Pearce introduces bill to “Prohibit Back Pay for Bergdahl”

Category: Non-Local News Releases Non-Local News Releases
Published: 15 November 2017 15 November 2017

Washington, D.C. (November 15, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce today introduced a bill to prohibit the Army from providing Bowe Bergdahl with back pay and special compensation after deserting his post in 2009.

"Bowe Bergdahl risked the lives and safety of countless troops by deserting his post in Afghanistan. Despite his actions and being dishonorably discharged, he will not face jail time. This was a mistake. However, the Army's suggestion that Bergahl may receive back pay and special compensation accumulated during his desertion would be another massive mistake by the Army. Under no circumstances should a man found guilty of desertion – who endangered military personnel for five years looking for him – be eligible to receive taxpayer dollars. For this reason, I'm proud to introduce this bill to ensure Bergdahl receives no special treatment or pay and ensure this is never even a question in the future," stated Rep. Pearce.

Bowe Bergdhal deserted his post in June of 2009. In May 2014, Bergdahl was released and recovered by U.S. Army Special Forces in exchange for five Guantanamo Bay detainees. The U.S. Army charged Bergdahl for desertion and misbehavior before the enemy in March 2015. Earlier this month, he plead guilty for both charges.

This legislation will amend the Uniform Code of Military Justice to prohibit unpaid compensation and benefits from being given to Bowe Bergdahl and other service members who are found guilty of desertion. Additionally, this bill directs the Secretary of Defense to give deserters' back pay to the families of service members whose were killed, injured, or wounded while on search and rescue missions.

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