Trump Backing “War Fighters” In SEAL Case

WASHINGTON (AP) – President Donald Trump says “I have to protect our war fighters” as he explains his actions in the case of a Navy SEAL accused of war crimes in Iraq.  Chief Petty Officer  Edward Gallagher was acquitted of murder in the stabbing death of an Islamic State militant captive but convicted of posing with the corpse in 2017.  Defense Secretary Mark Esper allowed  Gallagher to retire with his Trident pin, retaining his status as a SEAL. He says he did so at the president’s direction.  Trump said Monday that he is sticking up for members of the armed forces.  Esper fired Navy Secretary Richard Spencer on Sunday, accusing him of secretly offering to the White House to rig the Navy disciplinary process to ensure that Gallagher not lose his Trident.