Decorated Lawmakers Denounce Federal Force on Protesting Veterans

A wave of indignation is sweeping through Capitol Hill as prominent members of Congress, many of whom are highly decorated military veterans themselves, express profound outrage. This follows a report from The Guardian detailing instances where American service members have been arrested or sustained injuries during protests against former President Donald Trump’s immigration enforcement policies and his controversial deployment of the National Guard to U.S. cities.

Congressional Outcry Rises

The sentiment of betrayal and alarm is palpable among those who have served. Representative Jason Crow, a Democrat from Colorado and a former Army Ranger, voiced his dismay. Crow, who earned the Bronze Star for his leadership as a platoon leader with the 82nd Airborne Division during three tours in Iraq, stated, “I went to war three times for this country to defend the right of Americans to say things I may not like. Now is the time for every American to speak out.” His words underscore a deep concern for the fundamental right to protest, particularly when exercised by those who have defended it.

Senator Tammy Duckworth, an Illinois Democrat who received a Purple Heart after her helicopter was shot down over Iraq, echoed Crow’s condemnation. She emphasized the unique sacrifice made by veterans, asserting, “No one – especially those who have already sacrificed so much for this country – should ever be assaulted, detained or thrown in solitary confinement for peacefully protesting government overreach.” Her statement highlights the perceived injustice of federal agents using force against individuals who have already given so much for their nation.

Incidents Sparking Alarm

The Guardian’s investigation brought to light eight specific cases where military veterans have either faced prosecution or sought damages after being detained by federal agents. Among these, two recent incidents from late September have drawn particular scrutiny. Both occurred outside a Chicago-area Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility, where veterans were protesting federal immigration policies.

One incident involved Dana Briggs, a 70-year-old Air Force veteran. Video footage from the scene depicted ICE agents advancing on Briggs, ultimately knocking him to the ground before his arrest. He was subsequently charged with assault. In a separate event at the same location, Afghanistan war veteran John Cerrone was tackled by a group of ICE agents, as captured on another video. Cerrone was then detained, held in solitary confinement for nine hours, and charged with disorderly conduct.

Conflicting Narratives Emerge

Official statements from federal agencies offer a different perspective on these confrontations. The Department of Justice (DOJ) claimed that Briggs committed assault by “made physical contact with an agent’s arm while the agent attempted to extend the safety perimeter.” Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) asserted that Cerrone had picked up a tear gas canister, fired by an ICE agent, and thrown it back earlier in the day.

Senator Duckworth, however, challenged these official narratives, reiterating her stance against the use of excessive force on peaceful demonstrators, especially those who have served their country. The stark contrast between the veterans’ accounts and the federal agencies’ explanations fuels the debate over the appropriate use of force and the protection of constitutional rights during protests.

These incidents have ignited a crucial conversation about the treatment of peaceful protesters, particularly those who have worn the uniform. The calls from decorated lawmakers underscore the gravity of federal actions against veterans exercising their civil liberties, demanding accountability and a reevaluation of enforcement tactics.

Source: The Guardian