Tillman Family, Jessica Lynch Challenge Pentagon Misinformation

Testifying before the House Committee on Government Oversight and Reform, Jessica Lynch and Pat Tillman’s brother and mother criticized the Pentagon and the government, which they said manipulated the truth for the sake of political gain.

Kevin Tillman, who served with Pat in Afghanistan, had this to say about the exploitation of his brother’s death: “To our family and friends, it was a devastating loss. To the nation, it was a moment of disorientation. To the military, it was a nightmare. But to others within the government, it appears to have been an opportunity. ... A terrible tragedy that might have further undermined support for the war in Iraq was transformed into an inspirational message that served instead to support the nation’s foreign policy wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.”

Rep. Henry Waxman’s Opening Statement:

Jessica Lynch’s Opening Statement:

Kevin Tillman’s Opening Statement:

Mary Tillman on the Military Smokescreen:

Rep. Dennis Kucinich’s Questions:

Rep. Elijah Cummings’ Questions:

Click here for full video of the hearing.

Click here to read “After Pat’s Birthday,” by Kevin Tillman.