Hearing set for deployment refuser
By Michelle Tan
Army Times
11 August 06
http://www.armytimes.com/story.php?f=1-292925-2017912.php

First Lt. Ehren Watada, who in June refused to deploy to Iraq because he believes the 
war is illegal, will be given an Article 32 hearing Aug. 17-18 at Fort Lewis, Wash.

The hearing, similar to a civilian grand jury proceeding, will determine whether 
Watada should go to court-martial on charges of missing movement, conduct unbecoming 
an officer and contempt toward officials. The investigating officer who presides 
over the Article 32 will review evidence presented by prosecution and defense attorneys.
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Watada’s Honolulu-based attorney, Eric Seitz, has said his client is willing to 
accept a reprimand, fine and reduction in rank instead of facing a court-martial. 
Army officials have declined to comment on the pretrial proposal. Lt. Gen. James 
Dubik, who commands Fort Lewis, Wash., turned down the deal Aug. 4, The Associated 
Press reported.

Watada, 28, remained at Fort Lewis when his unit, 3rd Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division, 
deployed June 22. The unit is in Mosul, Iraq, and Watada is now assigned to Headquarters 
and Headquarters Company, Special Troops Battalion, I Corps, at Fort Lewis.

The Army has denied his application to resign, and if convicted, Watada could serve more 
than seven years in prison.

The Article 32 begins at 9 a.m. Aug. 17. It is open to the public.