Troubling times for the United States Marine Corps as they launch an investigation into a video which appears to show Marines in full combat gear urinating on several dead bodies (Taliban soldiers).
In the extremely graphic video, which appeared on various websites recently, it shows at least 4 male Marines exposing their privates (unfortunately, not their subordinates) and urinate on the dead bodies. The mystery person who posted the video included a caption that reads, "scout sniper team 4 with 3rd battalion 2nd marines out of camp lejeune peeing on dead Talibans."
Now, Captain Kendra N. Hardesty, a Media Officer for the USMC issued a statement that while they have not yet verified the origin or authenticity of the video, the actions portrayed are not consistent with the US Marines core values and are not indicative of the character of the Marines in the Corps. She adds that the matter will be fully investigated and those responsible will be held accountable for their actions." In the video, one of the urinating men can be heard saying, "Have a great day, buddy" while another guy jokes about the situation saying "Golden like a shower."
Personally, it might just be sheer pressure that soldiers experience in the battlefield that warrants such show of complete and utter disrespect to another human being (dead or alive). I've had the chance to watch documentaries that shows what these soldiers go thru everyday in Afghanistan as well as Iraq before pulling out. They are thrown into a war that shows no honor or rules of engagement which often results in casualties rising each day. Their enemy is not from a conventional fighting force but more of a rogue terrorist group that engages in guerrilla tactics to inflict defeat to their foes. In a way this might be a simple release of frustration or pent up anger / despair on the part of a force whose morale has been completely undermined by the cowardly acts of a few misguided radicals. But I would not also agree that the video taken should have been made or leaked which gives rise to more controversies which is not needed at this point in time.
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