The Navy has decided to allow three SEALs implicated in a war crimes case stay in the elite commando unit. Meanwhile the ousted Secretary of the Navy sharply criticizes President Trump.
The Pentagon says the Defense Secretary asked for Spencer's resignation after "losing trust and confidence in him." Spencer said President Trump deserved a Navy chief "who is aligned with his views."
The president championed the Navy SEAL's cause and restored him to his former rank. But days later, top Navy officials said Gallagher may lose his standing as a member of the elite fighting force.
The move came after President Trump on Wednesday issued scathing tweets criticizing the prosecution conduct and the Navy's decision to give the awards.
Earlier Wednesday, President Trump congratulated Edward Gallagher and his family on the end of his legal ordeal. In response, they said, "Thank you Mr. President ... for all you have done."
A fellow SEAL had shocked the courtroom by claiming that he, not Edward Gallagher, killed the captive. The jury convicted Gallagher on one charge — posing with the body of the dead prisoner.
Special Warfare Operator 1st Class Corey Scott stunned prosecutors as he described a previously unheard version of events, saying he asphyxiated the teenage Islamic fighter as an act of mercy.
A military judge is allowing the testimony of service members who were injured as a direct result of the searches for Bergdahl, who was captured by the Taliban and held for five years.