Verdict in North’s Iran-Contra Trial
The seldom mentioned fact that North’s acts, deeds and operations were covert is the crux of the entire situation. This simply means he cannot reveal all the facts--to anyone.
Covert operations are a vital part of the nation’s intelligence lifeline. Having established that fact, do you really think a mere lieutenant colonel, who in this situation, is the low man on the totem pole with many superiors, acted on his own? He reported to those superiors when he carried out orders.
Can you imagine telling a secret to Congress? Or any congressman? When you’re dealing with the national interest and security, some classified information does not belong to everyone, not even Congress.
Too bad President Reagan didn’t pardon North. There would have been an initial flap and flurry but it would have blown over and he’d still be the popular past President and the country would be better for it.
But this way, Reagan has left everyone with an unhappy legacy. Especially North, the pawn, the scapegoat, the fall guy.
MAURINE R. RUZEK
Los Angeles
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
