t just words; they are principles that shape the decisions we make, especially in moments of crisis.
One of the most fundamental duties of a soldier is guarding and protecting—whether it’s a base, a commander, or a nation. If hostile individuals attempt to breach a secure compound, the rules of engagement are clear: we act decisively to stop them, using the appropriate level of force dictated by our mission and orders.
On January 6, 2021, law enforcement officers at the U.S. Capitol faced a similar duty. They were physically attacked, overwhelmed by a violent crowd, and forced to defend elected officials and the institution itself. The building was vandalized, officers were beaten, and many feared for their lives. These weren’t just protestors exercising free speech—this was a mob breaching security and assaulting officers.
That’s why I find it deeply concerning that in 2025, the President of the United States pardoned over 1,400 individuals involved in these crimes. Many of these people assaulted police, destroyed government property, and tried to overturn a lawful process. Now, some of the officers who put their lives on the line are saying they feel betrayed by this decision.
As someone who served in the military, I cannot understand how anyone who has taken an oath to protect this country could justify citizens storming a government building, attacking law enforcement, and ignoring the rule of law. In the military, if a soldier disobeys orders and goes rogue, leadership acts swiftly and decisively to discipline them. So why should the same principles of accountability not apply here?
Some may say, “Well, past administrations also pardoned people.” But that misses the point. If we excuse wrongdoing based on political convenience, then we destroy the very foundation of justice. The law must apply equally—not based on party loyalty, but on what is right and wrong.
I believe our nation faces a test of integrity. Can we recognize when power is being abused? Can we acknowledge that excusing lawlessness—no matter who does it—weakens our country? Can we demand better from our leaders?
I am not claiming to be perfect, and I acknowledge that as a human, I can make mistakes. However, I have made every effort to follow the facts, listen to multiple perspectives, and pay close attention to news reports, articles, and firsthand accounts. I encourage anyone reading this to fact-check what I’ve said, challenge me if you disagree, or ask me questions. I welcome thoughtful, respectful discussion because the only way we move forward is by seeking truth, thinking critically, and holding all leaders accountable—regardless of political affiliation.
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Tags: #IntegrityMatters #RuleOfLaw #MilitaryValues #CapitolAttack #Leadership #JusticeForAll #DefendDemocracy #SelflessService #HonorAndDuty #TruthMatters #Accountability #RespectTheOath #WeThePeople #AmericanValues #ThinkCritically