An Open Letter to Senator Dianne Feinstein.

Dear Senator Feinstein,

According to articles 85 and 86 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice, Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl is considered a deserter. The illegal trade of Sgt. Bergdahl for five high-level terrorists is perplexing and appalling. Thsee terrorists were captured by our military because they are a threat to Americans and to our country. By releasing them, it endangers our people abroad in particular. Why didn't the President consult with John McCain (a long-held prisoner of war and not a deserter), you and the Senate Intel Committee and/or the leaders of Congress to ask for guidance prior to committing to this terrible trade?

As for the claim by Susan Rice that Bergdahl served his country with honor and distinction, she is dead wrong. Why were we told that the trade involved a "medical emergency" when our wounded warriors injured in COMBAT were put on long waiting lists at non-functioning VA hospitals? How is it that a deserter is given immediate access to medical care?  According to reports he was a hostage of the Haggani who are interested in money, they are not the Taliban. Did this illegal trade involve giving money to these terrorists as well? Why the secrecy? Why were Bergdahl's parents invited to the White House when the parents of six brave soldiers, killed while searching for him, were not accorded the same honor?

Bregdahl must be court-martialed. We must not accept an apology for this illegal trade. All facts must be investigated because of the heightened danger to our embassies and bases around the world. Our military has fought valiently in two dreadful wars for the past 12 or 13 years. The battles are winding down and this horrific chapter is coming to a close. We must not make this deserter a rock star because he walked out on his responsibilities to his unit and his country.

Respectfully yours,

Irene DeBlasio

Studio City, California