A US Army news release yesterday confirmed that a four—star general officer, General Paul Kern, will take over the investigation of the Abu Ghraib prison mess.  American Thinker readers were alerted to this possibility late last week, when it became known that Lt. Gen. Ricardo Sanchez wanted to recuse himself from the investigation.

Yesterday's report emphasizes that Gen. Kern will investigate the actions of the 205^th Military Intelligence Brigade.  Lt. Gen. Sanchez had placed the 205^th commander in charge of the prison by signing a Fragmentary Order (FRAGO) on November 19, 2003.  Since Sanchez's order, and it's timing, is key in determining the facts in the case, he must be questioned about the matter.  It is inappropriate for the current two—star investigating officer, Maj. Gen. Fay, to question those who outrank him, so Gen. Kern was appointed as the investigating officer.

The Army news piece however, ends on a confusing note.  It states that

Gen. Kern may retain Maj. Gen. George R. Fay as the investigating officer or may appoint another officer after reviewing the current status of the initial investigation.

There were, in fact, three investigations of prisoner abuse at Abu Ghraib, so which 'initial' investigation will Gen. Kern review?  That three investigations were required to motivate Lt. Gen. Sanchez to take action, may possibly be another reason for Gen. Kern's appointment.

Posted by Doug  06 18 04