Army charges Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl with desertion

[Star_Cards]

I agree. I am not too concerned with the "unequal trade". When one side values their "property" more than the other, this is what happens in a swap. What concerns me most is the lack of communication between the military and the State Dept? If Bergdahl was "damaged goods" (deserter) and the military was certain about it, why wasn't it conveyed to the people in charge negotiating a swap? Did they only get convincing evidence once he was debriefed? They had plenty of time to do a full investigation of the circumstances in this case. It also baffles me, as to why the "White House event" occurred if there was so much controversy already in the air. Serious lack of judgement on Obama and his PR dept. if these charges are upheld. Even if he beats them, still not the best decision by the PR dept.

good point about the perceived value. I didn't think of it that way.

[duane1969]

good point about the perceived value. I didn't think of it that way.

Except we are talking soldier vs. soldier here. It isn't like we traded 5 low-level flunkies for a 5 star general.

[habsheaven]

Except we are talking soldier vs. soldier here. It isn't like we traded 5 low-level flunkies for a 5 star general.

No, we are talking about how much the US values it's soldiers. So much so they are willing to give up 5 for 1. Think of it this way. How many would YOU trade if your relative was the prisoner? I bet, as many as the kidnappers asked for.

[Star_Cards]

Except we are talking soldier vs. soldier here. It isn't like we traded 5 low-level flunkies for a 5 star general.

I think he was speaking about the US valuing servicemen at a higher rate than terrorists. That is why they were willing to give up more for him.