Washington (CNN) President Donald Trump ignored Pentagon advice Friday and pardoned two service members, while also restoring the rank of a third after all faced war crimes allegations. ""The Department of Defense has confidence in the military justice system. The President is part of the military justice system as the Commander-in-Chief and has the authority to weigh in on matters of this nature," said Pentagon spokesman Jonathan Hoffman. Rather than try to explain a decision they cannot endorse, Pentagon officials are expected to simply refer questions to the White House. "There could be an impact on military leaders and their ability to enact measures of good order and discipline.

Source: CNN November 15, 2019 23:55 UTC