I think LT McDonough’s decision to transfer his PSG Hernandez was the correct decision because ultimately allowing Hernandez to continue on with immoral behavior would be tolerating potentially toxic behavior that would threaten the entire platoon. LT McDonough displays moral courage in transferring PSG Hernandez because although he runs the risk of alienating other soldiers who were partial to Hernandez and also chances losing a PSG he learned how to work with and his capabilities, he understands he must act resolutely when he recognizes dishonorable behavior. I believe the risks are worth the potential benefits as while LT McDonough may disturb the status quo of the platoon, ultimately SGT Hernandez dishonorable behavior in this instance bespeak a lack of morality among a leader in his platoon and thus has the potential to influence others. LT McDonough’s decision is prudent and reflects his moral courage to avoid tolerating unacceptable behavior.
I think the current enforced prohibition of alcohol is the more appropriate policy as it prevents numerous problems and mistakes that are magnified through the use of alcohol, particularly after long periods of abstaining from drinking. While the soda and beer provided a moral booster for McDonough’s men, ultimately there are other ways to boost morale and relax that do not run the risk of exacerbating or creating major issues for soldiers.
I agree with LT McDonough’s assertion that a leader must constantly acknowledge the balance between the laws of land and warfare and pragmatic concerns, however I believe there is a line that cannot be crossed. There are many decisions a leader must make that are context based. For example, when LT McDonough contemplates the morality of using locals to help navigate boobytraps he clearly contemplates the morality and necessity of this course of action. However, I think LT McDonough crosses a line when he threatens to kill the local farmer when he resists helping. Ultimately LT McDonough’s actions were influenced by the “gruesome toll of boobytraps” and his own bias and anxiety trying to protect himself and his men. As LT McDonough states, it is the leaders responsibility to draw the line and he asserts you cannot compromise on your morality too often. I agree with LT McDonough’s statements, however I do believe that the very nature of some core aspects of morality should not be comprised or balanced.
An interesting part of the reading I would be interested to hear others’ opinions on is when the RD is found in the ammo bunker attempting to detonate inside the patrol base. This part intrigued me because it was a top-down policy to try and win the hearts and minds that created a situation in which U.S. soldiers were forced to trust Vietnamese without anyway to ensure their intentions. Today soldiers find themselves in similar situations, both in implementing policies created in Washington and in dealing with the respective local populace. I am interested in my peers opinions on how LT McDonough handled this situation and what their opinions are in dealing with this issue in general.