Memoir Raises Red Flags
Sheehy’s autobiography, Mudslingers: A True Story of Aerial Firefighting, was reportedly published without clearance from the Pentagon, a requirement for all former military personnel.
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According to a report by The Guardian, Sheehy failed to submit the required DD 1910 form before publishing his book, sparking questions about whether any sensitive information was disclosed.
What Is the DD 1910 Form?
The DD 1910 form is a Pentagon requirement that ensures military memoirs do not contain classified information or breach operational security. Failing to submit this form means Sheehy bypassed a vital review process.
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The Department of Defense confirmed that no records of communication or approval were found for Sheehy’s memoir.
An Inconsistent Military Record
Beyond the unapproved memoir, Sheehy’s accounts of his military service have raised eyebrows.
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Sheehy claims he left the Navy SEALs due to injury and frustration with military policies, but earlier statements suggest he was discharged for wounds sustained on duty.
The Controversy Surrounding His Injury
Sheehy has also faced questions about how and when he was shot in the arm during his time in the military.
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While campaigning, Sheehy has emphasized this injury, yet records from a 2015 incident show he was cited for illegally discharging a firearm in a national park—a detail that contradicts parts of his story.
How Mudslingers Fits Into the Puzzle
While Mudslingers covers much of Sheehy’s post-military career as an aerial firefighter, only 25 of its 325 pages focus on his time as a Navy SEAL.
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Despite this, the lack of Pentagon clearance has now added to the growing list of questions about Sheehy’s military service and how much of it is accurately portrayed.
Legal Precedents and Military Memoirs
Sheehy isn’t the first figure to face legal trouble over an unapproved military memoir. John Bolton and Mark Esper, both former Trump officials, encountered lawsuits and Pentagon pushback regarding their books.
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While Sheehy’s Mudslingers hasn’t triggered legal action yet, similar cases have set a concerning precedent coming from the Republican Presidential candidate.
The Role of the Defense Office of Prepublication Review
The Defense Office of Prepublication and Security Review (DOPSR), which reviews memoirs, exists to ensure sensitive military information isn’t disclosed to the public.
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In Sheehy’s case, DOPSR confirmed they had “no record” of a review or approval for his book, heightening concerns about Sheehy’s adherence to Pentagon rules.
Sheehy’s Response to the Allegations
So far, Sheehy has remained quiet on the issue, with his campaign dismissing questions about the lack of Pentagon clearance as politically motivated.
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A spokesperson for Sheehy did not respond to requests for comment following the Guardian’s report, leaving voters in Montana wondering if more details will emerge.
How This Could Impact the Senate Race
Montana’s 2024 Senate race is crucial as Republicans aim to take back control of the Senate.
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Polling indicates a tight race between Sheehy and Sen. Tester, but controversies surrounding Sheehy’s military record and memoir could sway voters in Tester’s favor. As of late August, Sheehy leads Tester by 6 points in the polls.
Trump’s Endorsement and Its Influence
Tim Sheehy’s endorsement from Donald Trump has boosted his campaign in a state that leans heavily Republican.
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Trump called Sheehy an “America First patriot,” solidifying his support among conservative voters. However, ongoing controversies might raise concerns even among those loyal to Trump’s base.
What’s Next for Sheehy’s Campaign?
With questions surrounding his military service and memoir piling up, Tim Sheehy’s campaign faces an uncertain future.
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Whether or not his controversies will affect the final vote in Montana remains to be seen, but as the race heats up, the pressure is on for Sheehy to address the inconsistencies head-on.
