What will happen to Bergdahl?

OPINION:

Using the word “vacates” in the headline of a story and then using “ruling” in the piece itself is sort of like using a word to define itself (“Judge vacates desertion conviction of Bowe Bergdahl, former U.S. soldier captured in Afghanistan,” web, July 25).

There is much interest in the actions of Mr. Bergdahl — a self-proclaimed deserter — within both the military in general and among the families of service members killed and injured in Afghanistan. This story does not provide a layman’s explanation of what “vacated” really means for him.

Will he now go to jail, if he is not in jail currently? Or will this whole event disappear, and will he be proclaimed a model soldier?

The Washington Times’ subscribers and readers deserve to know what “vacated” means in this case.

JAMES KOUT

Bowie, Maryland