Lawyers with the Thomas More Law Center, a national public interest law firm based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, which represents Marine LtCol Jeffrey Chessani, uncovered the existence of the extraordinarily unusual oversight body.

“The hysteria and media firestorm over Abu Gharib and the Pat Tillman investigations lead to fear of a similar media reaction to the Haditha incident, causing the military’s civilian bosses to set up this shadow oversight body.  This extraordinary action politicized the military justice system and was a clear signal to top generals that they were expected to hold individuals criminally responsible.  The investigation turned into a quest for a prosecution—not justice,” commented Richard Thompson, President and Chief Counsel of the Law Center. 

The Marines are being prosecuted for their house-to-house battle to ferret out ambushing insurgents on November 19, 2005.  The insurgents fired upon the Marines while hiding amongst women and children.  The ensuing firefight resulted in the deaths of fifteen civilians – a result the insurgents wanted to happen.

Details of the battle and the civilian deaths were dutifully reported throughout the chain of command.  The chain of command, including the top generals, all concluded this was a tragic and unfortunate consequence of urban warfare, but the Marines were justified in their actions of defending themselves. 

Months later, however, a known Al Qaeda propaganda operative instigated an inflammatory Time Magazine article written by reporter Tim McGirk—later proven to be false—calling the deaths of the civilians a “massacre.”  The military initiated at least three investigations as a result. 

Proof that this entire investigation has been a politically motivated quest for a prosecution rather than justice is supported by several details of the investigations, including:

• An admission by the Director of the Naval Criminal Investigation Service (“NCIS”) that over 65 investigators were assigned to the case, which in his opinion was the largest investigative effort in Department’s history.
• Formation of “Legal Team Charlie” composed of military lawyers reassigned from other units and reserve officers activated for the purpose of prosecuting this case—all highly unusual. 
• The Secretary of Navy countermanded a determination by General James Mattis, USMC, that Colonel Stephen Davis, USMC, LtCol Chessani’s regimental commander, would receive a Non-Punitive Letter of Caution, which would not be part of his permanent record.  Gen Mattis’ decision was overridden by the Navy Secretary, who ordered a Letter of Censure, a more severe punishment, which effectively ended this fine Marine officer’s career.  As the consolidated convening authority in all the Haditha investigations, General Mattis’ decision, under normal circumstances, would be absolute and final.

“I am deeply troubled by the fact that the desire to appease the liberal anti-war press and politicians has led to the prosecution of innocent Marines for purely political purposes.  These prosecutions will become a scandal]]> ANN ARBOR, MI - Representative Sally Kern has received over 27,000 vulgar, hate filled e-mails, her life has been threatened, her son falsely accused of being a homosexual, her financial supporters http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=316 Wed, 19 Mar 2008 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=316 ANN ARBOR, MI — Representative Sally Kern has received over 27,000 vulgar, hate filled e-mails, her life has been threatened, her son falsely accused of being a homosexual, her financial supporters contacted and asked to no longer support her, and a leading homosexual activist entered her husband’s church last Sunday and took notes on her husband’s sermon.  At times, as a precaution, a state trooper walks by her side when she enters the State Capitol.

The reason – Representative Kern, an Oklahoma legislator, married to a local Baptist minister, spoke at a public Republican club meeting in which she gave information about the political strategies of activist homosexuals to defeat conservative candidates. Her comments were secretly taped, and appeared as a “You Tube” audio clip.

Representative Kern expressed her concern that the homosexual agenda was destroying our nation, and that young school children were being indoctrinated into believing that the homosexual “life style” is normal.  Her comments caused some of the nation’s largest homosexual groups to target her for political annihilation.

Richard Thompson, President and Chief Counsel of the Thomas More Law Center, a national Christian public interest law firm based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, called Representative Kern “a courageous Christian woman,” and announced today that the Law Center has agreed to represent her in any misguided legal action arising out this controversy.  The Law Center will be assisted by its local affiliated attorney, Bill Kumpe.

Said Thompson, “Representative Kern will not back down, regardless of the attempted hate-mongering intimidation by these national homosexual advocacy groups.  Their actions are right out of a play-book developed by radical homosexual activists in the 1980s to manipulate and intimidate the majority of Americans into accepting the normalcy of the homosexual life style.”

Continued Thompson, “Radical homosexual groups are attempting to curtail Representative Kern’s constitutional rights to free speech, and use that speech as a platform to push for anti-Christian “hate crime” laws.  In effect, their goal is to criminalize Christians and Christian beliefs.” 

Thompson observed, “Her comments represent the view of a majority of Americans.  All you need to do is look at all of the states that have overwhelmingly adopted constitutional amendments or statutes defending traditional marriages from the homosexual agenda.  Christians believe that homosexual acts are acts of grave depravity, contrary to the natural law and under no circumstances can they be approved.  However, Christians also believe one must love the sinner, but hate the sin.”

It is a fact that the radical homosexual groups reach into our schools indoctrinating our children.

• In one Massachusetts school district, without informing parents, kindergarten and first grade students were read the story King and King -- about 2 princes who fall in love and marry.  The last page of the book – undoubtedly shown to the children – ends with a picture of the 2 kings kissing.
  When outraged parents found out, they sued the school district.  Incredibly ─ but not surprisingly ─ the First Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the teacher’s right to read the book saying, “Public schools are not obliged to shield students from ideas which potentially are religiously offensive.”
• A 24-page pro-homosexual booklet is set to be distributed to all 16,000 school districts in the nation. The booklet produced by the National Educatio]]> ANN ARBOR, MI - "Military Judge Colonel Stephen Folsom's, USMC, ruling yesterday refusing our request to take the deposition of Congressman John Murtha, D-PA, is the latest indication that it will be http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=303 Wed, 05 Mar 2008 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=303 ANN ARBOR, MI – “Military Judge Colonel Stephen Folsom’s, USMC, ruling yesterday refusing our request to take the deposition of Congressman John Murtha, D-PA, is the latest indication that it will be impossible for Marine Lt. Colonel Chessani to get a fair trial regarding November 19, 2005, Haditha incident,” said Richard Thompson, Chief Counsel of the Thomas More Law Center, the Ann Arbor, Michigan based public interest law firm defending Lt. Col. Chessani. 

  “This entire prosecution is politically motivated and stinks to high heaven.  Denying us the right to take Murtha’s deposition so that we could show undue command influence, as well as denial of our request for production of documents in the possession of Lt. Col. Chessani’s superiors makes it impossible for us to render this loyal Marine officer the effective assistance of counsel he deserves — they are attempting to throw him under the bus.  In many ways this is a trial like the one in Alice in Wonderland—the verdict first and then the trial.”

  Continued Thompson, “In the next couple of weeks we will reveal startling facts tracing the impetus for this prosecution to the highest levels of military and civilian command.”

  Lt. Col. Jeffrey Chessani is charged with “dereliction of duty” and “orders” violations stemming from the terrorist attack in the once insurgent-laden town of Haditha, Iraq on November 19, 2005.  At the time, Chessani was battalion commander of the Third Battalion, First Marine Regiment – one of the most decorated battalions in our nation’s history.  This battle cost the Marines fourteen casualties – including one Marine killed-in-action.  The insurgents, hiding amongst women and children in civilian homes, caused the death of fifteen civilians as the Marines fought back.

  Months before the investigation was completed, Congressman Murtha made the rounds on TV news programs claiming there was no firefight in Haditha on November 19, 2005, and that the Marines killed innocent Iraqi civilians in “cold blood” and officers “covered it up.” Murtha publicly stated he received his information from the highest levels of the Marine Command – this statement in itself is enough to cause a dismissal of the charges because of undue command influence.

  Congressman Murtha holds significant influence over military appropriations and in the past has boasted he can get the Pentagon to do what he wants.

  Murtha is the same person caught on tape negotiating bribes with Arab Sheiks during the FBI’s 1980 Abscam investigation – he was an un-indicted coconspirator in that case.  Clearly, the Haditha incident provided ammunition for his well known anti-war stance.   

  Murtha also has ties to Navy Secretary Donald Winters.  Winters had over 65 NCIS investigators assigned to investigate Lt. Col. Chessani and the Marines charged in the case.  The NCIS Director claimed that to be the highest number of investigators assigned to an investigation in the history of the NCIS.

  Hearings on the motions ruled on by Colonel Folsom were held February 20, 2008, and Thursday, February 21, 2008.  Law Center attorney Rob Muise and detailed military defense counsel Lt. Colonel John Shelbourne, USMC, presented oral arguments on the five motions at Camp Pendleton, California.

  Lt. Col. Chessani, one of America’s most effective combat commanders in Iraq, now faces dismissal (an officer’s equivalent of a dishonorable discharge), loss of retirement, and imprisonment of up to 3 years.&]]> ANN ARBOR, MI - The Thomas More Law Center, a national legal advocacy group based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, today revealed that it has filed five motions on behalf of Marine LtCol Jeffrey Chessani http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=284 Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=284 ANN ARBOR, MI – The Thomas More Law Center, a national legal advocacy group based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, today revealed that it has filed five motions on behalf of Marine Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Chesssani. 

  The criminal charges stem from a house-to-house, room-by- room, battle that four of his Marines engaged in on November 19, 2005 after being ambushed by insurgents in the town of Haditha, Iraq.  At the time, Chessani was battalion commander of the third battalion first Marine regiment, one of the most decorated battalions in our nation’s history.

  Hearings on the motions will begin on Wednesday morning, February 20, 2008, and should last until Thursday, February 21, 2008.  Law Center attorney Rob Muise and detailed military defense counsel, Lt. Colonel John Shelbourne, USMC, will present oral arguments on the five motions at Camp Pendleton, California, to Military Judge Colonel Stephen Folsom, USMC.

  The Law Center will call several witnesses in support of its motions.  Dramatic testimony is expected from a key witness, Marine intelligence officer, Major Jeffrey Dinsmore.

  The five motions include: a motion to compel the deposition of Congressman John Murtha; a motion to dismiss all of the charges due to their Constitutional vagueness; a motion to dismiss some of the charges because the same allegations have been charged in multiple ways; a motion to compel discovery that the government has kept from the defense because the government deemed it not relevant; and a motion for a new Article 32 Hearing because the last hearing was defective.

  Richard Thompson, President and Chief Counsel of the Law Center commented, “All of these motions filed by the Law Center are important in shaping the battlefield in the courtroom.  Potentially, the case could be thrown out if we prevail on one or some of these motions.” 

  The Law Center has three of its lawyers – all former Marine officers – working on the case: Rob Muise, Brian Rooney and Brandon Bolling.

  Thompson also revealed, “We are scheduled for at least one more motion hearing date, but most likely there will be two more—one in March and another in April.  Of those two dates, we expect to file an ‘unlawful command influence’ motion, and a ‘selective prosecution’ motion, as well as several others.”

  LtCol Jeffrey Chessani, USMC, is charged with “dereliction of duty” and "orders violations" stemming from a running battle in the once insurgent-laden town of Haditha, Iraq on November 19, 2005.   This battle cost the life of one Marine and thirteen other Marines were seriously wounded throughout the day.  The insurgents, hiding amongst women and children in civilian homes from where they ambushed the Marines, caused the death of fifteen civilians as the Marines fought back.

  As a result of a Time magazine story months later, planted by an insurgent propaganda agent, LtCol Chessani, one of America’s most effective combat commanders in Iraq, now faces dismissal (an officer’s equivalent of a dishonorable discharge), loss of retirement, and imprisonment of up to 3 years. 

  The actual court-martial trial is scheduled to begin April 28, 2008.

  The Thomas More Law Center defends and promotes the religious freedom of Christians, time-honored family values, and the sanctity of human life through litigation, education, and related activities.  It does not charge for its services.  The Law Center is supported by contributions from individuals, corporations and foundations, and is recognized by the IRS as a section 501(c)(]]> ANN ARBOR, MI - Maryland Circuit Court Judge William J. Rowan, III, ruled last week that it is permissible to teach 8th and 10th grade Montgomery County public school students how to use condoms http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=264 Tue, 05 Feb 2008 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=264 ANN ARBOR, MI – Maryland Circuit Court Judge William J. Rowan, III, ruled last week that it is permissible to teach 8th and 10th grade Montgomery County public school students how to use condoms during anal and oral sex, as well as that homosexuality is inborn, even though in 2007 Maryland’s highest appellate court ruled there is no scientific basis for such a conclusion. 

  The controversial new curriculum was adopted as a result of pressure by homosexual advocacy groups.

  That sexual orientation is innate, namely, homosexuals are ‘born that way,’ is a theory that has been rejected by courts in several states including Maryland.  Maryland’s highest appellate court issued an opinion in a 2007 civil union case, holding that the proposition that homosexuality is innate is not supported by credible evidence.  In fact, not one U.S. court presented with the issue has found homosexuality to be an innate characteristic.

  The Thomas More Law Center, a national public interest law firm based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, which represents Citizens for a Responsible Curriculum, the Family Leader Network, and the Parents and Friends of Ex-Gays had asked the Judge Rowan to overturn a Maryland Board of Education ruling that approves of public schools in Montgomery County, Maryland to teaching 8th and 10th graders that homosexuals are born that way, and how to use condoms during anal and oral sex.

  274 Montgomery area doctors signed a petition objecting to the curriculum which promotes the notion that the use of condoms prevents disease in anal intercourse.

  Richard Thompson, President and Chief Counsel of the Thomas More Law Center commented, “Judge Rowan’s ruling gives a green light to homosexual groups throughout Maryland to pressure school boards to adopt similar policies.  We will be meeting with our clients next week regarding an appeal.” 

  Montgomery educators defended their new sex curriculum that promotes anal sex, homosexuality, bisexuality and transvestitism despite strong opposition from several pro family groups.            

  Brandon Bolling, the Thomas More Law Center attorney who argued the case, asked Judge Rowan to either declare the curriculum illegal or send it back to the state board of education for another review.  “Maryland law says that you have to teach something that is factually accurate,” said Bolling.  “They are not doing that, therefore it is illegal.”

  The Thomas More Law Center defends and promotes the religious freedom of Christians, time-honored family values, and the sanctity of human life through education, litigation, and related activities.  It does not charge for its services.  The Law Center is supported by contributions from individuals, corporations and foundations, and is recognized by the IRS as a section 501(c)(3) organization.  You may reach the Thomas More Law Center at (734) 827-2001 or visit our website at www.thomasmore.org.

   

  ]]> ANN ARBOR, MI - In oral arguments last week, the Thomas More Law Center asked Maryland state circuit court judge William Rowan III to overturn a Maryland Board of Education ruling that approves of http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=259 Tue, 22 Jan 2008 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=259 ANN ARBOR, MI – In oral arguments last week, the Thomas More Law Center asked Maryland state circuit court judge William Rowan III to overturn a Maryland Board of Education ruling that approves of public schools in Montgomery County, Maryland, teaching 8th and 10th graders that homosexuality is innate—meaning they are born that way.  The schools also show how to use condoms in anal and oral sex.

  The Thomas More Law Center, a national public interest law firm based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, represents Citizens for a Responsible Curriculum, the Family Leader Network, and the Parents and Friends of Ex-Gays.  John Garza, of Garza, Regan & Associates of Rockville, Maryland, is acting as local counsel.

  Montgomery educators were forced to defend their new sex curriculum that promotes anal sex, homosexuality, bisexuality and transvestitism despite strong opposition from several pro-family groups.  The controversial new curriculum was adopted as a result of pressure by homosexual advocacy groups.

  Richard Thompson, President and Chief Counsel of the Thomas More Law Center, commented, “This is another example of our public school system being used as an indoctrination arm of homosexual advocacy groups.  Promoting the use of condoms in anal and oral sex not only violates Maryland law and court decisions, but endangers the health of any student who tries it.  Moreover, teaching students that homosexuals are ‘born that way’ is contrary to the rulings of the Maryland’s highest court and court decisions of other states as well.”

  “The bottom line — this school system is guilty of educational malpractice,” said Thompson.

  This challenge to the new sex education curriculum has been in litigation for six years, meandering through the Federal District Courts, Maryland Administrative Panels and finally winding up in front of Judge Rowan III.  Initially, a Federal District Court enjoined the county schools from implementing the curriculum in 2005 because the lesson plan criticized religious “fundamentalism.”   

  However, following the federal court ruling and injunction, the county board merely omitted the anti-religious references, and began teaching the controversial health curriculum to all 8th and 10th grade classes.  The current case involves a judicial appeal of the final State Board decision under a Maryland law that allows final administrative denials to be challenged in the state circuit court.    

  Brandon Bolling, the Thomas More Law Center attorney who argued the case, asked Judge Rowan to either declare the curriculum illegal or send it back to the state board for another review.  “Maryland law says you have to teach something that is factually accurate,” said Bolling.  “They are not doing that, therefore it is illegal.”

  That sexual orientation is innate—homosexuals are born that way—is a theory that has been rejected by courts in several states including Maryland.  Maryland’s highest appellate court  issued an opinion in a 2007 civil union case, holding the proposition that homosexuality is innate is not supported by credible evidence.  In fact, not one U.S. court presented with the issue has found homosexuality to be an innate characteristic.

  Moreover, although state law does not define the word “erotic,” Bolling argued that a Maryland law which prohibits classroom material that “portrays erotic techniques of sexual intercourse,” makes video demonstrations of the use of condoms in anal and oral sex illegal.  Bolli]]> As your family prepares for Christmas, with all of the joy and busyness that it entails, please take time to remember and honor our military men and women who are far from home this Christmas... http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=202 Thu, 06 Dec 2007 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=202 As your family prepares for Christmas, with all of the joy and busyness that it entails, please take time to remember and honor our military men and women who are far from home this Christmas.  Because of their sacrifice, we are able to spend this blessed holiday safely at home.  Please pray for them, and for their families.

  A few years ago, a patriotic American, Sally Mudd, wrote a song to honor our soldiers.  Her song is particularly meaningful and moving during the Christmas season.  Listen to The Soldier Song now, and visit Sally's website for the lyrics, or to download the song to share.

  TMLC asks that you especially remember the Chessani family.  During this Christmas season, please consider the many Christmases Lt. Col. Jeffrey Chessani was away from his family defending our nation so that we could safely be with ours. Express your gratitude to him by becoming a part of his defense fund now, and above all, please keep the Chessanis in your prayers. 

             

  
  ]]> ANN ARBOR, MI - Jane Denton, the wife of Vietnam War hero and former U. S. Senator from Alabama-Admiral Jeremiah A. Denton, USN (Ret)-passed away on November 22, 2007 at the age of 81. Jane Denton http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=177 Tue, 27 Nov 2007 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=177 ANN ARBOR, MI – Jane Denton, the wife of Vietnam War hero and former U. S. Senator from Alabama—Admiral Jeremiah A. Denton, USN (Ret)—passed away on November 22, 2007 at the age of 81. 

  Jane Denton was a tireless advocate for prisoners of war. She helped found the nationally-recognized advocacy group, “National League of Families of Prisoners of War and Missing in Action,” in the 1960s after her husband was captured during the Vietnam War and imprisoned for eight years.  Her efforts were credited for helping to obtain humane treatment and the ultimate release of American prisoners.

  “Her children remember her as the most faithful, selfless and dedicated wife and mother that any of us can aspire to be,” her son, Michael Denton, said. “She cherished the people of Mobile, Alabama, her Catholic faith and her Navy family.”  The couple raised seven children.

  She will be buried at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, D.C.  Jane Denton is survived by her husband; seven children, Jeremiah Denton III of Virginia Beach, VA, Donald Denton of Philadelphia, James Denton of Washington, D.C., William Denton of Williamsburg, VA, Madeleine Doak of Houston, TX, Michael Denton of Richmond, VA, and Mary Denton Lewis of Atlanta, GA; one sister, Madeleine McPhillips of Mobile, AL; 14 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

  As a POW, Admiral Denton made national headlines for an incident in 1966 when he was being interviewed on North Vietnamese television.  He spelled out the words "torture" by blinking in Morse code to let American intelligence officials know what was happening to the prisoners.  

  Admiral Denton is the current Chairman of the Thomas More Law Center Citizens Advisory Board.

  Richard Thompson, President and Chief Counsel of the Thomas More Law Center stated, “Admiral Denton represents everything good about America — he is a heroic patriot, a devoted husband and father, and a faithful Christian.   His wife, Jane Denton, represented all of that and more.  In many ways, Jane Denton, was as heroic as her husband in her support and advocacy for him and other prisoners while they were being held captive by the communist Vietnamese government.  She will forever be remembered for her loving devotion to her family, faith, and this country.  We at the Thomas More Law Center mourn her passing, but celebrate her life knowing that she is with the Angels.”

  The Thomas More Law Center defends and promotes the religious freedom of Christians, time-honored family values, and the sanctity of human life through education, litigation, and related activities.  It does not charge for its services.  The Law Center is supported by contributions from individuals, corporations and foundations, and is recognized by the IRS as a section 501(c)(3) organization.  You may reach the Thomas More Law Center at (734) 827-2001 or visit our website at www.thomasmore.org.                                             

  ]]> ANN ARBOR, MI - Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Chessani, USMC, will be arraigned in a Camp Pendleton courtroom on Friday, November 16, 2007, at 9:00 AM Pacific Standard Time almost two years to the date http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=164 Thu, 15 Nov 2007 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=164 ANN ARBOR, MI – Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Chessani, USMC, will be arraigned in a Camp Pendleton courtroom on Friday, November 16, 2007, at 9:00 AM Pacific Standard Time almost two years to the date of the anniversary of the so-called “Haditha Massacre.” 

  Chessani faces criminal charges that he failed to properly report and investigate a possible “law of war” violation stemming from a November 19, 2005, house-to-house battle involving four Marines from LtCol Chessani’s battalion.  If convicted, LtCol Chessani faces 2 ½ years imprisonment, dismissal (dishonorable discharge) from the Marine Corps, and loss of all retirement benefits. 

  The Thomas More Law Center is representing LtCol Chessani alongside the detailed military defense lawyers.  LtCol Chessani is a 20 year veteran and the father of 5 young children (expecting a sixth shortly), who served in the Panama Invasion, the Persian Gulf War, and three tours in Iraq, including the Second Battle of Fallujah.

  Richard Thompson, President and Chief Counsel of the Law Center, commented, “Every patriotic American has a stake in the outcome of this case.  A U.S. Army Colonel and an Army General conducted two separate investigations, and came to the same conclusion:  there was no ‘massacre’ and no ‘cover-up.’  Yet the government still pursued a multi-million dollar investigation in order to appease an anti-war politician and the ‘blame America first’ media. Now, we have the absurd situation of LtCol Chessani being charged with failing to report and investigate a crime that never occurred.  Every American should be outraged at the way this dedicated Marine and his family are being treated by the nation he so loyally defended.”

  The charges against LtCol Chessani were incited by an inflammatory Time magazine headline accusing Marine enlisted men of “massacring innocent civilians.”  The story was planted by known terrorist propaganda operatives, and has since been discredited.  Anti-war Congressman John Murtha, who holds major influence over military appropriations, in an unprecedented action publicly accused Marine officers of a “cover-up” and enlisted  men of killing “in cold-blood” even before the investigation of the incident was completed.  Subsequent investigations have specifically found no “cover-up” at any level of command, and have exonerated several of the Marines involved.

  The Thomas More Law Center defends and promotes the religious freedom of Christians, time-honored family values, and the sanctity of human life through education, litigation, and related activities.  It does not charge for its services.  The Law Center is supported by contributions from individuals, corporations and foundations, and is recognized by the IRS as a section 501(c)(3) organization.  You may reach the Thomas More Law Center at (734) 827-2001 or visit our website at www.thomasmore.org.

  ]]> http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=160 Mon, 12 Nov 2007 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=160 Throughout our history, America has been protected by patriots who cherished liberty and made great sacrifices to advance the cause of freedom. The brave members of the United States Armed Forces have answered the call to serve our Nation, ready to give all for their country. On Veterans Day, we honor these extraordinary Americans for their service and sacrifice, and we pay tribute to the legacy of freedom and peace that they have given our great Nation.

  In times of war and of peace, our men and women in uniform stepped forward to defend their fellow citizens and the country they love. They shouldered great responsibility and lived up to the highest standards of duty and honor. Our veterans held fast against determined and ruthless enemies and helped save the world from tyranny and terror. They ensured that America remained what our founders meant her to be: a light to the nations, spreading the good news of human freedom to the darkest corners of the earth.

  Like the heroes before them, today a new generation of men and women are fighting for freedom around the globe. Their determination, courage, and sacrifice are laying the foundation for a more secure and peaceful world.

  Veterans Day is dedicated to the extraordinary Americans who protected our freedom in years past, and to those who protect it today. They represent the very best of our Nation. Every Soldier, Sailor, Airman, Marine, and Coast Guardsman has earned the lasting gratitude of the American people, and their service and sacrifice will be remembered forever. In the words of Abraham Lincoln: " . . . let us strive on to finish the work we are in, to bind up the Nation's wounds, to care for him who shall have borne the battle . . . ." On this Veterans Day, I ask all Americans to express their appreciation to our Nation's veterans.

  With respect for and in recognition of the contributions our service men and women have made to the cause of peace and freedom around the world, the Congress has provided (5 U.S.C. 6103(a)) that November 11 of each year shall be set aside as a legal public holiday to honor our Nation's veterans.

  NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim November 11, 2007, as Veterans Day and urge all Americans to observe November 11 through November 17, 2007, as National Veterans Awareness Week. I encourage all Americans to recognize the valor and sacrifice of our veterans through ceremonies and prayers. I call upon Federal, State, and local officials to display the flag of the United States and to support and participate in patriotic activities in their communities. I invite civic and fraternal organizations, places of worship, schools, businesses, unions, and the media to support this national observance with commemorative expressions and programs.

  IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirty-first day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand seven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-second.

  GEORGE W. BUSH

  ]]> ANN ARBOR, MI - The Thomas More Law Center, a national Christian legal advocacy group, announced today it is reinvigorating the "Lieutenant Colonel Chessani Defense Fund" in order to fully prepare for http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=159 Mon, 12 Nov 2007 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=159 ANN ARBOR, MI – The Thomas More Law Center, a national Christian legal advocacy group, announced today it is reinvigorating the “Lieutenant Colonel Chessani Defense Fund” in order to fully prepare for the upcoming general courts-martial for LtCol Chessani.  The defense fund was originally set up in response to the flood of calls and emails from people wishing to support this Marine Corps officer in his politicized legal battle. 

  Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Chessani is accused of criminal wrong-doing in the high profile case arising out of a terrorist ambush in Haditha, Iraq, on November 19, 2005, in which one Marine was killed and several others wounded.  As Marines moved in on the attacking terrorists who were firing from nearby homes, several civilians were tragically killed.

  Months later, after inflammatory media articles and comments by an antiwar politician, LtCol Chessani, the battalion commander of the Marines involved in the fighting, was accused of failing to properly report and investigate the incident.

  He faces a maximum punishment of two and a half years in prison, dismissal (an officer’s equivalent of a dishonorable discharge), and the loss of his retirement benefits. 

  The Thomas More Law Center, based in Ann Arbor, MI, agreed to represent LtCol Chessani at no charge.

  Richard Thompson, President and Chief Counsel of the Law Center commented, “LtCol Chessani is a devout family man and Christian, who dutifully defended our country for twenty years, including three tours in Iraq, Panama, and the Persian Gulf War.  His expectant wife and five young children should not have to worry about finances to ensure that he receives the best defense possible.  I can think of no better way to honor a veteran than by helping in the defense of this worthy veteran.”

  Law Center spokesperson Brian Rooney stated, “LtCol Chessani has dedicated his life to the service of his country.  Had LtCol Chessani hired a private for-profit law firm to represent him, his legal bills would be approaching a million dollars at the end of the day – certainly out of reach for a career military man with five young children and a sixth on the way.”

  “It is unfortunate that LtCol Chessani is being made a political scapegoat,” added Rooney.

  Rooney is asking once again for concerned Americans to help defend LtCol Chessani: “You can be a direct help in his defense by mailing a donation to the Thomas More Law Center at 24 Frank Lloyd Wright Drive, P.O. Box 393, Ann Arbor MI 48106, or by simply visiting our website (www.thomasmore.org) and clicking on the ‘LtCol Chessani Defense Fund’ icon.  Please indicate your donation is for the ‘Defense Fund.’”

  The Law Center, working with assigned military defense counsel, has already worked through the first part of the court-martial process at the Article 32 Hearing, the military’s version of the grand jury.  A tentative date for the general court-martial is set for April 28, 2008.  There will be an arraignment and several motion hearing dates from now until the April 2008 date.

  The two Law Center attorneys assigned to handle the case, Robert Muise and Brian Rooney, are both former Marine officers.  Muise is a former infantry officer and judge advocate who served in the Persian Gulf War, and Rooney is a former judge advocate and Iraq War veteran.  Brandon Bolling, who recently joined the Law Center will be consulting on the case.  Brandon is a former Marine Judge Advocate and veteran of Afghanistan and Africa.

  The Thomas]]> ANN ARBOR, MI - The Thomas More Law Center announced today that the trial of Marine Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Chessani, one of America's most effective combat commanders in Iraq, is preliminarily http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=148 Thu, 08 Nov 2007 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=148 Iraqi Insurgents Handed a Victory 

  ANN ARBOR, MI  ─ The Thomas More Law Center announced today that the trial of Marine Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Chessani, one of America’s most effective combat commanders in Iraq, is preliminarily scheduled to begin on April 28, 2008.  LtCol Chessani is charged with failing to accurately report and investigate an incident that occurred in Haditha, Iraq on November 19, 2005, dubbed “the Haditha massacre.”

  If convicted – this 20 year veteran and father of 5 young children (and a sixth expected shortly) who served 3 tours of duty in Iraq (in addition to Panama and the Persian Gulf War) – will be dismissed from the Marine Corps, lose all of his retirement benefits, and face 2 ½ years in prison.   

  Lawyers with the Thomas More Law Center, a national public interest law firm based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, are representing LtCol Chessani alongside his detailed military attorneys. 

  Richard Thompson, President and Chief Counsel of the Law Center, commented, “The Marines defended themselves from hostile fire as they were trained and authorized.  That Lt. Colonel Chessani must now face a trial for their actions is both tragic and absurd.  He is being tried for not investigating a crime that we now know never occurred.”

  Continued Thompson, “Our own government has handed the insurgents a victory by removing one of our most effective combat leaders from the battle.  This investigation has imperiled the lives of our troops who, in making split-second decisions whether to defend themselves, now have to consider that lawyers with the benefit of 20/20 hindsight will examine their actions under a legal microscope.”

  The charges against Chessani were incited by an inflammatory Time magazine headline accusing Marine enlisted men of “massacring innocent civilians.” The story was planted by known terrorist propaganda operatives, and has since been discredited. Anti-war Congressman John Murtha, with influence over military appropriations, in an unprecedented action, publicly accused Marine officers of a “cover-up” and enlisted men of killing civilians in “cold blood.” 

  Two separate investigations by U.S. Army officers, one by a Colonel and another by a General, found no evidence of “a massacre” or that officers “covered-up” the incident. A subsequent Article 32 Investigation by a Marine Investigating Officer, LtCol Ware, also found no evidence of a “massacre” or “cover-up.”

  The charges against LtCol Chessani stem from the actions of four Marines who came under fire from a coordinated al Qaeda-led ambush in Haditha, Iraq, on November 19, 2005.  Shortly after 7 a.m., an improvised explosive device detonated under one of the 4 Humvees accompanying a supply convoy, immediately killing one Marine and injuring two others.  At the same time, the Marines came under fire from nearby homes.  A four-man Marine fire team was ordered to clear the houses occupied by the insurgents. In the ensuing house-to-house firefight, the Marines tragically killed 15 civilians.   

  As Battalion commander of the Third Battalion, First Marines – one of the most decorated Units in the Marine Corps – LtCol Chessani had over 2,000 men in his command with an area of responsibility just under the size of South Carolina. LtCol Chessani was not at the scene of the firefight that prompted the charges against him.  LtCol Chessani later traveled to the various battle scenes to investigate.

  The]]> ANN ARBOR, MI -The Thomas More Law Center, a national public interest law firm based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, asked all Christians today to join the Catholic League's national boycott of Miller Brewing http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=113 Fri, 12 Oct 2007 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=113 ANN ARBOR, MI —The Thomas More Law Center, a national public interest law firm based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, asked all Christians today to join the Catholic League’s national boycott of Miller Brewing Company for its despicable anti-Christian ad promoting the Folsom Street Fair, an open-air pagan sex orgy featuring homosexual depravity at its most base in San Francisco. 

  The offending ad depicts a sadomasochistic poster mocking DaVinci’s “The Last Supper.” The poster features the Miller logo, half-naked homosexuals in leathers and chains seated around the table adorned with various sex toys. 

  Internet photos of the Fair show naked men publicly performing oral sex and all kinds of sadomasochistic acts on one another.  For a collection of the more mild photos, you may visit the Catholic League’s website to judge for yourself.  Bear in mind that these are the more mild photos.

  Richard Thompson, President and Chief Counsel of the Thomas More Law Center, commented, “The depraved sexual acts performed in public and in front of children were truly obscene.  Where were the police?  Where were the public officials?  Clearly, lunatic liberals are controlling city government.  Moreover, I’m surprised by the adamant anti-Christian direction taken by Miller Brewing that has placed it on a collision course with Christians.”

  Bill Donohue, president of the Catholic League, who is marshalling the leaders of all faiths, observed that monies raised at the “Fair” were being funneled to a notoriously anti-Catholic transvestite group, “the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence.” 

  Continued Thompson, “I want to thank the ‘Catholic League’ and ‘Concerned Women for America’ for bringing this matter to the public’s attention.”

  The Thomas More Law Center defends and promotes the religious freedom of Christians, time-honored family values, and the sanctity of human life through education, litigation, and related activities.  It does not charge for its services.  The Law Center is supported by contributions from individuals, corporations and foundations, and is recognized by the IRS as a section 501(c)(3) organization.  You may reach the Thomas More Law Center at (734) 827-2001 or visit our website at www.thomasmore.org.

  ]]> The Thomas More Law Center, a national public interest law firm based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, today announced the appointment of former Marine Major Brandon M. Bolling as its newest Trial Counsel. http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=93 Mon, 24 Sep 2007 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=93 ANN ARBOR, MI – The Thomas More Law Center, a national public interest law firm based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, today announced the appointment of former Marine Major Brandon M. Bolling as its newest Trial Counsel. 

  As a Marine, Bolling served as a Judge Advocate in a wide variety of assignments, including two hostile fire/combat zone tours during Operation Enduring Freedom.  He prosecuted and defended many high profile military criminal cases which garnered national media attention.  The story behind one of his criminal cases became a bestselling novel. Brandon’s military education includes Officer Candidates School, The Basic School, Naval Justice School, and Expeditionary Warfare School.

  Bolling reports directly to Richard Thompson, President and Chief Counsel of the Law Center.  On this new appointment, Thompson commented, “He’s a great addition to our staff.  Brandon has already demonstrated his faith, love of country, proficiency as a lawyer and commitment to our mission.  He served his country well as a Marine – he will continue to serve his country on behalf of Christians on a new battlefield – the courts.  I have a bias for lawyers with combat backgrounds, and hope to add more as the funds become available.  They make great lawyers in the Culture War.”

  A Michigan native, Bolling received a B.A. in Political Science from Michigan State University in 1995.  While a student, he joined the United States Marine Corps and was commissioned a Second Lieutenant.  As a law student, Bolling also worked as a full-time clerk for a large Farmington Hills law firm.  In 1999, he completed his Juris Doctorate at the University of Detroit-Mercy School of Law.

  Brandon Bolling served eleven years as a Marine, attaining the rank of Major.  He received seventeen medals and decorations for his distinguished military service. Brandon was regularly sought out by peers and the media for his opinion on a wide variety of legal issues.

  Brandon is a dedicated husband and proud father of three children.  He and his family relocated to Michigan from Rhode Island in order to establish permanent roots and begin his work with the Law Center. 

  Said Bolling, “I accepted this position at the Thomas More Law Center to help defend attacks upon traditional American values and the foundational principles of the United States Constitution.”

  Two other Law Center attorneys, Robert Muise and Brian Rooney, are former Marine officers who served combat tours as well. Muise is a former Marine infantry officer veteran of the first Persian Gulf War and a former Judge Advocate who joined the Law Center in 2000.  Rooney is a Marine veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom and a former Judge Advocate.  Rooney joined the Law Center in the Fall of 2006, shortly after returning from a combat tour in Iraq.  Both Muise and Rooney have been actively involved in the defense of Lt. Colonel Jeffrey Chessani, the highest ranking Marine officer charged in the so-called “Haditha Massacre.” 

  The Law Center is defending Chessani without charge.  To assist with deferring the costs of litigation, the Thomas More Law Center has set up a fund called “LtCol Chessani Defense Fund.” You can visit the Law Center’s website (www.thomasmore.org) to make a donation to this worthy cause.

  The Thomas More Law Center defends and promotes the religious freedom of Christians, time-honored family values, and the sanctity of human life through education, litigation, and related activities.  It does not charge for its services.  The Law Center]]> ANN ARBOR, MI - When President Bush was recently asked about Iraq, he told the Australian Deputy Prime Minister, "We're kicking ass." Despite the exoneration of Marines actually involved in the fight http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=69 Thu, 06 Sep 2007 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=69 ANN ARBOR, MI – When President Bush was recently asked about Iraq, he told the Australian Deputy Prime Minister, “We’re kicking ass.”  Despite the exoneration of Marines actually involved in the fighting in Haditha on November 19, 2005, three senior Marine officers, MajGen Richard Huck, Col Robert Sokoloski, and Col Stephen Davis have been administratively censured by the Secretary of the Navy for their involvement in the Haditha events.  During the time of the incident, MajGen Huck was the Commanding General of the 2d Marine Division, Col Sokoloski was the division’s Chief of Staff, and Col Davis was the Commanding Officer of Regimental Combat Team-2, which was part of the division.

  The Thomas More Law Center is defending Marine Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Chessani against charges of dereliction of duty arising out of the Haditha incident.  LtCol Chessani was the Commanding Officer of the 3rd Battalion, 1st Marines, one of the subordinate commands under Maj Gen Huck and Col Davis. 

  Richard Thompson, President and Chief Counsel of the Thomas More Law Center stated, “The Secretary of the Navy has sacrificed three senior, combat-experienced warriors on the altar of political expediency to appease anti-war politicians and the liberal media.  These Marines, who have dedicated their lives in defense of our country, deserve better.  It’s insanity; it will turn combat commanders into ‘paper pushers’ and will have far-reaching deleterious effect on the fighting spirit of Marines on the ground.”

  The Thomas More law Center has received information that these “letters of censure” were delivered to the three senior officers on the same day they were told they would be receiving them.  All three officers were surprised by this action from the Secretary of the Navy. 

  Brian Rooney, an attorney at the Law Center and a former Marine officer commented, “We at the Thomas More Law Center have always said that LtCol Chessani reported to his superior officers what he knew, when he knew it.  At the very least, the language of the censorship is an acknowledgment of the fact that LtCol Chessani did report what happened on 19 November 2005.  Also, as the government’s own expert witness on the law of war testified at LtCol Chessani’s Article 32 Hearing, it is the responsibility of higher commands to determine if a formal investigation is needed.  These men all concluded that a formal investigation was not required.  However, it is odd that the Marine Corps has decided to publicly censure these good men who have dedicated their lives to the service of their Corps and country when the recent Article 32 facts are turning out to be what these men on the ground believed them to be—a hard fought battle—not a massacre.  The Secretary of the Navy is essentially censuring these men for not investigating a crime that never occurred.”

  The decision to launch a criminal investigation of the November 19 incident was made three months after its occurrence as a result of a Time Magazine news lead, which military commanders in the field knew was instigated by terrorist propaganda.

  Congressman John Murtha, an outspoken anti-war critic and chairman of the House military appropriations subcommittee, months before the investigation was completed, publicly accused the four Marines of being “cold-blooded murderers” and high-ranking officers of “covering it up.”   The censure letters do confirm that there was no “cover-up” by any of the officers involved.  The Thomas More Law Center still plans on looking at all of its legal options]]> http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=36 Wed, 05 Sep 2007 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=36 ANN ARBOR, MI – Dr. D. James Kennedy, an internationally renowned Presbyterian minister, religious broadcaster, and Christian warrior, passed away early Wednesday morning.  He was 76. 

  Longtime pastor of the Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Kennedy preached his last sermon on Christmas Eve 2006.  Four days later, he suffered a cardiac arrest and had been unable to return to the pulpit since.  On August 26, 2007, Coral Ridge Ministries announced Kennedy’s retirement as senior pastor.

  After arriving at the modest mission church of 45 people known as Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church in 1959, Dr. Kennedy transformed it into 10,000-member Christian epicenter, with services broadcast to three million Americans and 200 nations.  In addition, his commitment to cultural renewal and evangelism led Dr. Kennedy to found several organizations focused on training Christians to carry the Gospel into all parts of society. 

  “Dr. Kennedy was a true Christian leader for our time, and we are grateful for his example, wisdom, and uncompromising commitment to spreading the Kingdom of God.  He was an outspoken foe of the ACLU and activist judges who were de-Christianizing our nation.  He will be missed,” said Richard Thompson, President and Chief Counsel of the Thomas More Law Center.

  The Thomas More Law Center defends and promotes the religious freedom of Christians, time-honored family values, and the sanctity of human life through education, litigation, and related activities.  It does not charge for its services.  The Law Center is supported by contributions from individuals, corporations and foundations, and is recognized by the IRS as a section 501(c)(3) organization.  You may reach the Thomas More Law Center at (734) 827-2001 or visit our website at www.thomasmore.org.

  ]]> ANN ARBOR, MI - The Thomas More Law Center, a national public interest law firm based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, announced today that its West Coast Director, San Diego area attorney, Charles LiMandri, f http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=19 Tue, 28 Aug 2007 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=19 ANN ARBOR, MI – The Thomas More Law Center, a national public interest law firm based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, announced today that its West Coast Director, San Diego area attorney, Charles LiMandri, filed a sexual harassment and freedom of speech complaint  in California state court on behalf of four respected San Diego firefighters.  Charles LiMandri was also the Thomas More Law Center’s lead counsel in the successful Mt. Soledad Cross case in San Diego.  

  In July, four San Diego firefighters were ordered, against their wishes, to participate in uniform on their city fire engine in San Diego’s annual “Gay Pride” parade.  During the course of the ensuing three hour long ordeal, the firefighters were subjected to vile sexual taunts and gestures along the parade route.  These firemen are devoted husbands and fathers.  All four firemen are Christian and two are Catholic.

  Charles LiMandri explains filing the complaint in state court, “These men were sexually harassed in clear violation of San Diego’s sexual harassment code.  Further, the California Constitution’s freedom of speech provision prohibits compelled speech.  What the firefighters were ordered to do was endorse what goes on at this parade through their participation in it.”

  Brian Rooney, spokesman for the Thomas More Law Center stated, “In one regard, forcing these firefighters to participate in this parade has removed the artificial veneer of legitimacy from this event to expose it for what it truly is—a  temporary suspension of decency laws in the name of inclusion and diversity.  The debauched and decadent conduct at this parade clearly violates municipal codes that prohibit public nudity and obscenity.  The City has played make believe long enough.” 

  Thompson further added, “There is a transvestite group dressed up as nuns that marches in this parade every year in crude mockery of the Catholic faith.  No other religion would be treated this way.  And for the City of San Diego to sponsor such an event and for its political leaders to endorse such behavior by their presence is outrageous. Two of the firefighters who are Catholic were forced to endorse such mockery of their faith by being forced to participate in the parade.”

  The so-called “gay pride” parade took place on July 21, 2007 in San Diego.  On July 20, 2007, the four firefighters in question were told by their superiors that they would be participating in the parade.  All four repeatedly protested that they did not wish to participate.  On the morning of July 21, 2007, however, these same four firefighters were ordered to ride on a fire engine, in uniform, in the parade.     

  LiMandri commented, “Our complaint will show that this is not the first time that firefighters were ordered into this parade against their will and complained to the fire department.    One of the main reasons for this complaint is so that no firefighter will again be forced to participate in a parade that is so sexually charged that it creates a hostile work environment.  The City should be concentrating the fire department’s efforts on working the parade and respondin]]> http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=15 Tue, 07 Aug 2007 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=15 ANN ARBOR, MI - The ordered reopening of Lt. Colonel Jeffrey Chessani’s Article 32 Hearing scheduled to begin this Wednesday, without making any of the requested defense witnesses available, has been called “a sham” by the Thomas More Law Center. The order for a new hearing limited the hearing to only three days, beginning on Wednesday, August 8, 2007, and ending no later than Friday August 10, 2007. The impending clash is connected to the refusal of Government prosecutors to present any evidence or make any of the 13 military witnesses requested by the Law Center available. Under military law, defense attorneys have no authority to compel the attendance of witnesses at this stage of the proceedings.

  At the end of Lt. Colonel Jeffrey Chessani’s original Article 32 Hearing, the Investigating Officer agreed to add additional charges at the prosecutors’ request, characterizing the additions as merely “refinements” to the old charges. However, as a result of detailed written objections by Thomas More Law Center attorneys to the Investigating Officer’s recommendations for a general court-martial (that included the additional charges), and a follow-up meeting with the convening authority, Lt. General Mattis, the Article 32 Hearing was ordered reopened to receive evidence concerning the new charges.

  Recently, prosecutors have informed the Law Center defense attorneys that the government will not provide any military witnesses or new evidence for the re-opened Article 32 Hearing.

  Richard Thompson, President and Chief Counsel of the Thomas More Law Center, and a 24 year former county prosecutor pointed out, “The government’s refusal to make any of our requested witnesses available makes the new hearing nothing but a sham.”

  Brian Rooney, a former Marine lawyer and current Director of Communications at the Law Center commented, “It was clear to any objective observer of the original Article 32 Hearing that the charges against Lt. Colonel Chessani would not hold up at court-martial. These so-called ‘refinements’ are in my opinion a desperate attempt to find some way to hold our client criminally liable for doing his duty.”

  The Law Center has asked the Investigating Officer to rule on their requested witnesses’ availability. If the Investigating Officer does not rule in the Law Center’s favor, the Law Center will ask Lt. General Mattis to intervene again. Thompson added, “This is but another indication that the government’s mission in this case is not to seek justice but to turn a nineteen year combat veteran—who has honorably served his country—into a political scapegoat. Lt. Colonel Chessani and America deserve better.”

  The Thomas More Law Center defends and promotes the religious freedom of Christians, time-honored family values, and the sanctity of human life through education, litigation, and related activities. It does not charge for its services. The Law Center is supported by contributions from individuals, corporations and foundations, and is recognized by the IRS as a section 501(c)(3) organization. You may reach the Thomas More Law Center at (734) 827-2001 or visit our website at www.thomasmore.org.

  ]]> ANN ARBOR, MI - Four respected San Diego firefighters were ordered, against their wishes, to participate in uniform on their city fire truck in the city's annual "Gay Pride" parade. During the course http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=12 Mon, 06 Aug 2007 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=12 *WARNING EXPLICIT SEXUAL CONTENT*  

  ANN ARBOR, MI – Four respected San Diego firefighters were ordered, against their wishes, to participate in uniform on their city fire truck in the city’s annual “Gay Pride” parade. During the course of the ensuing three hour long ordeal, the firefighters were subjected to vile sexual taunts from homosexuals lining the parade route. This included the following statements: “show me your hose,” “you can put out my fire,” “you’re making me hot,” “give me mouth-to-mouth,” “you look hungry, why don’t you have a twinkie (from a man wearing a “Girth and Mirth” t-shirt),” and “blow my hose.” These firemen are devoted husbands and fathers. When they refused to respond to the crowd, some in the crowd turned hostile and started shouting, “F—k you firemen” and others began “flipping them off.”

  San Diego area attorney, Charles LiMandri, the West Coast Director of the Thomas More Law Center, a national public interest law firm based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, is representing the firefighters in their legal claims against the city. LiMandri was also the lead counsel in the successful Mt. Soledad Cross case in San Diego. A 52 year native San Diegan, LiMandri stated: “What happened to these dedicated public servants was inexcusable. The City should have known from past experience the kind of offensive activities that go on at this event. This was a clear case of sexual harassment in violation of state and federal law as well as the City’s own code of conduct.”

  Richard Thompson, President and Chief Counsel of the Thomas More Law Center added, “These firefighters dedicated their lives to save the lives of others. They did not sign on to become unwilling props to a controversial political and social agenda.”

  Continued Thompson, “The constitutional right to free speech also protects the right not to speak. These men should not have to explain to their families, friends and church congregations that their presence at a celebration of lewdness and obscenity in support of the homosexual agenda was because they were forced there by way of a direct order. This is a clear violation of their constitutional rights, and the City must be held accountable. It should never happen again to any city employ]]> A public school district's program promoting anal sex, homosexuality, bisexuality, and transvestitism as normal sexual variations was recently approved by the Maryland State Board of Education http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=7 Wed, 01 Aug 2007 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=7 ANN ARBOR, MI – A public school district’s program promoting anal sex, homosexuality, bisexuality, and transvestitism as normal sexual variations was recently approved by the Maryland State Board of Education despite strenuous opposition from several pro-family groups. Montgomery County Public School’s controversial sexuality curriculum for eighth and tenth grade students is the result of pressure by homosexual advocacy groups.

  In response, the Thomas More Law Center, a national public interest law firm based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, announced today that it will assist the pro-family groups in their appeal of the Education Board’s decision to the Montgomery County Circuit Court. The Law Center will be assisted by Maryland attorney John R. Garza who has been involved in the curriculum fight for several years.

  The Thomas More Law Center and John Garza represent Citizens for a Responsible Curriculum, Parents and Friends of Ex-Gays and Gays, and the Family Leader Network.

  According to Richard Thompson, President and Chief Counsel of the Law Center, “I’m impressed with the principled and steadfast opposition by these pro-family groups to this outrageously hedonistic and life-threatening sexuality curriculum. The Law Center will do everything we can to assist them in their fight.”

  The pro-family groups oppose the sex program on several grounds: (1) it teaches students that homosexuality is “innate,” which is an unproven theory; (2) it teaches students that anal sex is just another sexual option without warning students of the increased HIV/AIDS risk of anal sex, even with a condom; (3) it labels as “homophobic” children who hold traditional religious or moral beliefs about homosexuality; and (4) it teaches students that transgenderism is just another “sexual orientation,” even though transgenderism has been classified as a mental disorder.

  The Montgomery County Circuit Court may overturn the decision of the State Board of Education. The court may also stay the application of the sexuality curriculum while the appeal is pending. If the court affirms the decision of the State Board of Education, the case will be appealed to the Maryland Court of Appeals.

  Edward L. White III, trial counsel with the Law Center, who is handling the case, commented: “This curriculum is full of factual inaccuracies and runs counter to sound educational policy. It should not be taught in the public school.”

  The Thomas More Law Center defends and promotes the religious freedom of Christians, time-honored family values, and the sanctity of human life through education, litigation, and related activities. It does not charge for its services. The Law Center is supported by contributions from individuals, corporations and foundations, and is recognized by the IRS as a section 501(c)(3) organization. You may reach the Thomas More Law Center at (734) 827-2001 or visit our website at www.thomasmore.org.

  ]]> Colonel Christopher Conlin, USMC has recommended that LtCol Chessani face a general court-martial. The Law Center has been representing Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Chessani, USMC since January 2007. http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=6 Thu, 12 Jul 2007 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=6 ANN ARBOR, MI – The Thomas More Law Center, a national public-interest legal advocacy firm today announced that Colonel Christopher Conlin, USMC has recommended that LtCol Chessani face a general court-martial. The Law Center has been representing Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Chessani, USMC since January of this year. Chessani is charged with “dereliction of duty” and “orders” violations. These charges stem from a battle in the insurgent held town of Haditha, Iraq on November 19, 2005. Marines were alleged to have purposely killed Iraqi civilians and that their officers were involved in a “cover-up” of the incident.

  Richard Thompson, the President and Chief Counsel of the Thomas More Law Center commented, “This recommendation deals more with political correctness than criminality. Colonel Chessani is chastised in the report because he had more confidence in his men than in insurgent propaganda. It glorifies paper pushing over fighting and has the unintended consequence of dampening the spirit of the most ferocious fighters on Earth.”

  Continued Thompson, “This fight is about the future of the American fighting man. If good officers and men like LtCol Chessani can’t react to combat situations the way they were trained, if our young soldiers are forced to hesitate in battle because they may be criminally charged by their own government, they will be killed. Further, if the higher command doesn’t correct the injustice of this flawed recommendation, ultimately there will be no aggressive military left to defend the life of our nation.”

  This case is the consequence of Congressman Murtha’s politically motivated statements against LtCol Chessani and his Marines, as well as, the terrorist inspired story in Time Magazine. Like the great tradition of the Marines, the Law Center will continue to press this fight forward until we have won victory for LtCol Chessani.

  The maximum punishment at a General Court-Martial that Chessani could face is dismissal (an officer’s equivalent of a dishonorable discharge), loss of retirement, and imprisonment of up to 3 years.

  In another case dealing with the same incident, a different Investigating Officer, LtCol Ware, USMC recommended in the strongest possible terms that murder charges be dropped against LCpl Sharrat. In his report, LtCol Ware surmised, “The government’s version may encourage others to bear false witness against Marines as a tactic to erode public support of the Marine Corps and its mission in Iraq. Even more dangerous is the potential that a Marine may hesitate at the critical moment when facing the enemy.” This echoes a sentiment that the Law Center has been making since the beginning of its defense of LtCol Chessani.

  LtGen Mattis will be the final arbiter of whether this case against LtCol Chessani goes to general courts-martial, or goes away. LtGen Mattis is not bound by this recommendation from Col Conlin. The Law Center has five days to write a rebuttal to the report. The Law Center will refute and rebut what it believes are clear factual errors and legal conclusions that render the recommendation invalid in its opinion.

  Brian Rooney, one of the attorneys assisting in the case commented, “We are disappointed by this recommendation, but not deterred. I always told Marines in Iraq that in the final analysis it is better to be judged by 12 then carried by 6. If we are forced to go to a general court-martial, LtCol Chessani will be judged by a true jury of his peers—many will be combat veterans themselves. We are very comfortable with that scenario.”

  The Thomas More Law Center defends and promotes the religious]]> http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=26 Fri, 06 Jul 2007 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=26 ANN ARBOR, MI – On the same evening, the San Diego Padres are enticing families to bring their children to the Padre’s game against the Atlanta Braves with a family day giveaway of “floppy hats;” the Padres are also advertising a homosexual event, “Pride Night at PETCO Park.”

  As a result, the Thomas More Law Center, a national public interest law firm based in Ann Arbor, Michigan today urged families with children and fans of the San Diego Padres and Atlanta Braves to stay away from the game and avoid watching, or even listening to this Sunday’s game involving the two clubs.

  On the San Diego Padres official website (http://sandiego.padres.mlb.com/sd/ticketing/groups/pride_night.jsp), the Padres are advertising for an official “San Diego Pride event (sponsored by the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered community).” The Padres’ website states, “Pride Night at PETCO Park. ‘Enjoy an evening of Padres baseball at a discounted price… . San Diego Pride supporters and volunteers will be recognized for organizing the group event with a scoreboard welcome and the Gay Men’s Chorus of San Diego will sing the National Anthem.’”

  On that same evening, the San Diego Padres are advertising a family day giveaway. Floppy hats with the “Swingin’ Friar” embossed will be given away to all children 14 and younger. This event is sponsored by the Union Bank of California and radio station Magic 92.5 FM. Sunday games are also an attraction for families with children because the Padres typically allow children to run the bases after Sunday games.

  Richard Thompson, President and Chief Counsel of the Thomas More Law Center commented, “In my opinion, this confluence of events is not a mistake. The Padres are playing the part of the Pied Piper leading unsuspecting children into accepting the homosexual lifestyle as normal. Children should not be subjected to the ‘in-your-face’ antics of these radical groups. The Thomas More Law Center wants unsuspecting parents that hope to get their children a free hat and maybe allow their children to run the bases at PETCO to know that they are also walking into a modern day scene of Sodom and Gomorrah.”

  Brian Rooney, spokesman for the Law Center stated, “These so-called ‘gay pride’ events are often debauched affairs of gross and inappropriate displays of public affection. San Diego’s gay pride event, from all documented accounts, is no different. Families would most assuredly not want to subject their children to this ‘alternate lifestyle’—especially at a baseball game.”

  The Thomas More Law Center defends and promotes the religious freedom of Christians, time-honored family values, and the sanctity of human life through education, litigation, and related activities. It does not charge for its services. The Law Center is supported by contributions from individuals, corporations and foundations, and is recognized by the IRS as a section 501(c)(3) organization. You may reach the Thomas More Law Center at (734) 827-2001 or visit our website at www.thomasmore.org.

  ]]> http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=27 Thu, 14 Jun 2007 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=27 ANN ARBOR, MI  -  Perhaps the most dramatic point in the Article 32 Hearing of Lieutenant Colonel Chessani overlooked by the media was the testimony of LtCol David Furness who declared that if the Marine Corps is going to second-guess its combat leaders by sending them to criminal trials, then this is not an organization he wants to be a part of.

  Furness, who had four combat tours in Iraq, two as a battalion commander and two as a senior staff officer, testified that under the circumstances as they existed in Iraq in 2005, the decisions that LtCol Chessani made were appropriate. LtCol Furness provided a refreshing dose of reality to the proceedings, putting LtCol Chessani's actions and decisions in the appropriate context of combat. He warned the Investigating Officer that this case could have a long-lasting detrimental effect on future battalion commanders.

  In addition to LtCol Furness, LtCol Jeff Kenney, one of the most respected combat veterans in the Marine Corps gave powerful testimony in favor of Chessani as did Major General Johnson in command of the Multi-National Forces West.

  Kenney, a combat veteran with 32 years of service in the Marine Corps¡ªtwelve as an enlisted Marine and twenty as an officer¡ªtestified about his experience in Iraq. In 2005-2006, he was assigned as an advisor to the Iraqi forces that were supporting U.S. troops in the region, including those that supported LtCol Chessani¡'s battalion. As part of his duties, LtCol Kenney often toured Haditha, providing him an opportunity to observe LtCol Chessani first hand.

  Based on his observations, he testified that LtCol Chessani was a focused commander who led his Marines from the front, often placing himself in personal peril by doing so. He testified that LtCol Chessani and his Marines were respected by the local civilians and that they were having tremendous operational success in a very difficult area of operations. LtCol Kenney also provided unique insight with regard to insurgent tactics, specifically including the insurgents' use of IED's (roadside bombs) to initiate complex attacks from residential areas.

  LtCol Kenney spoke from personal experience: his tour in Iraq ended abruptly when his vehicle was hit by an IED containing three 155mm artillery shells and other explosives. LtCol Kenney received near fatal wounds and was awarded the Purple Heart. It was a miracle that he survived the tremendous blast; his companions were not so fortunate.

  The sworn testimony of Major General Johnson was introduced to show that he was most concerned about the coordinated attack the enemy was able to perpetrate. Said Johnson, "I guess maybe if I was sitting here at Quantico and heard that 15 civilians were killed, I would have been surprised and shocked and gone, done more to look into it. But at that point in time, I felt that that was, had been, for whatever reason, part of that engagement and felt that it was just a cost of doing business on that particular engagement."

  Major General Johnson went on to say, "I think that the way this is laid out is that the impression that we were dealing with is that these folks were hit as a result of this coordinated attack that occurred there in Haditha, in that particular incident. That it was reported and that while it is regrettable, I think it was probably considered that at that time an element of the circumstances; and that our thought process would have been that, hey, if the enemy hadn't done it, those people wouldn't have got killed."

  Several other witnesses testified that LtCol Chessani was not derelict in his duties and appropriately reported the events of November 19, 2005 regarding the Battle of Haditha to his chain of command. There were also a great many witnesses that testified as to LtCol Chessani's good military character and honesty.

  The most universal tribute to LtCol Chessani from thes]]> http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=28 Wed, 06 Jun 2007 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=28 ANN ARBOR, MI -- Yesterday was another good day for the Thomas More Law Center in their defense of LtCol Chessani. Captain Oliver B. Dreger, the assistant intelligence officer at the time of the battle of Haditha testified as to his knowledge of what occurred that day. His testimony was enlightening in two respects: One; that NCIS, the Navy investigative service, essentially mistreated him and accused him of wrongdoing. This is an officer with an impeccable record. The other, more important point that Captain Dreger made was that his understanding of the intelligence picture of Haditha matched with what actually occurred that day.

  Major Caroll J. Connelley testified next. Major Connelley is the attorney for the 2nd Marine Regiment (LtCol Chessani's higher command) at the time of the battle. He testified that he knew that 15 civilians were killed in the battle but that his higher headquarters - the 2nd Marine Division, told him he did not have to investigate. In fact, Major Connelley stated that he tracked all investigations in the Regiment in Iraq, and none of them involved civilians’ deaths when there were Marines fighting the enemy. The obvious reason for this was because Marines did not target the civilians -- they target the terrorists firing from where the civilians were located.

  Lieutenant Mark E. Towers testified next. Lt Towers was LtCol Chessani's adjutant. He testified that LtCol Chessani was a godly man – who read his Bible every morning for a half hour to start the day. He testified that LtCol Chessani was out on the battlefield often - not afraid to lead from the front. Lt Towers also testified as to his training and that they expected Haditha to be like Fallujah. The unit they replaced had 25 Marines killed.

  Overall, it was a great day for the Thomas More Law Center. Today we will hear from Captain Jeffery S. Dinsmore, the main intelligence officer. His testimony has recently been declassified so the American public will have a better understanding of the day’s events.

  ]]> http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=29 Tue, 05 Jun 2007 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=29 ANN ARBOR, MI – A key expert witness for the government last week ended up being a great witness for Marine Lieutenant Colonel Chessani and the Thomas More Law Center.

  William Hays Parks, a lawyer with the Department of Defense who wrote the Directive on the “Law of War” was called by the prosecution to bolster their case against LtCol Chessani, the battalion commander of the Marines charged in the Haditha case. Instead, Mr. Parks testified that when he wrote the Directive, he did not envision that battalion commanders would investigate Law of War violations. They would merely report any suspected violations up the chain of command.

  Mr. Parks stated that he wanted combat commanders in the field to focus on the fight, while those higher in the chain of command decided whether to investigate. Mr. Parks believed that it would be improper for the battalion commanding officer to investigate his own men in this situation.

  Attorneys with the Thomas More Law Center, a national public interest law firm defending LtCol Chessani decided not to question Mr. Parks since his testimony essentially negated one of the charges LtCol Chessani faces—failure to investigate properly. The remaining charges have to do with reporting a possible or suspected “Law of War” charge. The Thomas More Law Center is confident they have the evidence that proves LtCol Chessani reported properly up the chain of command everything his battalion knew about the battle in Haditha on November 19, 2005.

  Law Center attorney Brian Rooney stated, “We have documentary evidence that proves LtCol Chessani reported to the Regiment and Division all the facts about the battle in Haditha that day. Every officer in the entire 2nd Marine Division who had the need to know was aware that there were civilian casualties. All understood that terrorists chose the place of battle—to fight behind women and children. The enemy we face brutally calculates civilian deaths in their attacks in the hopes that Marines will unintentionally kill civilians so that they can use that as propaganda against the forces they face.”

  The high-profile Haditha case arises out of a terrorist attack in Haditha, Iraq on November 19, 2005 in which one Marine was killed and several others wounded as terrorists engaged Marines from civilian-occupied homes. Several months later, the incident received negative political and media attention based on false propaganda claims by suspected insurgents, who alleged that Marines wrongfully killed civilians. As a result, the government charged Lt Col Chessani with dereliction of duty and “orders” violations for allegedly failing to investigate and report a law of war violation.

  Other key witnesses that testified this past week included Major General Huck, the commanding general of the 2nd Marine Division and some staff officers in the battalion and regiment at the time of the attack. MGen Huck acknowledged that he knew that civilians were killed on the same day of the battle, but he understood this to be an “unfortunate” outcome due to the tactics of the enemy we face in Iraq.

  It is clear from MGen Huck and the others that have testified that all officers in Chessani’s chain of command in the 2nd Marine Division had knowledge that civilians were tragically killed in Haditha, but as seasoned combat veterans they knew that this can regrettably occur in war when you face an enemy that specifically fights behind women and children.

  Chessani’s attorneys believe that they will call at least ten more witnesses this week. One of those witnesses will be a PhD in linguistics and anthropology—concentrating on Arabic and Islamic culture and speech. This witness also happens to be a Benedictine monk.

  Attorneys from the Thomas More Law Center are defending Lt Col Chessani at no cost. The defense team also includes Lieutenant Colon]]> http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=30 Wed, 23 May 2007 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=30 ANN ARBOR, MI – His official 2006 Combat Fitness Report from Colonel Davis declared Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Chessani “A superb leader, who knows his men, knows the enemy, knows his business,” and recommended him for promotion. The reviewing Major General Huck added, Lieutenant Colonel Chessani has “unlimited potential and value to the Marine Corps,” and also recommended him for promotion.

  Although his superiors considered him one of the most effective combat commanders in Iraq, Lieutenant Colonel Chessani is now facing criminal charges arising out of the so-called “Haditha massacre” of November 19, 2005—even though he was not at the scene. He is the highest ranking officer charged. If convicted, this 19 year Marine veteran and the father of 5 young children, who served in the Panama Invasion, the Persian Gulf War, and three tours in Iraq, could be dismissed (dishonorable discharge) from the Marine Corps, lose all his retirement benefits, and possibly serve 3 years in prison. His preliminary hearing (equivalent of a grand jury hearing) on the charges will begin May 30th in Camp Pendleton, California.

  The following are excerpts from Lieutenant Colonel Chessani’s Combat Fitness Report (a required annual evaluation of a Marine officer’s performance) prepared by his superiors for the reporting period of September 2005 to February 2006 (This time period includes the date of the incident for which Lieutenant Colonel Chessani is facing criminal charges):

  • “Leads Marines from front in every operation. Demonstrates moral courage everyday. Doesn’t hesitate to report bad news fast or contest unrealistic plans/poor concepts. Despite the complexity and size of his AO (area of operations), he always maintains a calm, cool demeanor.”

  • “Always seeks advantage over complex, diverse insurgent enemy. Truly one of the finer thinkers in this COIN {counterinsurgency) environment.”

  • “One of the top 3 infantry/Cav Bn cmdrs of 13 who have served with RCT –2 (the regiment) during OIF. A superb leader, who knows his men, knows the enemy, knows his business. Doesn’t attract a lot of fanfare; just gets the job done to an exceedingly high standard.”

  • “Long ball hitter; recommend selection for promotion to Colonel and TLS [Top Level School].”

  The Reviewing Officer, Major General Huck added his comments: “Top notch officer with outstanding potential. Promote and select for TLS (top level school). Post TLS slate for Regimental command and subsequent joint tour. Unlimited potential and value to the Marine Corps. Capable of the most challenging assignments.”

  The charges against Lieutenant Colonel Chessani were incited by an inflammatory Time magazine headline accusing Marine enlisted men of “massacring innocent civilians.” The story was planted by a known terrorist propaganda operative—since discredited.   Anti-war Congressman John Murtha, with influence over military appropriations, in an unprecedented action, publicly accused Marine officers of a “cover-up” even before the investigation of the incident was completed. The subsequent investigation specifically found no “cover-up” at any level of command.

  Nevertheless, Lieutenant Colonel Chessani was charged with failing to investigate and properly report the incident to his superiors. The Thomas More Law Center, a national public interest law firm based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, is defending Lieutenant Colonel Chessani against the charges, and believes he is being sacrificed for the sake of placating anti-war critics.

  Richard Thompson, President and Chief Counsel of the Thomas More Law Center, commented, “We are eating our ow]]> http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=31 Tue, 22 May 2007 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=31 ANN ARBOR, MI – Supporters of Michigan House Bill 4259, which would legalize adoptions by homosexual partners, point to the lack of public opposition by the “Michigan Catholic Conference” as reason for hope that the “Bill” will pass the legislature and be enacted into law. Free Press Columnist Brian Dickerson recently wrote, “The church’s neutrality underlines the fact that adoption and gay marriage are separate issues, practically as well as legally.”

  To counter this false impression, the Thomas More Law Center revealed today that it has sent a letter to over one hundred members of the Michigan state House of Representatives informing them of the Catholic Church’s unequivocal opposition to adoptions by homosexual partners. The Thomas More Law Center is a national Christian legal advocacy group based in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

  The Law Center’s letter extensively quotes from a 2003 document issued by the Congregation for the Doctrine of Faith headed by then Cardinal Ratzinger, now Pope Benedict XVI. The document entitled Considerations regarding Proposals to Give Legal Recognition to unions Between Homosexual Persons, intended to give direction to not only Catholic politicians, but also to all persons committed to defending the common good of society, states:

  “Allowing children to be adopted by persons in such [homosexual] unions would actually mean doing violence to these children, in the sense that their condition of dependency would be used to place them in an environment that is not conducive to their full human development.”

  Richard Thompson, President and Chief Counsel of the Law Center commented, “Not only does this House Bill violate Catholic doctrine, but it is a disguised effort to do an end-run around the state constitutional ban on same –sex marriages overwhelmingly passed by Michigan voters in 2004. Every citizen concerned with the common good of the community and our vulnerable children should oppose this Bill.”

  The Law Center’s letter also expressed concern that if HB 4259 passed, it would cause Christian adoption agencies to withdraw from adoptions altogether rather than violate their religious principles. Typically, these Christian adoption agencies handle the hardest to place children.

  Thompson added, “Although the Catholic Church teaches respect for homosexual persons, the Church is emphatic that that respect ‘cannot lead in any way to approval of homosexual behavior or to legal recognition of homosexual unions.’ Allowing homosexual partners to adopt children would be giving them such recognition.”

  The Thomas More Law Center defends and promotes the religious freedom of Christians, time-honored family values, and the sanctity of human life through education, litigation, and related activities. It does not charge for its services. The Law Center is supported by contributions from individuals, corporations and foundations, and is recognized by the IRS as a section 501(c)(3) organization. You may reach the Thomas More Law Center at (734) 827-2001 or visit our website at www.thomasmore.org.

  ]]> http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=32 Tue, 08 May 2007 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=32 ANN ARBOR, MI – The Thomas More Law Center, a national Christian legal advocacy group based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, today announced that Vietnam War hero and former U. S. Senator from Alabama—Admiral Jeremiah A. Denton, USN (Ret)—has been appointed Chairman of the Law Center’s Citizens Advisory Board. Admiral Denton commented upon acceptance of his appointment, "I can think of no greater honor and opportunity than to be chosen to succeed my dear friend Bowie Kuhn in this position. Like he did, I consider TMLC to be at the forefront of the desperately overdue movement to restore our nation's indispensable founding values and legal standards."

  Richard Thompson, President and Chief Counsel of the Thomas More Law Center stated, “Admiral Denton represents everything good about America—a heroic patriot, a devoted husband, father, and a faithful Christian. He symbolizes everything the Law Center strives to be. We are honored that he would accept the position of ‘Chairman’ to replace another great Christian American patriot, Bowie Kuhn, who passed away in March of this year.”

  Admiral Denton was a Vietnam POW for nearly eight years. Suffering severe mistreatment, he became the first U.S. military captive to be subjected to four years of solitary confinement. He first came to the public’s attention in 1966. After being tortured and threatened with more torture and even death if he did not “correctly” answer the questions posed, he was televised in front of Communist dignitaries with the purpose of having him admit to American atrocities. Instead, Denton replied, “Whatever the position of my government is, I believe it, I support it, and I will support it as long as I live.”

  Admiral Denton has been a member of the Thomas More Law Center Citizens Advisory Board since 2005. He is responsible for developing the Law Center’s national strategy. He has served on the advisory board of many institutions including Christendom College, Franciscan University Steubenville and Thomas Aquinas College. He is the President and Founder of the Admiral Jeremiah Denton Foundation (AJDF) www.dentonfoundation.org. He and his wife, the former Jane Maury were born in Mobile, Alabama and they have seven children.

  Brian Rooney, Director of Communications and Development had this to say, “As a Marine combat Veteran, I have always admired Admiral Denton. To me his character and courage was epitomized in a North Vietnamese televised interview, Admiral Denton feigning sensitivity to harsh camera lighting, looked into the camera lens and blinked his eyes in Morse Code spelling out the message ‘T-O-R-T-U-R-E.’ Thusly, he provided Naval Intelligence the first confirmation that American POWs in Vietnam were being tortured. Further, as spokesperson for the first group of returning POWs in1973, as he stepped from the plane he was asked to make a statement on behalf of the group. He turned to the microphones and said, ‘We are honored to have the opportunity to serve our country under difficult circumstances. We are profoundly grateful to our Commander-in-Chief and our nation for this day. God bless America.’”

  Jeremiah A. Denton is a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, the Armed Forces Staff College and the Naval War College. Admiral Denton retired from the Navy in 1977, and was elected to the U.S. Senate in 1980. In so doing, he became the first Republican ever elected by popular vote to represent Alabama. Denton is the recipient of many awards and honors including the Navy Cross, three Silver Stars, the Distinguished Flying Cross and two Purple Hearts.

  Richard Thompson further commented, “One of my favorite memories of Admiral Denton is when he was honored by President Ronald Reagan.” Ronald Reagan in his 1982 State of the Union Address]]> http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=33 Tue, 24 Apr 2007 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=33 ANN ARBOR, MI – The Thomas More Law Center today announced that it will request the Secretary of Navy to investigate allegations of improper and unconstitutional interrogation methods employed by Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) agents against Marine witnesses. Law Center attorneys obtained the information during interviews of several key Haditha witnesses.

  The Thomas More Law Center, a Christian legal advocacy group based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, is representing Marine Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Chessani, who is charged with failing to investigate and report 15 Iraqi civilian deaths in connection with a Marine response to a terrorist ambush that occurred in Haditha, Iraq on November 19, 2005.

  Richard Thompson, President and Chief Counsel of the Law Center, commented, “There are disturbing reports that American servicemen were treated like POWs by their own government. In fact, more concern has been shown toward the treatment of Iraqi prisoners than towards our Marines. An investigation of these allegations is in order. ”

  According to Marine witnesses, in some cases interrogations lasted up to 18 hours. During prolonged questioning sessions, Marines were not allowed to eat, drink, or use the bathroom. In some cases, Marines were kept in segregated rooms of an old Iraqi dam that were damp, dark, and “dungeon like.” These interrogation sessions occurred while the Marines were still involved in combat operations in Haditha, a hostile insurgent city.

  Many witnesses reported that the questioning was accusatorial, confrontational, and at times insulting. One officer stated that agents yelled and threw things at him during his questioning. Witnesses believed that the agents had already concluded that there was wrongdoing and were not interested in information that would tend to exonerate the Marines. One witness stated that it was his perception that the NCIS agents had an agenda—they were going after the officers in the battalion.

  Witness interviews revealed that Marines in Iraq raised concerns about the NCIS interrogation techniques immediately upon receiving reports from the Marines who were questioned. One senior officer from the battalion stated that when he brought these allegations to the attention of the senior NCIS agent in Iraq at the time, the agent “blew him off completely.”

  Recent news stories corroborate the allegations of mistreatment on the part of NCIS agents. According to a North County Times article, in some cases NCIS agents refused to provide attorneys for suspects who asked for them. The article reported that “[s]ome of the interrogations that took place in Iraq before the regiment returned to Camp Pendleton in April took place over as long as 12 hours . . . and the suspects were not allowed to take bathroom breaks. Instead, they were given bottles to use to relieve themselves.” The article noted that “[t]he treatment of the suspects was so bad that at least two officers who were not a direct part of the investigation complained to their superiors.”

  These latest revelations add to the increasing difficulties facing prosecutors. From the beginning, the case has been fraught with legal problems and inappropriate pre-trial publicity, which has prejudiced the ability of the charged Marines to obtain a fair trial. In fact, Air Force Lt. General Thomas McInerney, a 35-year veteran of the Air Force and former Joint Force Commander, has already publicly stated that all charges against the Marines should be dismissed because the Marines could not get a fair trial as a result of undue command influence. McInerney was referring to the outrageous statements of Pennsylvania Congressman John Murtha—statements that were made before the investigation even concluded. Murtha declared that the Marines had committed “cold-blooded” murder of civilians in Haditha on November 19, 2005]]> http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=34 Tue, 10 Apr 2007 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=34 ANN ARBOR, MI – The Thomas More Law Center, a national Christian legal advocacy group, today announced it has established a Lieutenant Colonel Chessani Defense Fund in response to the flood of calls and emails from people wishing to support this Marine Corps officer in his politicized legal battle.

  Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Chessani is accused of criminal wrong doing in the high profile case arising out of a terrorist ambush in Haditha, Iraq on November 19, 2005 in which one Marine was killed and several others wounded. As Marines moved in on the attacking terrorists who were firing from nearby homes, several civilians were killed.

  Months later, after inflammatory media articles and comments by an antiwar politician, LtCol Chessani, the battalion commander of the Marines involved in the fighting, was accused of failing to properly report and investigate the incident.

  He faces a maximum punishment of three years in prison, dismissal (an officer’s equivalent of a dishonorable discharge), and the loss of his retirement benefits.

  The Thomas More Law Center, based in Ann Arbor, MI, agreed to represent LtCol Chessani at no charge.

  Richard Thompson, President and Chief Counsel of the Law Center commented, “LtCol Chessani is a devout family man and Christian, who dutifully defended our country for nineteen years, including three tours in Iraq. His wife and five young children should not have to worry about finances to ensure that he receives the best defense possible.”

  Law Center spokesperson Brian Rooney stated, “Had LtCol Chessani hired a private for-profit law firm to represent him, his legal bills would already be astronomical – out of reach for a father of five young children surviving on military pay.”

  “It is unfortunate that LtCol Chessani is being made a political scapegoat,” added Rooney.

  Rooney is asking concerned Americans to help defend LtCol Chessani, “You can help in his defense by mailing a donation to the Thomas More Law Center at 24 Frank Lloyd Wright Drive, P.O. Box 393, Ann Arbor MI 48106, or by simply visiting our website (www.thomasmore.org) and clicking on the ‘LtCol Chessani Defense Fund’ icon in the top right corner. Please indicate your donation is for the ‘Defense Fund.’”

  The Law Center, collaborating with assigned military defense counsel, has already commenced its aggressive defense of LtCol Chessani by interviewing numerous witnesses, conducting discovery of crucial evidence, reviewing thousands of pages of investigative reports and documents associated with the case, and deposing many key witnessing who are redeploying back to Iraq.

  The two Law Center attorneys assigned to handle the case, Robert Muise and Brian Rooney, are both former Marine officers. Muise is a former infantry officer and judge advocate, who served in the Persian Gulf War, and Rooney is a former judge advocate and Iraq War Veteran.

  The Thomas More Law Center defends and promotes the religious freedom of Christians, time-honored family values, and the sanctity of human life through litigation, education, and related activities. It does not charge for its services. The Law Center is supported by contributions from individuals, corporations and foundations, and is recognized by the IRS as a section 501(c)(3) organization. You may reach the Thomas More Law Center at (734) 827-2001 or visit our website at www.thomasmore.org.

  ]]> http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=35 Tue, 03 Apr 2007 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=35 ANN ARBOR, MI – Six officers and one senior enlisted Marine gave sworn videotaped testimony last week that nothing they saw or heard concerning the so called “Haditha Massacre” of November 19, 2005 caused them to suspect that any Marine had purposely killed any Iraqi civilian or that any officer was involved in a cover-up of the incident.

  The Thomas More Law Center is representing Marine Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Chessani, who is charged with failure to investigate and brief higher command of the incident. The defense team also includes Marine Reserve Lieutenant Colonel Jon Shelburne—a law professor at Roger Williams University School of Law, and Marine Captain Jeff King. The sworn videotape testimony for use at the proposed May 2007 Article 32 hearing was taken because the witnesses were being deployed out of the country and would not be personally present at the hearing.

  The Thomas More Law Center, a national public interest law firm based in Ann Arbor, Michigan is defending Chessani at no cost. Law Center attorneys assigned to handle the case, Robert Muise and Brian Rooney, are both former Marine officers. Rooney served seven months in Iraq and Muise served in the first Persian Gulf War.

  Brian Rooney, the Law Center spokesperson, commented, “The more evidence that is brought to light from key witnesses the better. There is so much misreporting and outright propaganda from the enemy presented as fact by news organizations like Time magazine that we have started in on the process of debunking false reports through the truth with these depositions.”

  One key witness was the intelligence officer for 3rd Battalion, 1st Marines while the unit was deployed to Iraq. During his closed testimony, the officer testified for nearly eight hours, providing classified evidence of the enemy situation and their tactics, including their tactic of using civilians as cover for their attacks. Through this witness, the defense team presented over one hundred classified exhibits, including video.

  Muise, the Law Center attorney who questioned the officer, commented, “The intelligence officer is a crucial witness in this case. During his testimony, he effectively described the enemy situation prior to, during, and after the November 19 terrorist attack, providing the necessary context for the decisions that were made as a result. His testimony shows the complexity of the attack this day, the callousness of the terrorists toward the local civilians, whom they use to their advantage, and the error of viewing this incident in a vacuum.”

  The officer also showed how the insurgents used allegations of wrongdoing by Marines as propaganda to support their cause. In fact, another witness, who was the assistant intelligence officer during the attack and is now the current intelligence officer for the battalion, testified that since the Haditha incident received so much negative attention, terrorist propaganda alleging law of war violations against American servicemen in Iraq has “ballooned.”

  Richard Thompson, the President and Chief Counsel of the Thomas More Law Center, expressed concern about this trend, “The government’s politicized quest to find wrongdoing in this case will ultimately harm the war effort, and it has already resulted in an incredible expenditure of time, money, and scarce resources, which could be better used fighting the terrorists.”

  Another officer who personally witnessed the scene of the attack shortly after the fighting and assisted with removing the civilian bodies from the insurgent-occupied homes, confirmed that there was no evidence of “executions” and that he saw no evidence of misconduct. This officer was testifying under a grant of immunity by the government, adding further credibility to his testimony.

  Lieutenant Colonel Shelburne, the military defense counsel who questione]]> http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=38 Mon, 02 Apr 2007 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=38 ANN ARBOR, MI – It is clear that the Battalion Commander of the Marines charged in the so called “Haditha Massacre” is a political scapegoat of the anti-war efforts led by Congressman John Murtha and Time magazine. This was the conclusion of Richard Thompson, President and Chief Counsel of the Thomas More Law Center, a national public interest law firm based in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

  The Law Center is assisting military counsel in the defense of Marine Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Chessani without charge. Chessani is accused of failing to properly report and investigate the battle that occurred on November 19, 2005 in which 15 Iraqi civilians were killed.

  Said Thompson, “This is a media-instigated prosecution, influenced by Iraqi propagandists and inflamed by Congressman Murtha’s outrageous public comments prejudging the guilt of Marines to bolster his anti-war agenda.”

  Thompson’s public comments are based on his office’s review of thousands of pages of investigative reports, interviews and sworn depositions of key combat officers intimately familiar with the events surrounding the November 19, 2005 ambush of a Marine convoy in the city of Haditha, Al Anbar Province, one of the deadliest cities in Iraq.

  The decision to launch a criminal investigation of the November 19 incident was made three months after its occurrence as a result of a Time Magazine news lead, which military commanders in the field suspected was instigated by terrorist propaganda.

  Congressman John Murtha, an outspoken anti-war critic and chairman of the House military appropriations subcommittee, months before the investigation was completed, publicly accused the four Marines of being “cold-blooded murderers” and high-ranking officers of “covering it up.”

  Brian J. Rooney, the Law Center spokesman and a former Marine Captain, who spent 7 months in Iraq, commented, “Our office has just taken the first round of depositions of key witnesses who will be redeployed outside of the country. I can promise you some stunning revelations showing Lieutenant Colonel Chessani will be exonerated of all the charges against him.”

  Said Rooney, “We are looking forward to getting on with the Article 32 Hearing. Unfortunately, it has taken the government a large amount of time to release all of the evidence in their possession. In fact, on March 20, 2007 our office received 4,000 more pages of discovery (the Bargwell Report) from the government. We originally requested March 21, 2007 as the date we wanted to start the Article 32 Hearing. The delay in getting us crucial evidence forced a further delay.”

  The Article 32 Hearing date was moved from March 21, 2007 to May 14, 2007. This date may further move to May 30, 2007 to accommodate all parties involved. The original officer appointed as the Investigating Officer for the Article 32, Colonel George Smith, USMC has been replaced—due to his unavailability—by Colonel Christopher Conlin, USMC.

  The maximum punishment at a General Court-Martial that Chessani could face is dismissal (an officer’s equivalent of a dishonorable discharge), loss of retirement, and imprisonment of up to 3 years.

  The Thomas More Law Center defends and promotes the religious freedom of Christians, time-honored family values, and the sanctity of human life through litigation, education, and related activities. It does not charge for its services. The Law Center is supported by contributions from individuals, corporations and foundations, and is recognized by the IRS as a section 501(c)(3) organization. You may reach the Thomas More Law Center at (734) 827-2001 or visit our website at www.thomasmore.org.

  ]]> http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=39 Tue, 20 Mar 2007 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=39 ANN ARBOR, MI – The Thomas More Law Center, a national Christian legal advocacy group based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, mourns the loss of the Chairman of its Citizens Advisory Board – Bowie Kuhn.

  Mr. Kuhn died on March 15, 2007, at St. Luke’s Hospital in Jacksonville, Florida. Kuhn, who lived in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, was 80. Many know that Bowie Kuhn was Commissioner of Major League Baseball from 1969-1984. "He led our game through a great deal of change and controversy," current commissioner Bud Selig said. "Yet, Bowie laid the groundwork for the success we enjoy today." "He wore the mantle really well. He liked being commissioner," Yankees manager Joe Torre said. "He never seemed to compromise on what he felt he needed to do."

  Since leaving baseball, Bowie Kuhn has been a leader in the Catholic community. Richard Thompson, President and Chief Counsel to the Thomas More Law Center, attended Bowie Kuhn’s funeral. Thompson commented, “Bowie was one of the most virtuous and intelligent men I ever met. He was an articulate steadfast spokesman for the Christian community.”

  The Thomas More Law Center was on Bowie Kuhn’s mind the day he passed. Bowie Kuhn told a member of the clergy in the hospital that the Thomas More Law Center was a great organization.

  Brian Rooney, Director of Communications for the Law Center, said, “I had the privilege of meeting Bowie Kuhn recently in Naples, Florida, with my father. My grandfather, Art Rooney, founder of the Pittsburgh Steelers, was a huge baseball fan, and not surprisingly was good friends with Bowie Kuhn. I will always cherish the stories Bowie Kuhn told me and my father that day about his friendship with my grandfather.”

  Bowie Kuhn was a graduate of Princeton University and had earned a law degree from the University of Virginia. "I want it to be remembered that I was commissioner during a time of tremendous growth in the popularity of the game," Kuhn said, "and that it was a time in which no one could question the integrity of the game."

  "Bowie was a good guy, and I admired him. Even though we had our disagreements, I never lost my respect for his integrity," George Steinbrenner said through spokesman Howard Rubenstein.

  Bowie Kent Kuhn grew up in Washington, D.C, the youngest of three children. His father, Louis, an immigrant from Bavaria, was an executive with a fuel company. His mother, Alice, her roots in 17th-century Maryland, descended from five governors, two United States senators, and the frontiersman Jim Bowie.

  Bowie Kuhn is survived by his wife, Luisa; his son, Stephen, of Chappaqua, New York; his daughter, Alix Bower of Ridgefield, Connecticut; two stepsons, Paul Degener, of Redding, Connecticut, and George Degener of Somers, New York; a sister, Alice McKinley of St. Augustine, Florida; and 10 grandchildren.

  The Thomas More Law Center defends and promotes the religious freedom of Christians, time-honored family values, and the sanctity of human life through education, litigation, and related activities. It does not charge for its services. The Law Center is supported by contributions from individuals, corporations and foundations, and is recognized by the IRS as a section 501(c)(3) organization. You may reach the Thomas More Law Center at (734) 827-2001 or visit our website at www.thomasmore.org.

  ]]> http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=40 Tue, 06 Mar 2007 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=40 ANN ARBOR, MI – The Thomas More Law Center, a national public interest law firm based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, today announced that it will defend Marine Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Chessani, against military criminal charges of “Dereliction of Duty” and “Orders” violations. The charges stem from the much politicized and often misreported (especially from Time magazine) tragic events surrounding a fierce battle between U.S. Marines and Iraqi and foreign terrorists on November 19, 2005 in the town of Haditha, Al Anbar, Iraq—a place described as “an insurgent citadel.”

  At the time of the battle, Chessani was commander of Third Battalion, First Marines and responsible for approximately 2000 American and Iraqi forces. At about 7:15 in the morning of November 19, 2005, a squad of Chessani’s Marines was leading a convoy when it was ambushed by a road-side bomb and small arms fire from nearby houses. The bomb detonated under a Humvee, killing one Marine and injuring two others. An ensuing house-to-house battle between insurgents and an out-numbered 4-man Marine “fire team” resulted in the deaths of 24 Iraqis, including 15 civilians.

  Richard Thompson, President and Chief Counsel for the Law Center, explained the decision to take the case. “The outcome of this case is vital to the security of our nation and to the military personnel we place in harms way. As tragic as these civilian deaths are, it’s essential that we not shackle our combat commanders’ ability to make decisions by placing them in fear of criminal prosecution every time there are civilian casualties as a result of combat action.”

  Thompson further stated, “Lieutenant Colonel Chessani never retained an attorney during the year-long investigation leading up to these criminal charges and voluntarily answered all questions posed by investigators. He knew he had done nothing wrong and trusted he would be cleared. Despite the charges against him, he still believes in that last line of the military Code of Conduct—‘I will trust in God and in the United States of America.’”

  Chessani is described by fellow officers as a focused, hands-on commander, a strict follower of the Law of War, and sympathetic to the plight of innocent Iraqi civilians. He is a committed Christian with a wife and five children. He has honorably served his nation for over nineteen years with tours of duty that included Panama, the first Persian Gulf War, and three combat tours in Iraq.

  The decision to launch a criminal investigation of the November 19 incident was made three months after its occurrence and as a result of a grossly erroneous and inflammatory Time Magazine news lead, which military commanders in the field suspected was instigated by terrorist propaganda.

  The suspicious nature of the process was reinforced when months before the investigation was completed, Congressman John Murtha, an outspoken anti-war critic and chairman of the House military appropriations subcommittee, publicly accused the four Marines of being “cold-blooded murderers” and high ranking officers of “covering it up.” Murtha is the same person caught on tape negotiating bribes with Arab Sheiks during the FBI’s 1980 Abscam investigation—he was an un-indicted coconspirator in that case.

  “The astounding and unprecedented public accusations of ‘murder’ and ‘cover-up’ by Congressman Murtha, which he claimed were based on his conversation with senior military officials, taints the entire process,” stated Thompson. Although pressed by reporters, Congressman Murtha has thus far refused to provide the basis for his public accusations or reveal the names of the senior military officials from whom he claimed he received his information.

  The gist of the charges against Chessani is that he failed]]> http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=41 Tue, 06 Feb 2007 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=41 ANN ARBOR, MI – Last week the Michigan Court of Appeals interpreted Michigan’s “Marriage Amendment,” as preventing state officials from recognizing same-sex “domestic partnerships.” The decision is the first time a state appellate court has interpreted Michigan’s Constitutional Amendment - enacted by a citizen’s petition drive. The Amendment provides “the union of one man and one women in marriage shall be the only agreement recognized as a marriage or similar union for any purpose.” The court decision will be binding throughout the state (unless overruled by Michigan’s Supreme Court).

  In 2004, the Thomas More Law Center played a significant role in drafting the marriage amendment language at the request of the “Coalition For The Protection Of Marriage.” The Law Center then collaborated with the “Coalition For The Protection Of Marriage,” the “American Family Association of Michigan” and other pro-family groups to secure voter approval of the amendment.

  Richard Thompson, President and Chief Counsel of the Law Center commented, “Michigan’s Marriage Amendment makes Michigan one of 27 states in the union that have constitutional amendments protecting traditional marriage from activist judges and radical homosexual groups. We welcome this decision, which should prevent public officials from redefining the institution of marriage in the State of Michigan. It is high time that state officials abide by the plain language of this constitutional amendment.”

  Patrick T. Gillen, the Law Center attorney who participated in drafting the language of the Marriage Amendment noted, “The Court of Appeals did an admirable job applying the plain language of the amendment to the issue presented by the plaintiffs demand for recognition of same-sex domestic partnerships. The traditional family unit is a unique institution that promotes the good of spouses, children who enter the family, and, ultimately, the common good. We will continue our efforts to ensure that state officials respect the will of the people and the institution of marriage.”

  Currently the Thomas More Law Center is representing clients, including the “American Family Association of Michigan,” in two other cases where governmental entities recognize same-sex domestic partners contrary to the Marriage Amendment, namely, the City Ann Arbor and Michigan State University.

  The Thomas More Law Center defends and promotes the religious freedom of Christians, time-honored family values, and the sanctity of human life through education, litigation, and related activities. It does not charge for its services. The Law Center is supported by contributions from individuals, corporations and foundations, and is recognized by the IRS as a section 501(c)(3) organization. You may reach the Thomas More Law Center at (734) 827-2001 or visit our website at www.thomasmore.org.

  ]]> http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=42 Thu, 11 Jan 2007 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=42 ANN ARBOR, MI – The Thomas More Law Center, a national public interest law firm based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, today announced the appointment of Brian J. Rooney as its Director of Communications and Development. Rooney received his commission from the Marine Corps in 1998 and his law degree from Florida State University College of Law in 1999. He was promoted to the rank of Captain in 2001. He is an Iraq War veteran having served seven months in Iraq. Captain Rooney resigned his commission from the Marine Corps in October 2006 receiving an honorable discharge.

  Rooney reports directly to the President and Chief Counsel of the Law Center, Richard Thompson, and will play a leading role in guiding the future of the Law Center. He will be responsible for the Law Center’s media relations, communications strategy, website content and development programs.

  Brian Rooney moved his family from San Diego, CA to Ann Arbor, MI to work at the Thomas More Law Center’s National Headquarters. Said Rooney, “I served my country in the Marine Corps overseas to protect our values and flag. I did not serve so that those values and our flag could be wiped away by the courts. The Thomas More Law Center has a Christian purpose in fighting the Culture War. This is a mission that I believe in, and a mission that is just as important as the one I had in the Marine Corps.”

  Commented Thompson, “This is the proverbial match made in Heaven. Brian’s leadership skills, energy, and organizational and legal abilities honed by the Marines, combined with his personal commitment to our Christian values and mission, compliments the aggressiveness of our trial lawyers and our mission. Brian will take us to the next level in the Culture War.”

  Brian Rooney was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, into the noted and esteemed “Rooney Family” out of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. His grandfather, Art Rooney, founded the Pittsburgh Steelers. His family still owns the Steelers, as well as, a horse track in Yonkers, New York and a dog track in West Palm Beach, Florida.

  He received a B.A. in History from Williams College, Williamstown, Massachusetts in June of 1995. While at Williams College, Brian participated as a four-year student-athlete on the Williams NCAA Division III football team, which went undefeated his senior year.

  As a Marine, Rooney had several responsibilities, both in Iraq and stateside. He served as a prosecutor and defense counsel for Marines and Sailors in all types of criminal matters, advised commanders and troops in the field on the Rules of Engagement and Targeting.

  Rooney served as the Senior Defense Counsel for the majority of his initial tour at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, AZ. Captain Rooney defended Marines and Sailors in a variety of criminal cases. Captain Rooney received a prestigious medal from the Secretary of the Navy for his work in Yuma.

  Captain Rooney transferred to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California in August of 2003 and was assigned as the Senior Prosecutor for a year, prosecuting Marines and Sailors in all types of criminal cases.

  Captain Rooney deployed with the Third Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW) as the Deputy In-House Counsel in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom II.2. While in Iraq, Captain Rooney assisted the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit in Najaf. After the battle for Najaf, he helped rebuild the city and win support from its inhabitants. He was also sent to Regimental Combat Team-1 (1st Marine Regiment) as the Deputy In-House Counsel to help in repopulating, rebuilding, and winning over the populace in Fallujah, during and after the second battle of Fallujah. The Secretary of the Navy awarded Rooney a prestigious medal for his work in Iraq. Upon Captain Rooney’s return to the USA, he was maintained as the Deputy In-House Counsel for the Third MAW for six additional months. Captain Rooney]]> http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=74 Sun, 31 Dec 2006 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=74 Michigan Supreme Court Will Decide Whether Public Schools Can Fund Same Sex Domestic Partnership Benefits
  Thu, Nov 9, 2006

  ANN ARBOR, MI – The Michigan Supreme Court this week decided to hear oral arguments on the constitutionality of Ann Arbor Public Schools’ (AAPS) policy of funding benefits for same-sex domestic partners. The lawsuit was brought on behalf of several tax payers by the Thomas More Law Center, a national public interest law firm based in Ann Arbor.

  The Law Center claimed that Ann Arbor Public Schools violated Michigan’s Marriage Amendment and state law that prohibits the recognition of same-sex marriages when it used public funds to recognize and subsidize same-sex unions.

  When the suit was filed in 2003, the taxpayers argued that AAPS’ recognition of same-sex partnerships for the purpose of providing benefits violated Michigan law governing marriage and prohibiting the recognition of same-sex marriages. While the suit was pending, the Law Center collaborated with the Coalition For The Protection Of Marriage and other pro-family groups, such as the American Family Association of Michigan, to draft and secure passage of Michigan’s Marriage Amendment, which provides that “the union of one man and one woman in marriage shall be the only agreement recognized as a marriage or similar union for any purpose.”

  Richard Thompson, President and Chief Counsel of the Law Center commented, “This case will give the Michigan Supreme Court an opportunity to interpret Michigan’s Marriage Amendment as it relates to same-sex partnership benefits. We believe AAPS abused its authority; rather than using public funds to promote public education, it used those funds to promote a lifestyle opposed by most citizens.”

  Patrick T. Gillen, a Law Center trial counsel who argued the application for leave before the Michigan Supreme Court last month, noted, “I look forward to arguing the case before our Supreme Court. The traditional family is a unique institution that promotes the good of spouses, children who enter the family, and, ultimately, the common good. AAPS has no authority to redefine the family and I am confident that the Michigan Supreme Court will not allow AAPS to thwart state law by means of a hollow exercise in labeling.”

  On November 7th seven additional states voted to approve constitutional amendments banning same-sex marriages -- Colorado, Idaho, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Virginia and Wisconsin. With the addition of these seven states, there are now 27 states in the nation that have constitutional amendments protecting traditional marriage from activist judges and radical homosexual groups.

  The Thomas More Law Center defends and promotes the religious freedom of Christians, time-honored family values, and the sanctity of human life through education, litigation, and related activities. It does not charge for its services. The Law Center is supported by contributions from individuals, corporations and foundations, and is recognized by the IRS as a section 501(c)(3) organization. You may reach the Thomas More Law Center at (734) 827-2001 or visit our website at www.thomasmore.org.

   

  Thomas More Law Center Asks U.S. Supreme Court to Overturn Ninth Circuit Decision Eliminating Parents' Fundamental Rights
  Thu, Nov 2, 2006

  ANN ARBOR, MI—The Thomas More Law Center, a national public interest law firm based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, has submitted a friend of the court brief to the United States Supreme Court on behalf of itself and six United States Congressmen urging the Court to overturn the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals’ decision in Fields v. Palmdale School District, which held that public schools may impart any sexu]]> http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=73 Sat, 31 Dec 2005 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=73 Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court Hears Oral Argument In Case Seeking to Stay Same-Sex Marriage Decision
  Tue, May 3, 2005

  ANN ARBOR, MI — The Thomas More Law Center participated in oral argument before a packed courtroom of the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court in a case seeking to stay the court’s decision in Goodridge v. Department of Public Health, which legalized same-sex marriage. As a result of that decision, same-sex couples have been permitted to marry in Massachusetts as of May 17, 2004.

  Robert Muise, trial counsel with the Law Center handling the case, commented, “This case seeks to preserve the right of the citizens of Massachusetts to have the final say on the issue of marriage. Marriage is a public good. It is a social institution of the highest importance, and it serves as the very basis for the fabric of society. The people as a whole have a real interest in the preservation and protection of this social institution, and it is they who should decide this issue and not four un-elected, justices.”

  The case was filed by the Thomas More Law Center, Citizens for the Preservation of Constitutional Rights (CPCR) and others on behalf of C. Joseph Doyle, the executive director of the Catholic Action League of Massachusetts. Both Muise and Chester Darling, attorney for CPCR, presented oral argument to the Court on behalf of Doyle, asking the high court to stay its ruling pending the resolution of the process currently underway to amend the Commonwealth’s constitution to reverse this decision and ban so-called “same-sex marriage.” The attorneys argued that the court ought to stay its decision out of respect for and in deference to the constitution, which give the ultimate authority on defining marriage to the citizens of the Commonwealth.

   

  Fight for Traditional Marriage Continues – Date For Oral Argument Set In Case Seeking to Block Massachusetts Same-Sex Marriage Decision
  Wed, Apr 13, 2005

  ANN ARBOR, MI — The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court announced that it will hear oral argument on Monday, May 2nd at 9:00 a.m. in a case seeking to block the court’s decision in Goodridge v. Department of Public Health, which legalized same-sex marriage. As a result of that decision, same-sex couples have been permitted to marry in Massachusetts as of May 17, 2004. This case, which is the last legal action surviving that is capable of stopping this decision, was filed by the Thomas More Law Center, Citizens for the Preservation of Constitutional Rights (CPCR) and others on behalf of C. Joseph Doyle, the executive director of the Catholic Action League of Massachusetts.

  Robert Muise, trial counsel handling the case for the Law Center, and Chester Darling, attorney for CPCR, will present oral argument to the Supreme Judicial Court on behalf of Doyle.

  According to Muise, “We are extremely pleased to have an opportunity to argue this historic case before the Supreme Judicial Court. The Massachusetts Constitution ensures the people that judges will not use the law to impose their opinion about how society should be ordered regardless of the democratic will. What happens with the legal institution of marriage should ultimately depend on the democratic processes outlined in the Commonwealth’s Constitution rather than by judicial fiat. This case seeks to preserve this proper balance of power for the Commonwealth.”

   

  Fight Not Over – Massachusetts Supreme Court Grants Oral Argument In Case Seeking to Stay Massachusetts Same-Sex Marriage Decision
  Thu, Feb 10, 2005

  ANN ARBOR, MI — The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court, in an unexpected move, announced that it will hear oral argument in a case brought by the Thom]]> http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=72 Fri, 31 Dec 2004 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=72 Michigan Voters Join Nationwide Mandate in Support of Traditional Marriage – Law Center Prepared to Defend Bans if Challenged
  Wed, Nov 3, 2004

  ANN ARBOR, MI — Michigan voters turned out Tuesday to overwhelmingly support a state constitutional ban on same-sex marriage, by an estimated margin of 60-40%. The Michigan results reflected a national trend where 10 other states also passed constitutional amendments to protect traditional marriage.

  Richard Thompson, President and Chief Counsel of the Thomas More Law Center, which played a significant role in drafting the language of Michigan’s amendment commented, “We have a nationwide mandate in support of traditional marriage. Nevertheless, we expect homosexual activists to mount federal court challenges to these amendments in an effort to defeat the will of the people. We are ready for them.”

  Michigan’s constitutional amendment, considered the broadest of the 11 state amendments, provides that “…the union of one man and one woman in marriage shall be the only agreement recognized as a marriage or similar union for any purpose.” The amendment is intended to prohibit courts or other efforts to impose same-sex marriage, polygamy, or any other form of counterfeit “marriage” on the state.

  Patrick T. Gillen, an attorney with the Thomas More Law Center advising the organizers of Proposal 2 stated, “History and common sense have demonstrated that marriage is a social institution between a man and a woman, which is a natural union that serves as the only firm basis for the natural family.”

  “Voters confirmed that persons with same-sex attractions have no right to demand a radical redefinition of marriage or a radical social experiment with the family,” continued Gillen.

  Proponents of the effort to amend the state constitution point out that an ever-growing body of social science is confirming the vital contribution that traditional marriage makes to the good of the spouses, children and, ultimately, society at large. At the same time, the social sciences continue to confirm the commonsense judgment that the homosexual lifestyle is harmful to adults and children raised in same-sex households.

   

  Poll Shows Michigan Strongly Behind Proposal 2, Traditional Marriage
  Thu, Oct 28, 2004

  ANN ARBOR, MI — A new poll on Michigan’s Proposal 2 published by the Detroit Free Press indicates strong support for the proposed state constitutional amendment that would protect traditional marriage. Thursday’s edition of the Detroit Free Press reported that their latest poll shows 60% of respondents support Proposal 2, while only 35% oppose it.

  Richard Thompson, President and Chief Counsel of the Thomas More Law Center, which aided in drafting the language of the amendment commented, “This amendment is about protecting and promoting the timeless institution of marriage and the family. We all witnessed what happened in Massachusetts earlier this year when the highest court in that state forced gay marriage on the people.”

  The proposed constitutional amendment would define marriage as a union between a man and a woman, and prohibit courts or other efforts to impose same-sex marriage, polygamy, or any other form of marriage on the state.

  Patrick T. Gillen, an attorney with the Thomas More Law Center advising the organizers of Proposal 2 stated, “History and common sense have demonstrated that marriage is a social institution between a man and a woman, which is a natural union that serves as the only firm basis for the natural family.”

  “Those persons with same-sex attractions have no right to demand a radical redefinition of marriage and the family or a radical social experiment with the]]> http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=71 Wed, 31 Dec 2003 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=71 ACLU, University of Michigan, Wayne State University Team Up to Fight Law Center in Ann Arbor Same-Sex Marriage Battle
  Wed, Dec 3, 2003

  ANN ARBOR – The ACLU, University of Michigan, and Wayne State University have requested permission to file briefs in support of public funding of insurance benefits to same-sex partners. Their requests were made in an effort to support the Ann Arbor Public Schools, which was sued by the Thomas More Law Center for providing insurance benefits to the same-sex partners of its employees.

  The Thomas More Law Center filed its lawsuit in September on behalf of 17 Michigan residents claiming that providing insurance benefits to same sex partners is an attempt to institutionalize same- sex marriage in violation of Michigan’s Defense of Marriage Act. The Act passed in 1996 defines marriage as "inherently a unique relationship between a man and a woman,” and maintains that the state "has a special interest in encouraging, supporting, and protecting that unique relationship."

  Richard Thompson, President and Chief Counsel of the Law Center questioned the use of public funds by universities to advance the homosexual agenda. “The people of Michigan should be outraged that their hard earned money paid out in taxes is being used to fund the homosexual agenda in their state. Despite the clear will of the people of Michigan, today’s cultural elites are determined to shove same-sex marriage down our throats and force taxpayers to pay for it.”

  Thompson continued, “The Ann Arbor Public School’s same–sex domestic partnership has all the trappings of marriage except the title. It is an incremental strategy to legitimize same sex marriages contrary to Michigan’s Defense of Marriage Act, and we intend to stop it.”

  In addition to the ACLU, University of Michigan, and Wayne State University, the court will hear requests from the Women’s Law Association and the Washtenaw County Medical Society, all of whom support the Ann Arbor Public Schools. Washtenaw County Circuit Judge David Swartz will hear arguments Wednesday, December 3rd at 4:30 PM.

  The lawsuit is just one of several related efforts by the Thomas More Law Center to defend traditional marriage and block homosexual activists from acquiring the benefits of marriage that would result in the de-facto legalization of same-sex marriage. The Center has worked to stop transsexual marriage in Kansas, homosexual adoption in Nebraska, and is involved in major legal battles over the rights of students and faith based organizations to reject homosexual demands for recognition of their lifestyles and unions.

   

  Federal Judge Compares School’s Censorship of Christian Student During Homosexual Diversity Week to Actions of Nazi Germany
  Wed, Nov 26, 2003

  ANN ARBOR – Detroit Federal Judge Gerald Rosen likened the censorship of a Christian student at Ann Arbor, Michigan Pioneer High School during its 2002 Diversity Week program to the censorship practiced by Nazi Germany. The judge’s comments were made during a scheduled hearing in a federal lawsuit filed by the Thomas More Law Center, a national public interest law firm, on behalf of student Betsy Hansen whose religious views against homosexuality were censored and excluded from the program.

  According to the Detroit Free Press, during Monday’s hearing Judge Rosen asked the school’s attorney “Isn’t this cultural hegemony, where you’re only going to present one view to the exclusion of others?” Don’t you think that smacks of government and religious totalitarianism?” “Isn’t that how we got to book burning in Nazi Germany back in the 1930’s,” asked Rosen.

  During the 2002 Diversity W]]> Archives of 2002's stories and cases. http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=70 Tue, 31 Dec 2002 00:00:00 PST http://www.thomasmore.org/qry/page.taf?id=63&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=70 School Retreats from Pro-Homosexual Policy After Student Christian Club Threatens Lawsuit
  Mon, Oct 14, 2002

  ANN ARBOR, MI - Threats of legal action ended a controversy that had been brewing over the past year at Pioneer High School in Ann Arbor, Michigan, between gay rights activists and the Pioneers for Christ student club. Gay activists had demanded that the School Board take action against the Christian club because the club refused to adopt the school’s “non-discrimination” policy as part of its mission statement.

  According to the Thomas More Law Center, which represented the Christian Club, the policy would have unconstitutionally prohibited members from expressing their Christian view against homosexuality. Under the threat of litigation, the Ann Arbor School Board voted last week to change its policy.

  Robert Muise, associate counsel with the Thomas More Law Center, appearing at a school board meeting earlier in the year warned, “Pioneers for Christ is being singled out simply because its members do not support the agenda of gay rights activists. Presently at Pioneer High School there are faculty members and administrators who desire to promote their personal political agenda at the expense of students’ constitutional and federal statutory rights….the U.S. Constitution and the Equal Access Act . . . protect Pioneers for Christ from such blatant and discriminatory attacks.”

  According to reports, attorneys for the School Board agreed that the policy was not legally defensible, so the Board changed it.

  In a separate but related controversy, during the so-called “Diversity Week” held at Pioneer High School last March, students were not allowed to express their Christian view of homosexuality during a panel discussion that the school sponsored for the purpose of discussing religion and homosexuality. The Gay Straight Alliance student club, with the support of school officials, monopolized this discussion by presenting only the view of several adults who claimed to be clergy of denominations that support the homosexual lifestyle. School officials prevented any other view to be expressed during this event, which occurred during the school day. This has resulted in a federal lawsuit, which was filed this past July by the Thomas More Law Center on behalf of Betsy Hansen and her mother, challenging the school’s actions. This lawsuit is distinct from the non-discrimination policy controversy and, according to Center attorneys, will continue.

  According to Attorney Muise, “We are pleased that the School Board recognized that its so-called ‘non-discrimination’ policy was constitutionally suspect and that it threatened the rights of Christian students and others. We believe that our lawsuit against the School Board over the Pioneer High School ‘Diversity Week’ events, which is separate but related to the non-discrimination policy issue, will cast further light on the way that gay rights activists are improperly influencing the public school system.”

  The Thomas More Law Center defends and promotes religious freedom, time-honored family values, and the sanctity of human life through education, litigation, and related activities. The Center provides its services without charge and is dependent upon individual donations, foundations and corporations for support. The Thomas More Law Center is recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) organization. You may contact the Center at (734) 827-2001 or visit our website at www.thomasmore.org.

   

  Public High School Pushes Homosexual Agenda and Discriminates Against Christian Student During “Diversity Week” – Federal Lawsuit Filed