War Hero Exonerated for Defending Child from Sex Predator

A U.S sergeant who faced expulsion from the army for defending a child is now recognized as a hero. 

Sgt. 1st Class (SFC) Charles Martland is a decorated Green Beret who was nearly kicked out of the Army for defending an Afghan child from a sexual predator.

The American Center for Law and Justice (ACLJ) advocated on his behalf, arguing the U.S. military has a duty to stop child sexual abuse overseas.

The ACLJ spearheaded a letter-writing campaign and petition to have Martland exonerated. More than 65,000 Americans sent letters to the U.S. Secretary of Defense John Kerry, and 350,000 Americans signed the petition calling for Martland to be reinstated. 

After the onslaught of public outcry, Martland was reinstated and deemed a war hero.

The ACLJ recognizes Martland's exoneration as a victory for Martland and the American people. 

"The decision by the Army to retain this hero is long overdue and represents a significant victory for SFC Martland," said Jay Sekulow, chief counsel of the ACLJ. "Justice has been served."

"The U.S. military has a moral obligation to stop child sexual abuse and exonerate SFC Martland for defending a child from rape," he concluded.