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Protesting Vet Faces General Discharge

Marine board acts after antiwar rally; corporal vows to appeal

By Colleen Barry,  Newser Staff

Posted Jun 5, 2007 7:43 AM CDT

(Newser) – In a decision that may hold implications for veterans' free-speech rights, a disciplinary panel has recommended that a decorated Marine who appeared at an antiwar protest in desert fatigues receive a general discharge. Adam Kokesh, who had been honorably discharged from active duty, says the military is using "tactics of intimidation" against the protest group Iraq Veterans Against the War.

Kokesh, who removed his military emblems before the March demonstration, said yesterday he will appeal. A general discharge is a step down from an honorable discharge and connotes "significant negative" conduct but allows the service member to keep his benefits. Kokesh argued that because he wasn't on active duty, the Marine code of conduct does not apply.

Cpl. Adam Kokesh gestures to supporters as head back into his hearing.
Cpl. Adam Kokesh gestures to supporters as head back into his hearing.   (Associated Press)
Marine Corps veteran Adam Kokesh talks with reporters.
Marine Corps veteran Adam Kokesh talks with reporters.   (Associated Press)
Adam Kokesh stands on the steps of the Capitol on Thursday May 31, 2007.
Adam Kokesh stands on the steps of the Capitol on Thursday May 31, 2007.   (Associated Press)
Adam Kokesh is photographed on Thursday May 31, 2007 in Washington.
Adam Kokesh is photographed on Thursday May 31, 2007 in Washington.   (Associated Press)
Cpl. Adam Kokesh talks to members of the media.
Cpl. Adam Kokesh talks to members of the media.   (Associated Press)
Cpl. Adam Kokesh, right, shakes hands with disabled Iraq War veteran Tomas Young as he meets with supporters during Kokesh's hearing at the Marine Corps Mobilization Command Monday, June 4.
Cpl. Adam Kokesh, right, shakes hands with disabled Iraq War veteran Tomas Young as he meets with supporters during Kokesh's hearing at the Marine Corps Mobilization Command Monday, June 4.   (Associated Press)
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