RE: BOI

[Haytham Faraj <haytham@puckettfaraj.com>]

Carlos,
I didn't include the two other counsel not out of distrust of them but the
email system.  SO feel free to discuss what I am about to say but prefer you
do it with them telephonically or through their non-military email accounts.

First, I am sorry to hear the news of your mother.  Words always seem
inadequate to express empathy.  

Sullivan is a recovering alcoholic.  He turned his life around by going
through alcohol rehabilitation.  He now views every problem through that
prism. In other words, when you have a hammer everything starts to look like
a nail.

I don't believe you have a problem nor do I believe that you need
counseling.  If I am wrong about that, it still would not matter to your
potential future service. Alcohol is encouraged, condoned and a part of life
in the Marine Corps.  I frankly don't know how much faith I can put in
Sullivan's promises.  That said, I would not ignore it.  If attending a few
meetings will allow us to argue that that he promised that they wouldn't
pursue separation, then it's a card I'd like to have.

-----Original Message-----
From: Rowe Maj Carlos O [mailto:carlos.rowe@usmc.mil] 
Sent: Friday, December 03, 2010 4:10 PM
To: Hur Capt Christian P; rowec_atl@yahoo.com
Cc: haytham@puckettfaraj.com; Grey Capt Nicholas R
Subject: RE: BOI

Capt Hur,

Appreciate the info and like you said many times in the past, the gloves are
off (no thin skin here).  With that said, why should I believe the SJA who
has been actively working this case as if he's the prosecutor(???)

And number 2, if everyone is so convinced that I'm an alcoholic, then I sure
would like that help / assistance that comes with it.

However, with that said, I have researched and found a local chapter of AA
nearby and will attend a few meetings.  These meetings consist of open and
closed sessions with no documentation of attendance.

Not looking for a debate or any other argument, but would love to see every
Officer in the Marine Corps that takes a drink on 10 Nov to attend with me
so I can have those that can relate be present during my "story".

Ok, not really, the above line was my sad attempt at humor.  Not that any of
this is funny, but I do find it amusing that everyone wants me to say I'm an
alco, I need help, to swear off drinking forever, and to paint myself in the
worst possible light that I possibly can, in hopes that those that judge me,
will see it my way.

Will keep you all posted on the meetings. Oh by the way, I took the AA quiz
designed for those that inquire and / or seeking help.  I answered the yes
to 3 out 12 questions.  The standard for recommending individuals to attend
meetings are 4 or more yes answers.  I can forward the quiz (and answers)
for inclusion in my file (another attempt at humor).

S/F

One other note:  I would be interested in hearing the complete story vice
the below bits and pieces.  I'm sure everyone has an opinion so why not hear
it all.

Last note: My mother was just diagnosed with stomach cancer (today).  She
was also diagnosed with Alzheimer last year.  No humor this time and not
looking for sympathy.  However, since I'm no longer "drinking", I decided to
blow off my steam with this email.

I truly appreciate all the support regardless of the above (and the
outcome).  While everyone may believe they have my best interests in mind, I
also believe there is always more to the story than I have been given at
times.

Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!

-----Original Message-----
From: Hur Capt Christian P 
Sent: Wednesday, December 01, 2010 18:34
To: Rowe Maj Carlos O; rowec_atl@yahoo.com
Cc: haytham@puckettfaraj.com; Grey Capt Nicholas R
Subject: BOI

Sir,

LtCol Sullivan, the SJA, told me today that a big factor in deciding to
retain or separate you will be whether or not you are drinking anymore and
if you have had alcohol treatment.  I believe that the answer should be that
you are not drinking anymore and that you have a alco problem and that you
are attending AA meetings.

Thanks.

Christian P. Hur
Captain, USMC
Senior Defense Counsel
Telephone:  (619) 524-8713
Fax:  (619) 524-6784
Address:  Defense Section, Bldg 12, 1st Floor, MCRD, San Diego, CA 92140

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