Joseph G. DeFloria, Jr.
Commander, U.S. Navy, (Ret)
November 3, 2003

Dear President Bush,

I am writing on behalf of LTC Alan B. West, who, according to the Washington Times, is being charged by the U.S. Army with Criminal Assault for coercing an Iraqi into providing information that foiled a planned attack against U.S. Soldiers. It appears that if the information was not revealed by the Iraqi that more casualties to American Forces would have resulted.

In view of the unconventional tactics being employed against the coalition forces in Iraq, it is clear to me that unconventional procedures on our part may be required under certain circumstances to prevent attacks against our personnel and protect American and coalition lives.

In your capacity as Commander-in-chief of the U.S. Armed Forces, I urge you to intercede on behalf of LTC West and order the U.S. Army to withdraw all charges against him in connection with this incident. LTC West should be recognized for what he did, and that is save the lives of his men and possibly other coalition forces.

Very Respectfully,

Joseph G. DeFloria, Jr.
Commander, U.S. Navy, (Ret)

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