Unequal treatment

NEW YORK–It is hard to believe that seven years have passed since the capture of the so-called American Taliban.

‘American Taliban’ John Walker Lindh

John Walker Lindh was a troubled young man, a boy really, who left home in search of himself. He was sickly as a child. There is the suggestion that he was closeted as a teenager. And far more serious, the allegation that he was tortured when captured. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 20 years.

But the times have changed. And now his supporters are asking for clemency. And President Bush has talked of his belief in redemption. But if that isn’t enough, consider this: In 2004, the Bush Administration released another U.S. citizen who was accused of fighting for the Taliban. His name was Yaser Hamdi and the similarities suggest a review of the Lindh case is in order. Both young men went to Afghanistan prior to 9/11, when they believed the Taliban was fighting in a civil war, not against the U.S. And there is no indication that either ever fought against us.

In fact, both were captured at a prison uprising of Taliban forces who had already surrendered. But get this, Hamdi was never charged. He went home to Saudi Arabia. But John is serving a 20-year sentence. Any measure of compassion would suggest a reduction of that sentence. But justice demands it.

So now a group of supporters are fighting to have a known terriorist gain a pardon from the out-going President? You're kidding right?

"Bush has talked of his believe in redemption"

Oh really Mr LameDuck? Redemption for someone who trained, and had a hand in fighting AGAINST this country? As he is a US citizen, that is high treason sir, and that is supposed to be death...

So Yeah, SO's are truly the lowest class of humans. Thanks for reminding us of that...