Decorated Combat Veteran Faces Persecution

Pentagon investigates Senator Mark Kelly after federal grand jury declines to indict him

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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A federal grand jury in Washington, D.C. declined to indict Senator Mark Kelly, a decorated combat veteran, for a video he co-authored with other veterans advising service members that they do not have to follow illegal orders. However, the Pentagon is now investigating Kelly for "serious allegations of misconduct" after the Department of Justice failed to secure an indictment.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing tensions between the military and political leadership, as well as concerns over the treatment of decorated veterans who speak out against perceived wrongdoing. It raises questions about the limits of free speech for active-duty and former service members.

The details

The video in question featured Kelly and other prominent veterans advising service members that they are not obligated to follow illegal orders. After the grand jury declined to indict Kelly, the Pentagon launched its own investigation into "serious allegations of misconduct" against the senator.

  • The federal grand jury declined to indict Mark Kelly in February 2026.
  • The Pentagon launched its investigation into Kelly shortly after the grand jury decision.

The players

Mark Kelly

A decorated combat veteran and U.S. Senator from Arizona.

Trump administration

The presidential administration that is reportedly behind the continued persecution of Kelly.

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What they’re saying

“At a minimum, we can speak up — a fate better than complicity via silence.”

— Bill Slomanson, Hillcrest resident (San Diego Union-Tribune)

What’s next

The Pentagon's investigation into Senator Kelly's alleged misconduct is ongoing, and it remains to be seen if any disciplinary action will be taken against the decorated combat veteran.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing tensions between the military, political leadership, and free speech, particularly when it comes to the treatment of decorated veterans who speak out against perceived wrongdoing. It raises important questions about the limits of free speech for active-duty and former service members.