Manning family issue statement
Manning family issue statement
The family of Bradley Manning has issued a statement to the Guardian giving their reaction to todays verdict. The statement is written by Mannings US-based aunt, who has asked to remain anonymous, speaking on behalf of the soldiers family:
While we are obviously disappointed in todays verdicts, we are happy that Judge Lind agreed with us that Brad never intended to help Americas enemies in any way. Brad loves his country and was proud to wear its uniform.
We want to express our deep thanks to David Coombs, who has dedicated three years of his life to serving as lead counsel in Brads case. We also want to thank Brads Army defense team, Major Thomas Hurley and Captain Joshua Tooman, for their tireless efforts on Brads behalf, and Brads first defense counsel, Captain Paul Bouchard, who was so helpful to all of us in those early confusing days and first suggested David Coombs as Brads counsel. Most of all, we would like to thank the thousands of people who rallied to Brads cause, providing financial and emotional support throughout this long and difficult time, especially Jeff Paterson and Courage to Resist and the Bradley Manning Support Network. Their support has allowed a young Army private to defend himself against the full might of not only the US Army but also the US Government.
http://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/jul/30/bradley-manning-trial-verdict-live