Sailors' Abuse Kept Silent in Navy Canine Unit: THE FALLOUT

ABOUT

Posted by Rachel Krantz on August 26, 2009 at 12:44pm

[Click here for Page Two]

As for the sailors from the Military Working Dogs unit, those Youth Radio interviewed who took the risk of participating in the investigation have seen no public accountability within their military leadership. “I would like to see the people responsible for allowing this to go unpunished be held accountable,” says Rocha, “and in doing so setting an example throughout the armed forces that the values of honor, courage and commitment and are more than just a tagline.”

An undetermined number of sailors from the unit are struggling with the after-effects of the hazing and abuse they suffered or witnessed.

Joseph Christopher Rocha (at left) has been diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder by Veterans Affairs.

Shaun Hogan (at right) says he is haunted by personal guilt.

"I was duty bound to protect those under my command; Petty Officer Rocha [and] several others. I have a lot of regret for not having spoken up at the time and intervening... and the reason I didn't was because I felt threatened myself. Chief Toussaint had shown he will throw people out of the kennel. The last thing he did when he left was threaten me, that if he hears anything that doesn't agree with him, he knows people, and he'll seek to have my certification to handle dogs removed."

A female member of the unit, who asked not to be named, says after her “horrible” deployment in Bahrain, she was ready to quit the military. Then she was transferred to a new base and decided to stay, determined to become a different kind of leader.

"How can we sit there and try to promote honor, courage and commitment when we have people like that in the military?” she said, “That's why I hope I can make rank and make a difference somehow, in a small way, hopefully."

As for Rocha, after his assignment in Bahrain, he chose a path towards officer training. But the hardest moment came when he decided to walk away from that, and with it, his lifelong dream of a military career. He says there are lots of reasons behind that painful choice: the lack of public accountability for the abuse he suffered in Bahrain; the fear that the abuse at his next deployment could be as bad or worse; and the vision of a life where he'd be lying to himself everyday about his sexuality and who he is, just to keep his job.

In the end, it only took three words.

"I am homosexual."

Rocha's official statement went on:

"I am proud of my service and had hoped that I'd be able to serve the navy and country for my entire career. However…I must be honest with myself, courageous in my beliefs and committed to my course of action. I understand this statement will be used to end my naval career."

(Read the full statement.)

On the basis of that statement, Rocha was officially discharged by the U.S. Navy.

(64) comments | permalink

hogan

Submitted by Anonymous on Tue, 10/06/2009 - 15:48.

wow hogan was so worthless

MA2 Hogan

Submitted by Anonymous on Mon, 10/05/2009 - 17:43.

Hogan was a fat ass

Advancement

Submitted by Anonymous on Fri, 09/25/2009 - 03:18.

I think you should look into how the MA community advanced anyone and everyone after 9/11. Most of the E-5s that made E-6 and above in the years following 9/11. There were many dirt bags from other navy communities who took a lateral transfer to the MA community to make rank. Buff, tough guys who were eager to "fight" after 9/11. Little did they know they would go on to lead very very young sailors. Bahrain saw a massive increase in 21 and under sailors in a very short period. DUIs increased, pregnancies, etc. Also, people advanced very fast. 20 year old E-5s in two years. Those immature young adults wanted to be good leaders but there were few in Bahrain to emulate...but there were some solid leaders. Such a shame. Everyone should be ashamed of themselves for not saying anything. We saw them walk the base with buckets, heard of the chair incident. Such a shame the investigation was a failure and another dirt bag is being protected from judgment.

humm...

Submitted by Anonymous on Thu, 09/24/2009 - 17:42.

It sounds like Toussiant ran amuck. Where was MACS Caccio? (sp?) MACS was a stand up guy who would have put a stop to this. Such a sad sad thing for Valdivia's family. Hogan was young and very smart. He was always positive and I remember how proud he was to get picked up for the MWD program.

If these allegations had merit someone would be in jail

Submitted by Anonymous on Wed, 09/23/2009 - 19:00.

I am a retired Senior NCO from the MP Community, poor leadership at all levels is causing this tragedy to get blown out of proportion. The family and comrades of MA1 Valdivia is in my prayers for this needless loss. The innocent family members and unit personnel of the Bahrain Security Force are also in my prayers. The article and postings are informative, but one sided, the incidents that happened at the Kennels are by-products of what happens in close knit units everywhere, in small elite type units still sophomoric stunts still happen everyday, this story was incorrectly associated with torturing Iraqi detainees. There is no question that lines were crossed but was there criminal intent? Forms of hazing still happen in police departments, swat units and all types of close knit units, it is part of unit cohesion and what sets them apart from the others. In all seriousness if there was enough evidence to prosecute the Senior Chief and the Petty Officers, the Navy would have done so. No unit commander and the entire chain of command is going to cover up criminal activity, these guys would have been slammed hard. Think about the allegations and all the felonies involved, even using prostitutes is against the UCMJ, think about it. There are other facts and issues that are at play here, not a chain of command that tolerated criminals. There are no officers willing to risk their careers, retirements and benefits to protect the guilty. In all fairness to the Navy, would they risk all the bad PR associated with another scandal by not taking action, think about it? The corner stone of the military is discipline and in the modern Navy the chain of command would have dealt with matter effectively and swiftly, it is a moot story now and just a slap in the face to all the good, solid troops doing a great job, under stressful conditions in the middle east. It is these GREAT TROOPS that keep us free!! Since the Vietnam era, the media has a grudge against the military, and other government organizations like the VA and the CIA to name a few. They will use anyone or any incident to disrespect the armed forces, so what if the reputation of the innocent is tarnished in the process. The innocent troops are unfairly lumped into the story. How is Abu Graib connected here? It's not but the scandal was mentioned in the same article as the Bahrain Kennels, that stinks people it is an unfair to compare the two units. There is no connection other then they are both military units in the middle east. The media never fails to take a swing at the great organizations that do so much and ask nothing in return. It is not fair to memory of MA1 Maldivia, the Navy and all the great troops serving the US to be used by the media, even if it was the youth media. Carry On Comrades, thanks for your service!!

Almost embarrassed to be from a Navy family

Submitted by Anonymous on Wed, 09/23/2009 - 16:43.

I am proud of my father, and my grandfather, both sailors, veterans, and loyal Americans. Both were NCOs. When I asked them if they thought this story was a little BS (hoping they'd say yes), they both agreed that this is not far fetched at all (but my grandfather did sadly say "that's why queers shouldn't be allowed in anyway"...guess his old fashioned ideas aren't that old fashioned). Those who have vilified the victims and glorified the criminals in this situation remind me of a lot of the assholes I've known in the Navy. Macho, unintelligent, ignorant, and scared. That's why they haze anyone different. Fear and stupidity. Their K9s put them to shame....

Michael Toussaint is on here posting

Submitted by Anonymous on Tue, 09/22/2009 - 19:21.

It's so obvious that Michael Toussaint has serious mental issues...if it ain't true why get on here defend yourself? Get off the website and protect our country. My dad is in military, a general, he was upset to know you are on here posting. Everyone say goodbye to Michael Toussaint, his career is over. Reading the posts of him defending himself actually proves his mental state. This could even be a civil lawsuit.

Senior

Submitted by Anonymous on Thu, 09/10/2009 - 09:17.

Toussaint for president.

For Resident you mean

Submitted by Anonymous on Thu, 09/10/2009 - 14:02.

A resident of Leavenworth, there are openings there.

Resident:

Submitted by Anonymous on Mon, 09/14/2009 - 22:30.

Your comment made me laugh so hard! Thank you! I would like to know about the "man" whom was LPO prior to MA1 Valdivia, MA1 John Harris. Here was a stellar sailor! He was married with a fairly new baby in the states, and yet, he was living with the Mama San in his government quarters in Bahrain. Infact, Harris and his mistress, Mama San, had a few of her "girls" living there as well. I know this because they all informed a very junior sailor, while he visited, that Toussaint is the "quickly man". Toussaint, Harris, MA1 Evans as well as a few others even convinced an 18yr old handler to lose his virginity one of these prostitute. These "highly respectable" MORONS informed him he better learn what to do because when he finally got a girlfriend she would leave him due to his lack of experience. Maybe this is why John Harris had the Mama San move into his government quarters with her girls; he needed all the experience he could get to keep his wife. So while you all are following the Quickly Man into "austere locations" be certain to swoop up John Harris and Ron Evans and PLEASE take them with you as well.

Shaun Hogan

Submitted by Anonymous on Thu, 09/10/2009 - 09:11.

I read your statement and I can't decide if you're confused or extremely upset. If the Navy didn't do anything about this than you and your friend are lying or there is no evidence. It seems as though you have forgotten that our country is still a country with laws. Laws that you have seemed to have forgotten in your quest to punish an innocent man. I say this because you have forgotten dew process of law, which provides that a man is innocent until proven guilty. If the investigation was complete and as you said Toussaint wasn't charge, than he is innocent, and you and your friend are seeking revenge. I think that lashing out like this is something that seems very childish and against everything you seem to stand for. As far as having a law degree, that doesn't make you an investigator. That makes you a lawyer, who as you said did an investigation that was submitted and it appears that it was one sided with no statements from Toussaint or anyone else for that matter. Now he more than likely got a lawyer or remained silent (his right), but no charges were filed based on the investigation. Now, if no charges were filed based on this investigation, then there was no evidence, and it makes you guys look like your lying. I may not know much about the Military, but I do know that the laws are similar and based on the constitution. I really think you guys need to do some soul searching and move on with your lives. You'll never move forward (not talking about your education) and will always dwell on this. I don't know you from Adam, but you seem disturbed to the point that you may be having problems in your life that have stemmed from the fact that this incident didn't turn out the way you wanted. One more thing, in this day and age things don't get covered up, there are too many checks and balances for that and you may be watching too much NCIS. I won't post my name for fear that you might try to attack me also, and add it to your list of people you want to hurt and too help in your quest for a strange sort of personal therapy. Really move on with your life, it's too short. .

Open Letter to "Move On"

Submitted by Anonymous on Mon, 09/14/2009 - 20:09.

Sir, I would like to thank you for taking the time to offer your insight. I do however disagree with your contentions that my colleagues and I are angry and not moving on with our lives. To be entirely honest, I had come to accept that Michael Toussaint and Timothy Shaw would never be charged well over a year ago. That changed when Youth Radio contacted me clear out of the blue about this story. I looked in the mirror and realized that not only was it time to tell this true story about cruel and horrific abuses but that for once someone would listen to me. At the time of the investigation, the very institution that I served and continue to serve did not even take the time to listen to what I had to say after Captain Braden submitted his report. The prosecutor never bothered to speak with any of the witnesses. My sincere feeling is that she received marching orders to drop this matter. As a military police officer, I am very aware of the law and I do believe in due process. That however does not mean that one should look the other way, simply forget about it, or "give up the ship" so to speak. It all goes back to our core values of Honor, Courage, and Commitment. People were physically and mentally hurt, lost their careers, and in Valdivia's case her life all because of this man. If you can not understand why having the courage and commitment to seek justice is not an honorable pursuit, than this is not a debate I can win with you sir. I believe in the law and that we all deserve our day in court. Their is nothing that can stop Toussaint or Shaw from requesting a trial by courts-martial to clear their name. Remote as the odds may be, perhaps the public attention that the good work generated here by Ms. Krantz and Youth Radio will motivate Senior Chief Toussaint and Petty Officer Shaw to request a trial. If they are truly innocent, than what is there to stop them? You state that in this day and age, cover-ups simply can not happen. I would like to refer you to a very sad and alarming article at the following web address: http://www.truthout.org/article/us-military-keeping-secrets-about-female-soldiers-suicides . Sadly, cover-ups and lies continue even today in our military. The stories surrounding the death of Pat Tillman and rescue of Jessica Lynch began as blatant lies told by the military. I do not know if you are in the service, a dog handler, or a fellow shipmate but if you are being completely objective, then I would respectfully request that you keep an open mind. I would also ask that you and everyone else who wants to lend credit to their posts kindly state your name. Many of us are concerned about the consequences of identifying ourselves. Their is no consequence worse than the one paid by MA1 Valdivia. Let us all do the honorable thing and come out from behind the anonymous shadow. Respectfully, Shaun M. Hogan

"Move On" Have You Ever Served?

Submitted by Anonymous on Thu, 09/10/2009 - 13:57.

Your condescending rant leads me to believe you either never served, or you are a zero. If you ever served, don't BS us; you know as well as me that the Navy covers things up all the time. They let the perps walk and promote them, and the true leaders, the people with a conscience, morals and honesty are rebuked and punished. Joseph Rocha and Shaun Hogan should be commended and the people who fail to lead and protect their commands from corruption need to be held accountable. The young men both ARE moving forward with their lives, and I am sure they will lead far more productive lives than the cowards who created that cesspool in the Bahrain unit. By the way "move on" there is one more person who will never be able to move on with her life. Jennifer Valdivia; Sailor of the Year for Bahrain, a fine sailor who loved the Navy more than anything and was devastated and destroyed by the toxic command leadership.

Thank you for your support of Jen "Val" Valdivia Young

Submitted by Anonymous on Sat, 09/12/2009 - 21:12.

Thank you for taking the time to post your comment. It means alot to me that there are people like you still thinking about Jen. I am her mother and horrified by some of the things that I have read. But your comment helped me alot. Thank you Deb Young (Jennifers Mother)

Response to Mrs. Young

Submitted by Anonymous on Mon, 09/14/2009 - 15:29.

Mrs. Young, My heart goes out to you and your family. I worked for MA1 Valdivia in Bahrain. I hope one day you receive answers. Although, answers will not bring her back to you hopefully they will console you in your grief. I am truly sorry for your loss.

Have I ever served?

Submitted by Anonymous on Fri, 09/11/2009 - 17:53.

Maybe you should read my post again. With your eyes open this time. You seem to be one sided and your level of your service seems to be at an all time low. If you read my post you'll see that I'm making a comment based on what was posted in the investigation and comments made by Mr. Hogan. I think you should understand that certain people have certain circumstances that do not allow them to serve. The laws allow me the right to post whatever I feel like posting and for you to do the same. I think that you should educate yourself on these laws and the due process of law. One is not a thief, if he is not found guilty, one is not a rapist if he is not found guilty. These are the rights that our service members fought for and are defending everyday. As far as covering things up, well it seems an investigation was done. So, how is this covering things up? It seems that the Navy's leaders didn't cover this up, but investigated it. Do you feel they covered this up but not posting it on "My Space" or "Facebook?" Because the outcome was not what these two fellows wanted, do you feel it was a cover up? I would really like to know what you mean by your comment, and if it's all the time did one happen today? I really don't see how they are moving on with their lives when they are living in the past. It seems that this happend almost five years ago. Please explain to me how this is moving on? I can tell you that I'm not in the same position I was in five years ago. You seem very bitter towards the Navy, and one would think that your comments are as you said "Toxic." If you're in a leadership position I would hope that you are not infecting your soldiers with this toxic attitude. I have nephews in the military and I know that they are serving our country with pride and I know that my one nephew who is in the United States Marine Corps is serving proudly and tells me that this was one of the best moves in his life. I don't think his father who served 30 years in the United States Marine Corps would have allowed his son to join the service if he had the same outlook as you have. I will not comment on the woman you spoke about, but will offer my prays for her family. God bless our men and women in uniform and I pray that they all come home safe.

Some people arent meant for the kilo community

Submitted by Anonymous on Thu, 09/10/2009 - 09:05.

I have personally worked for Senior and I will be happy to follow him wherever he goes even after hearing all this. I was working for him before he was moved to another command while this was going on only to keep him out of the spot light from the airforce. The problem was that it leaked out so it blew up into something bigger. I have met PO rocha when we tested for 3rd together and he came off cocky but excited to go back to bahrain as of sep 05. and i am as cocky as it gets to i knew. hogan, dont really care to much for him and i dont even know him. when people are unhappy they are going to cry about it so sometimes you gotta get tough or get out. its the kilo way, we all know that. if you can't handle this job, go to a ship or join the air force. but i have talked to people that were their during that time and this article really doesnt add up. and i do feel bad for the kilo female who killed herself, i really do, but there were two sides to the story on what happened with her. this thing about rocha crying about everything had nothing to do with it. im sorry to say, but as a kilo, you have to be tough, cocky, good at what you with an attitude and ready to fight. if you aint, get out of my kennels. i will fight for and next to Senior any day he asks. You ask 99% of all the Kilo's in the navy, i bet they all say he is the man or have respect for him. those who dont really didnt take the time to know him. yes, people feared him but because that was their choice. he gave you a hand and it was your choice to take it. he was their to help. he helped me and family out as well as the other trainers at the dog training school. He had the respect from his subordinates and the respect AND fear from his superiors from all branches. these boys couldn't handle being a Kilo, charges dropped because no proof and stories weren't adding up. Senior is cleared and is at DevGru.....respectfully kilo in bahrain

Open Letter to Petty Officer Joe Roller aka Kilo In Bahrain

Submitted by Anonymous on Mon, 09/14/2009 - 20:50.

Shipmate, I find it interesting that though we never met, you "don't really care too much" for me. Why exactly is it that as a MWD handler you need to be cocky? Their are in fact quite a few terrific handlers I have met who are incredibly humble - the furthest thing in the world from cocky. Being one of these humble individuals, I successfully handled a MWD in Bahrain that very very few handlers could read. As I recall even Senior Chief Toussaint struggled to read this dog when assessing him. After I transferred the much exalted "boy wonder" of the Navy MWD world, Chief (Select) Clark, failed to certify with this particular dog because he could not read his change of behavior. I went on to certify with and successfully handle two dogs while supervising a kennel all at the same time following Bahrain. MA2 Boone, MA2 Brown, MA2 J. Nelson, MA1 Chaparro, MA1 Farlow, MA1 Washington, MA1 Aldrich - all outstanding MWD handlers and none are cocky or self-absorbed. In fact, now that I think of it, almost all of the handlers that were chummy with Senior Chief Toussaint - MA2 Calabro, Chief (Select) Clark, MA2 Pfleiderer, Chief Evans, Senior Chief Deal, and MA2 Mitchell to name but a few were exactly the sort of person you describe yourself as - cocky. Let me ask you something Petty Officer Roller, if you are so fond of Toussaint and so certain that he is an innocent, good, and decent man, why then do you not stand behind your defense of the man by signing your name? Honor, Courage, Commitment - do the Navy's core value mean anything to you or are they just words to be repeated mindlessly in some cult-like mantra? If they do mean something to you, then you will have the Courage to reply, Honorably defend the man who you will follow "wherever he goes", and remain Committed to the cause of his defense. Somehow I doubt you will accept my challenge but I hope you prove me wrong. I hope you and everyone else who has spoken up to defend Toussaint on these comment pages has the intestinal fortitude to come forward by contacting Ms. Krantz at Youth Radio, identify yourself, and go on record to defend him. In fact, I think it would be really terrific if Senior Chief Toussaint himself had the gumption to call in and defend himself. Somehow, I don't believe he has the spine to wither the tough questions he would be asked. Thank you for your service, watch your six out in the field, and I look forward to your reply. R/ Shaun M. Hogan

Kilo in Baharain: You are right, but wrong

Submitted by Anonymous on Thu, 09/10/2009 - 14:14.

Dear Kilo, Thanks for your service. You are right some people aren't meant for the kilo community, but you are wrong on who. The leaders who allow abuse break down the Navy, not build it up. True leaders stand up for themselves and for their subordinates. They take resonsilbilty for their actions-- they don't get clandestinely whisked away to another command to "keep them out of the spot light". That is what a coward does. The leaders of tomorrow have integrity, fortitude and know right from wrong. They have moral strength-- and that was sorely missing with Seniior Chief Toussaint and those who allowed his vitriol to flourish and destroy the life of one young woman and derail the careers of others who had the gonads to speak up.

What about the MA1 that killed herself?

Submitted by Anonymous on Wed, 09/09/2009 - 10:17.

This article really does push my buttons. It isn’t just homosexuals that are “screwed over” and hazed. I transferred shortly before this came out of the woodwork. A woman killed herself because of this. She was taking a lot of the heat concerning the abuse and hazing happening in the kennels. The investigation was in full swing, but was - for the lack of better words - dropped because the key witness committed suicide. So what about her story? He survived and has PTSD. At least he’s alive. Why isn’t there a story about the MA1 that killed herself because of this? What crappy reporting that they didn’t provide a reason why the MA1 killed herself, why she was even involved in the investigation to begin with. It amazing me the Rocha is playing the poor me card, when he is still living and breathing. Make something of yourself Rocha because she killed herself for you and because of you. As for Senior Chief Toussaint - he may not have been formally charged, found guilty or whatever you want to call it - the kennel world is a small world. There are some who still support him and others that realize that he is a d*bag and rank him below what comes out of the dogs butt. He may still have his rank and job - but he doesn't have respect. And he has to live with the fact that the MA1 that killed herself - did it because of him, because of his actions. Moving on to the topic of homosexuals in the military. That really irks me when I read posts that say "if your gay why join - don't sign until you can be out while in the military" (I paraphrased sorry) While I was in Bahrain, I had two homosexuals in my office. They were never treated adversely. I think that really needs to be pointed out right now. Not everyone is anti-homosexual in the Navy. Nor do you have to be homosexual to experience hazing. If you flaunt it in front of your Commander - well duh they are going to kick you out on the don't ask don't tell policy. DON'T flaunt your personal business. There are things that are appropriate to talk about in the work place and things that aren't - just like in the civilian sector. Don't bring your personal life into the military. Additionally, there are those who do report adverse behavior. Including hazing. Sometimes it's investigated and other times it isn't. Sometimes it's pushed under the rug because the "guilty party" plays the right poor me cards and the command over looks it. I've seen several people have their NEC's pulled because of hazing - one specifically while in Bahrain. It was reinstated because some officer who didn't have a clue and didn't bother to investigate it signed off on its reinstatement. (this particular person is now a kennel master) I’ve seen excellent Chief’s go to bat for a sailor who screwed up once, brush it under the rug only to have it come back and bite them in the ass because someone has it out of them. The sailor the Chief helped out went on to make First Class in six years. The Chief took early retirement. Ironically, good men and women that wear the uniform can go before the Captain on hearsay alone. And those rumor’s aren’t just contained to the command – they spread across the world – especially in the kennel world because it is so small.

What Did Happen MA1 Jennifer Valdivia?

Submitted by Anonymous on Wed, 09/09/2009 - 14:05.

Anon- 9/9: please don't blame PO Rocha or gays in general-- hazing can and does happen to many people. He just happened to have the courage and opportunity to finally speak out about it. I agree with you that there are still many questions regarding the death of Jennifer Valdivia. Don't you think it is suspicious that the key witness in the investigation turns up dead on the day the report is filed? That was a timely, convenient break for those who perpetrated and allowed this to go on...and who stated to their subordinates: "What happens in the kennel stays in the kennel" and "God help anyone who airs our dirty laundry." A formal investigation into the death of PO Valdivia needs to be done.

I agree

Submitted by Anonymous on Thu, 09/10/2009 - 16:28.

There are bigger issues then if you are gay or not. It amazes me that all the press releases and comments focus so strongly on the gay issue - that the hazing happened to a homosexual, making it sound like hazing only happens to homosexuals. It doesn't. However, it certainly makes for better headlines, doesn't it? This case certainly has become a one of gay rights. Which, while a valid point, it shouldn't be. Protection of all sailors, soldiers and airmen needs to be the issue. Why MA1 Valdivia killer herself is the issue. Hogan talks about having to live with the guilt - and I think it's great that he went on public record concerning this. However, let's not forget that he and others participated - either by force or because he or she wanted to belong. Are they truly innocent? Should they be punished? Should their careers be ruined because of this? What about the investigators that found Senior Chief "not guilty"? They followed the orders of their superiors - but they also didn't protect their fellow sailors. Yet, all the focus is on Senior Chief. I am not saying that everyone else should take the fall for Senior - that they are the only guilty ones. I am saying that just because you are ordered to do something doesn't mean that you are no longer responsible for your actions. Right or wrong, your actions are your actions. It amazes me that so many people respond by blaming someone else or dragging up "dirt" on someone else when they are in the hot-seat. I've seen it over and over again in the military. Look at other cases of hazing: when I first joined the Navy, my best friends bother was a PO1, and he told me not to. His reason was because when he crossed the equator he had to crawl across the deck in his boxers (and if any of you have been on a Naval ship you'll understand what I am talking about) He also had to drink toilet water - that was not clean. All because it was his first time crossing the equator. Hazing? Yes. Was he gay? No, he was married with two kids. Was he an excellent sailor? according to his service records he was. Rules had changed when I finally joined and hazing became a huge no-no. Instant captain's mast if caught doing it. But it still occurs because there are still "old school" sailors out and about, that are teaching the "newcomers". Marines, Air Force, Army have the same issue. There are bigger issues then being gay in the military. You can be a homosexual and be in the military - after all the recruiters prep you by saying "if they ask you, just say no." Several of my friends are homosexuals and are still active duty and are excellent sailors - they are smart about it though, they don't flaunt it. I am straight and I still don't flaunt my personal relationship at the work place. Work-place etiquette counts for something still.

Shaun Hogan and Joseph Rocha: Profiles of Courage

Submitted by Anonymous on Wed, 09/09/2009 - 09:40.

Thank you Shaun and Joseph for speaking up against the abuse and complete collapse of order, discipline and leadership at the Bahrain command. The rotten core of leadership destroys the organization from the inside out. Like the Catholic Church abuse scandal, the leaders haved allowed the abuse to fester by promoting the abusers and turning a blind eye. The Navy, under mounting public pressure, may now take measures to pursue accountability. Silence and fear are what allow miscreants like Toussaint grow like a virus. You are the future- the leaders who exemplify courage, honor and commitment. You embody the values of what the Navy is really about. Coming forward has made a difference, and will help other servicemembers. Please keep pursuing justice on this. CG, USN-Retired

Oh so sad for Petty Officer PTSD

Submitted by Anonymous on Thu, 09/10/2009 - 09:15.

really, bahrain, ptsd? in one week compared to rochas entire career, i have gone through more physical and mental pain. im still in. handlers coming back from iraq and afghan have seen some major crap and are still in. I would dare rocha to walk in with his uniform on with his national defense ribbon as his highest award into the VA where there are a bunch of soldiers and marines with limbs cut off and say he has PTSD because he was hazed and because he left the military cuz he was gay. i am sure they would do worse things than what was claimed to happen to him in bahrain.

You Read My Mine

Submitted by Anonymous on Mon, 09/14/2009 - 07:54.

I couldn't have expressed myself any better. I am Kilo, I have been down range. I have been shot at, I have been in mortar attacks and here I stand, blessed to be alive and have all the limbs that God gave me. I can't bring myself to even compare myself to those soldiers, sailors, and marines in the VA that have lost a limb or their minds for that matter, by saying I am suffering from PTSD. PTSD, seriously...dude, can you say "sym-pathy..." Kilo is a different breed, and those two in my opinion didn't fit. I know PO1 Hogan, and he was not that impressive, he should have gone to mass on several occasions, but who saved your butt PO1 Hogan? You have to have tough skin, you have to be strong willed and strong minded. Rocha, I am all for homosexuals, but I feel that it is a cop out for you to use what you claimed happened in Bahrain as an excuse for not following your dreams. If you were that outstanding sailor that you claimed to be why didn't you put on khakis' and those bars and help fix the problems. Obviously those Navy Core Values he plays on truly meant nothing to him, he was just using them as an attention getting. Seriously!!! Senior Chief is deployed putting it on the line for our country and we have two disgruntled sailors that could not hack it as Kilo, tarnishing his name and reputation. I have the uttermost respect for Senior and I too would follow him anywhere. He is a good and genuine leader.

Reply to "You Read My Mine"

Submitted by Anonymous on Wed, 10/07/2009 - 14:52.

I am very concerned about your mental and physical well being from reading your post. You clearly are abusing alcohol, illegal drugs or have the education of a 3rd grader. If you are actually a K-9 handler (Kilo) then you are given the ability to access, carry and utilize firearms as well as other various weapons (your K-9 being one of them). Now I fear for everyone and everything near you. I am unable to understand most of your post. What does Mass and the Catholic Church have to do with PO1 Hogan or anything reported? Was Hogan's "butt" in need of saving from Mass? If so, who did save his "butt" from Mass? Was this Mass held in the base chapel? You also state, "Rocha, I am all for homosexuals"..........are you trying to tell us that you too are a homosexual and are upset with "Rocha" as a homosexual for his behavior? Are you wanting to know why he chose not to follow through with becoming an Academy Officer so he could help your community and their rights as homosexuals? Are you under the impression that Academy Officers have more power than OCS, Direct Commission, STAY21 or LDO Officers? You claim that you have been fired upon and that you are happy to be alive. I think you should make all of your fellow personnel happy that you are alive as well. You can accomplish this by 1- getting the mental help, you desperately need. 2- take an English class or two so that you may express yourself to others. 3- look up the words good, genuine and leader in the dictionary. If the dictionary is troublesome google the words. You will not find this Senior Chief anywhere near them. 4-Evaluate whom you "would follow anywhere". To follow this Senior Chief anywhere expresses the inablility to think for oneself, lack of self esteem as well as the lack of moral and ethical values. -Your Fellow Veteran

Nicely said

Submitted by Anonymous on Thu, 09/10/2009 - 16:34.

BRAVO! Bahrain was a vacation spot compared to other parts of the Middle East. Anyone that tells you differently is lying. And for the record Not all of Bahrain is corrupt.

Not all Bahrain is corrupt??? You must be talken off base

Submitted by Anonymous on Mon, 09/14/2009 - 21:35.

Only at NSA Bahrain does the following happen... 1) an Ensign/junior Security Officer can get away with gettin a E-3 Seaman prego 2) a self-declared suicidal sailor can be re-armed, declared fit for duty and the first dayback on watch nock off two shipmates, screw up his own suicide, and remain a Masterat-Arms and uncharged 3) a sailor can be drugged by a friend, gang raped an when her supervisor finds out about it tells her to keep better company in the future 4) sailors go on 2 nights of crazy destruction out on the iland stealing religious Shia black flags and Bahrain national flag 5) a sailor can report an attempted rape to her supervisors, be ordered to work alone with her attacker after , be written up for refusing to obey that order, and than forced to work in tereor with her attacker for weeks 6) a square away sailor with a outstanding performance recard be discharged from the Navy for making a bad joke and not allowed to defend himself or call witness 7) a sailor at a suppose Zero Tolrence For DUI command not be busted down a rank evan tho admits to operating a car drunk 8) a sailor can get caught paying for a hore with his government credit card and as his only punishment be ordered to give a lesson on proper use of a government credit card 9) a sailor can discharge a 60 caliber round into a school bus full of sailors and not be punished 10) a sailor can go AWOL and be rewarded when he come back return with much better job that most people would give their first child to have All that an what is in the documents an you think Bahrain is not corrupt? Friend you must be high as a gerraff. I wanna smoke some of what you got

Toussaint a hero! Oh my lord I'm going to throw up.....

Submitted by Anonymous on Tue, 09/08/2009 - 18:17.

This man has been doing the same thing on his wife for a decade and everyone knows it. So stop saying crap you know is true. Hurt his name or family??? what about Val and her family, or the victems that suffered becasue of the hazing. Even if it was no big deal "so some people say"... It might have not been a big deal to you, but to others it could be the world. I think stuff happened and even if some of it happened. ITS STILL WRONG AND THE LEADERS SHOULD HAVE DONE SOMETHING. Its never to later to correct a worng.... Remember that people. We all know who was over there during that time and whos still in. dont be nieve! This man is a coward and has runied a lot of peoples careers for his own gained. If you are standing by him you are either his wife, his mistress, a former lover, or a former handler that is just as guilty. This stuff disguss me.....

MIKe Toussaint

Submitted by Anonymous on Fri, 10/02/2009 - 17:04.

You do not even know Tpussaint, He is a fine person, some gay guy is trying to make trouble. He has a very good family life.

To person about to "throw up"

Submitted by Anonymous on Mon, 09/14/2009 - 22:06.

Thank GOD someone finally said it! I am so sick of hearing about Toussaint's wife and family. The same "family" he's disrepected for forever and a day! Why should we think of them? He doesn't! I assure you he did not think of them while keeping many of the whore houses in Bahrain and Dubai in business! I also doubt he thought of them at Miller's little party he and Deal attended where a prostitute was beaten! If Toussaint is a hero then Lucifer must walk on water!

Open Letter to disgusted

Submitted by Anonymous on Mon, 09/14/2009 - 21:46.

Sir/Ma'am, I would like to thank you for adding your voice to this matter on the comment page. I do not recognize who you are but I have a strong suspicion we served together. I understand why so many people are afraid to identify themselves. I would ask that you strongly consider contacting Youth Radio about what you know. They will maintain your privacy if you request but it is important that you share your insight. The more of us who speak out, the more credibility it will give all of us. If you are a fellow Master-at-Arms, than I am certain you must believe in justice. Please help us seek the justice all of us deserve. As Master-at-Arms, we have a duty to do the right thing no matter how hard or scary it may be. Many of us failed to act back then - myself included - because we were afraid to stand up and do the right thing. Please find the courage within yourself to come forward and help bring this man to justice. If you were our shipmate, do it for us. If you were a victim of his, do it for yourself. Thank you kindly Shaun M. Hogan

Her name was Valdivia

Submitted by Anonymous on Tue, 09/08/2009 - 05:38.

That LPO's name was Valdivia aka "Val" and anybody who knew her and or worked with her can vouche for her as a person. We all appreciated her as a person. However when it came to her position and the already tarnished perception , well she took the fall for a man who should of recieved his just dues long before now rather than years after the fact. Valdivia's memory can not be forgotten nor can this horrible event. MA2 Davie

MA1 Valdivia

Submitted by Anonymous on Wed, 09/09/2009 - 10:20.

FINALLY! Someone is actually focusing on the real point here - the fact that a fine sailor took her own life because of this!

Rocha and Hogan are THE LIARS

Submitted by Anonymous on Sun, 09/06/2009 - 08:22.

You two cowards KNOW the truth but you are on here trying to make yourselves feel better because of your own issues and inadequacies. You are truly pathetic and a disgrace to the military and to anyone who has actually served in combat (not a vacation in Bahrain) and actually suffers from PTSD. Miss Krantz you have a lot to learn about being a professional journalist and researching the facts for an article.

location

Submitted by Anonymous on Wed, 09/23/2009 - 13:38.

where is toussaint living today?

Rebuttal To Anonymous Above From Shaun M. Hogan

Submitted by Anonymous on Fri, 09/04/2009 - 15:32.

UCMJ

Submitted by Anonymous on Wed, 09/09/2009 - 18:48.

If you really are Shaun Hogan...you probably want to watch what you say - research UCMJ article 19, article 134. and really with the military - it's easy for them to come up with a violation off the cuff. While you may be protected under the Whistle blower Act, just be careful. This is catching a lot of attention - specifically in the middle east.

Get for real

Submitted by Anonymous on Fri, 09/04/2009 - 07:41.

I worked on this case and can tell you that these two "Former," Sailors are not telling the truth. SeniorChief Toussaint (who is deployed to an undisclosed area in Afghanistan) was never formerly charged, punished, or found guilty of these lies and was highly screened to fill the position he is in now. So, you have a SeniorChief that is deployed, away from his family (a wife and three children) defending our country and you have the nerve to lie about him. You have decided to report lies from two poor performing Sailors, who are no longer serving our country because they are cowards. The documents that you posted of the investigation were reported as "Crap" by upper level officers and disregarded. Report the truth, and quit listening to the lies of a bunch of people who couldn't do their job.

Some appears to be covering their own behind....

Submitted by Anonymous on Sun, 09/06/2009 - 19:50.

If you worked on the case, then make your response public and stop hiding behind the safety of anonymity where you can claim to have special knowledge about the incident, accuse Youth Radio of "reporting lies," and remain beyond reproach yourself. What isn't the "truth" about the Finding of Facts? Do you have evidence that the Finding was falsified? If not, then the reporter who worked on this story is simply reporting what was found from the Navy's own records. What evidence and proof do you have that the sailors are "poorly performing" or, more to the point, "lying?" The story you read and are trying to discredit was well researched and reported. If you don't like what they found, that's one thing. But where is the evidence that the story is about a "bunch of people who couldn't do their job." It sounds to me like you're one of the people involved in these kinds of incidents, defending your own actions or inactions. On one hand, I'm glad that you wrote. It gives us all a very direct idea of what a real coward sounds like.

Covering what

Submitted by Anonymous on Thu, 09/10/2009 - 09:10.

Remember, these were all reports. I can file a report to the navy because i felt that your comment offended me. The navy is going to keep that file just to show that its in there even though I could have just lied and really meant that I didn't like you. So a few years later, a little journalist can file to get these reports and think, I am going to get a pulitzer prize because this "report" is so true. let me contact those boys who submitted A REPORT. So you really can't say that the guy you said has no proof because apparently, the Navy found no proof on these accusations. Case closed. Senior wins.

Reply to Anonymous From Shaun M. Hogan

Submitted by Anonymous on Sun, 09/06/2009 - 05:39.

Dear Anonymous, I am willing to bet your real name is either Michael Toussaint (writing from your "austere" location) or LNC Stephens, Michael Toussaint's good buddy who spent the Fall of 2007 harassing me and my fellow victims. I have no reason to lie and nothing to gain. The Navy is covering for several dirty military police officers - namely MACS Michael Toussaint and MA1 Timothy Shaw among others. You are correct in your statement that they were never formally charged, punished, or found guilty hence the term "cover up". It is in fact sad for Toussaint's his wife and children as I personally witnessed this man's disrespect for his family - hosting parties with prostitutes at his Bahrain quarters, frequenting the prostitute-stocked Al Bussan Hotel (which was termed "Chief's Place" by members of the unit), and listening to stories about how the prostitutes nicknamed him "Mr. Quickly Man". I know this because the mama san for the Al Bussan sex workers resided with Toussaints first LPO MA1 John Harris in his quarters (quid pro quo I suppose). On two occasions MA1 Harris invited me to a Thai BBQ dinner at his residence where upon each occasion his "house guest" shared with me the working girls' nickname for their frequent client. She wanted to know how I knew Mr. Quickly Man and I told her he was my boss. As for my performance, it was impeccable and I will gladly share my evaluations with Youth Radio if so requested. As a Third Class Petty Officer, I was recommended for Officer Candidate School and Instructor duty by then MAC Toussaint. As a Second Class Petty Officer, I certified and handled both a bomb and narcotics dog at the same time, trained them both how to track on my personal time though not a required skill, administrated the K9 division at NAS Brunswick for 4 months until my Chief returned from convalescence during which time I personally oversaw the facilities aesthetic, safety, and welfare upgrade, and was recommended for a posting as a Kennel Master as well as a Leading Petty Officer for a Security Department aboard an aircraft carrier. Poor performing sailors do not get such recommendations sir. Allow me to share some specific remarks... MAC Payden: "Onboard a short time, MASN Hogan is quickly adapting to his new duties and has excelled in every facet of his AT/FP duties. Identified as the number 1 Patrolman within section [that means I beat out all of the 3rd, 2nd, and 1st class petty officers fyi].... MASN Hogan sets a standard all young Sailors should emulate.... He is highly recommended for advancement." MAC Toussaint: "A determined and dedicated Master-At-Arms who approaches every task meticulously.... MA3 Hogan is highly recommended for advancement." LT Trent: "Petty Officer Hogan is meticulous and handles all assigned tasks with a high degree of energy and professionalism. He is an excellent candidate for Officer Programs.... Petty Officer Hogan is a valuable asset to the Naval Security Force team and is recommended for advancement to First Class Petty Officer." MACS Harris: "Performing at a level beyond his paygrade and time in service. He has proven to have the ability to lead and perform head and shoulders above his peers.... He is the epitome of military bearing, always standing behind his shipmates and standing up for what he believes in. The true meaning of Honor, Courage and Commitment." In addition to earning numerous awards and commendations during my active duty service, I also worked toward and ultimately completed a Masters Degree despite spending well over 3 years of that time in the Middle East. You state in your post: "You have decided to report lies from two poor performing Sailors, who are no longer serving our country because they are cowards. The documents that you posted of the investigation were reported as "Crap" by upper level officers and disregarded." Might I point out sir that the documents were collected, analyzed, and ultimately submitted by investigator Brooks Braden, Captain, USMC. Perhaps you, Mr. Anonymous, in your hasty rush to defend your dear friend Michael Toussaint overlooked the fact that Captain Braden holds two law degrees and is a member of the California State Bar. Do you mean to say that the investigator is a poor performer as well? - that his conclusions and opinions as to the validity of the victims' collective statements are "crap"? Considering Vice Admiral Conway issued a Navy-wide email on 03JAN08 entitled "Hazing" and which states in the first paragraph... "The Investigating Officer concluded that unit-sponsored hazing occurred within this unit from 2004-2006 and that these activities were encouraged, and in some cases instigated, by the senior enlisted leadership of the MWD Division." Hmm, I wonder whoever could he be alluding to??? Allow me to share a passage from Captain Braden's report in his own words which I am most certain you read considering you "worked on this case"... From Captain Braden's Official Report, 1st Paragraph, Enc. 5 "During the course of the Command Investigation into alleged misconduct at the Military Working Dog Division at NSA Bahrain, numerous members of the Division made verbal statements to the Investigation Officer. However, many of these sailors were unwilling to provide written statements because of fear of retribution..." I must point out sir that "numerous members" sounds like a good deal more than "lies from two poor performing Sailors, who are no longer serving our country because they are cowards." As a matter of fact, most of these "numerous members" continue to serve our wonderful country in spite of the abuse suffered at the hands of Michael Toussaint, Timothy Shaw, etc. Mr. Rocha, a former US Naval Academy Cadet (though you claim he was a poor performer) had the courage to stand up for himself and resign his commission (though you claim he was a coward). Though in all matters regarding this issue I speak entirely within my 1st Amendment right to the freedom of speech and in no capacity as a member of the armed forces, I continue to serve the country I love as a US Navy Reservist and I too have courage - the courage to stand up and do the honorable thing and the commitment to stick with it. Though you claim I too was a poor performer, I somehow managed to obtain a graduate degree and make First Class Petty Officer in a mere 5 1/2 years. As for the other victims who remain on active duty, they continue to fear for the well-being of their careers should they speak publicly. I entirely understand their reluctance as I too once stood in fear of Michael Toussaint. However, I fear him no longer. I fear more not being able to look myself in the mirror for not standing up and exposing him for the crimes he has in my opinion seemingly gotten away with committing. Interestingly enough, the upper level officers who you claim disregarded the witness statements of not 2 but "numerous" victims never bothered to contact ANY of us for an interview or our testimony. These "upper level officers" you speak of are most likely members of the good 'ole boy network who so "highly screened him [Toussaint] to fill the position he is in now." And people wonder why so many "numerous" individuals were afraid of Michael Toussaint. Look at his reach - the man walks on water. Quite frankly, your weak defense of a poor excuse for a military police officer is crap. Michael Toussaint, Timothy Shaw, and the rest of the gang of miscreants from that K9 unit should have been making big rocks into little rocks at Fort Leavenworth years ago. If you wish to give your comments the slightest indication of credibility, you can begin by coming out from the shadows of the Anonymous label and state your name. Respectfully submitted, Shaun M. Hogan

Hogan, just wondering

Submitted by Anonymous on Mon, 09/14/2009 - 08:08.

Hogan, just wondering outstanding sailor....did you every find that explosive you lost, or maybe the drug aid....now those are actions of an outstanding sailor....outstanding.

Dear "just wondering"

Submitted by Anonymous on Wed, 10/07/2009 - 13:03.

Since you Sir/Ma'am/Completely Clueless Idiot want to discuss/"wonder" about "lost explosives"........Let me tell you about three Sailors and their "outstanding" leadership/experience with the LOSS of an ACTUAL EXPLOSIVE AID in Bahrain: MA1 Washington and a fellow MA1 and MA3 were completely negligent in Bahrain concerning EXPLOSIVES. These three lazy POS lost over 1 POUND of C-4 while conducting bare minimum training to stay certified ON PAPER. The final day of the month Two MA1's (Washington being one of them) realized they needed more numbers to avoid de-certification. They ordered an MA3 handler to stay beyond his normal shift because he was already armed and the two MA1's were too lazy to ARM UP for the training and their shift. This MA3 was ordered to stay as the armed guard so the two MA1's could conduct training trials with EXPLOSIVES. The MA1's decided to conduct training on vehicles in the ONLY POV parking lot on the base because it was close to the golan and the training could be completed quickly. None of the handlers displayed signs so the owners of the vehicles knew to KEEP OUT OF THE TRAINING AREA and NOT drive away with LIVE EXPLOSIVES nor did they have enough personell to conduct a training evolution let alone actual TRIALS! Alas, an unaware owner of a vehicle drove off the base with more than a pound of C-4. When the 3 "outstanding" handlers realized their C-4 was missing it was too late. The vehicle and it's owner were LONG gone and at their off base residence. These two "MA1's" claimed they were NEVER trained that Explosives signs were a MUST not an option. All three personell got away with losing C-4! The Commanding Officer dropped everything at Mast, due to this "technicality". As MA1 doghandlers you KNOW you MUST display signs so others KNOW you are training with EXPLOSIVES and do not DRIVE AWAY WITH LIVE EXPLOSIVES!!!! E-3's coming out of Dog school even KNOW that! So what happened to the 3 "outstanding sailors" RESPONSIBLE? The one MA1 transferred shortly after the Mast to Lackland Airforce Base DTS command. DTS trains all Military Working dogs (Explosive, Narcotic, Patrol) going to the Fleet. A place he would have to be ACCOUNTABLE for Explosive and Narcotics. The Airforce handler, YOU meant to speak of, must have learned from this MA1 about "AID Accountability". MA1 Washington was placed on Training Team, after his MAST, as an MA1 and WITH all of his Explosive credentials! He was granted the ability to "play"and "train" juniors "as an expert" with more Explosives in Bahrain With Toussaint's FULL SUPPORT! He also left Bahrain with an EP (Early Promote) evaluation FROM MICHAEL TOUSSAINT. He then reported to a kennel in New Jersey. At this Kennel he beat a junior handler AT WORK. Although MA1 Washington did go to Mast AGAIN for assault he remained the acting Kennel Master and is still an MA1, a Doghandler, AND a Kennel Master to this day! The MA3 went to Georgia where he thought he could get away with snorting COCAINE not once but TWICE because "that was less severe than losing C-4" . He was sadly mistaken and processed out of the Navy with an Other Than Honerable Discharge THAT HE FULLY DESERVED! However, his C-4 losing MA1 buddies still serve in the Navy. As for Hogan: He did NOT lose an explosive aid. He turned over a narcotic aid to an Airforce dog handler for training and THAT "outstanding" AIRMAN lost it. The only "explosive situation" I remember Hogan having was when he ran over an EMPTY Ammo Can by accident. The Ammo Can was used to transport TNT, by hand, to a training site oddly close to the golan area. The MA1 in charge of the entire evolution (MA1 Miller .......top notch Toussaint Boy) left the ammo can behind the rear tire of a government K-9 vehicle after planting the training problem. This was so the Ammo Can did not become too hot for the return transportation. The can was thankfully EMPTY beings the can was NOT made known to anyone nor visible, particularily to MA2 Hogan (who was ordered to drive the vehicle). But guess who Toussaint held responsible, openly ridiculed, demeaned and verbally badgered in various locations of the base for the incident..........NOT MA1 Miller the 8+ yrs MA E-6 Sailor up for Chief/ 4+ yr doghandler in charge of the evolution. No, the almost 2yr frocked E-5 Sailor with less than 1yr as a dog handler MA2 Hogan was to blame according to Toussaint. I asked a question, in Toussaint's presence, concerning the incident and was yelled at for inquiring about facts and what actually happened. I was yelled at by Toussaint himself. As a handler in that kennel at that time........I can tell you standing against anything said or done by Toussaint was not just carreer suicide in the Navy, it was that and so much more. Now THOSE are all OUTSTANING Sailors, from E-4 to O-6. I am so happy they, with the exception of one, are leading todays Navy! Bravo Gentlemen. Bravo!

Response to "just wondering"

Submitted by Anonymous on Tue, 10/06/2009 - 19:41.

Sir (whoever you may be), Considering you don't have the courage to stand behind your comment by signing your name, I would imagine anyone reading your above comment gives it about as much credence as I do - none. If you are going to make allegations against people such as I have, the honorable thing to do is identify yourself. Just the same, I believe in proactively defending myself against claims of this sort so here is the skinny: I personally have never lost, misplaced, or otherwise improperly stowed an explosive training aid nor has an explosive training aid for which I was the administrative custodian ever been lost. I have also never personally lost, misplaced, or otherwise improperly stowed a narcotics training aid. I was however held accountable as the administrative custodian for an MDMA narcotics training aid when the Air Force handler in whose custody I placed the aid lost it after leaving it unattended for 30 minutes. This individual had been trained on the proper safekeeping of the aids and the MDMA had been correctly signed out into his custody. Nevertheless, he lost it. As the individual ultimately responsible for the custody of that aid, I was in fact reprimanded as well I should have been. Though the aid was in no way lost as a result of my personal negligence, I informed the individual investigating the incident that as the Airman's immediate supervisor, I ultimately bared the responsibility for the lost aid. That sir is how a responsible sailor takes responsibility - not only for his or her own actions but also for the actions of those who work under their authority. When we or our subordinates make mistakes, their is honor in having the courage to "man up" and take your licks. Though I have zero faith in this ever occurring, the responsible - honorable - thing for Toussaint and company to do would be to man up, for once lead by example, and admit their abuses. Any sailor who truly believes in our core values of Honor, Courage, and Commitment would do exactly that. Respectfully submitted, Shaun M. Hogan

SeniorChief Toussaint IS A Coward

Submitted by Anonymous on Sat, 09/05/2009 - 21:04.

Give us a break! Men like Toussaint (I don't care if he is married or how many kids he has) should not be in the position he is in. Anyone who hates and does the documented things he has done deserves no respect from his peers. Shame on him and those Anonymous cowards who defend him. No one has lied about him. --- Mathew Johnson NY State

See what you see, or only what you want to see?

Submitted by Anonymous on Sat, 09/05/2009 - 15:54.

What was it-- "boys will be boys", or "they were cowards", or CYA? I don't believe your account. All these people were away from home from people they cared about. Thank you for your service, but these incidents only make everybody look bad, so you had better make sure that you're doing more than rallying the wagons.

They are for real

Submitted by Anonymous on Sat, 09/05/2009 - 05:55.

If you are like the other investigators, which I'm sure you are, you call people into the investigation and tell them what you want to hear or you send email with questions and how to reply. I have a copy of a Navy investigation that is 99% bull and I can prove it. You seem to be the COWARD here because your name is not on the post, you will have mine soon enough. The truth is being reported and I'm sure you will be one of them under investigation in the near future.

Open Letter to They are for real

Submitted by Anonymous on Mon, 09/14/2009 - 21:52.

Sir/Ma'am, Thank you kindly for your remarks. I would like to respectfully request that if you know Toussaint or have any information that can help bring him to justice and/or expose him for his criminal actions, please contact Youth Radio. The more of us who come forward, the more credibility it will give our claims against him. On behalf of all of us who are speaking out, thank you for supporting and believing our story. Very respectfully, Shaun M. Hogan

Reply from Shaun Hogan

Submitted by Anonymous on Fri, 09/04/2009 - 15:28.