Army Sgt. Bergdahl scheduled to appear at military hearing

HOUSTON – Army Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl is scheduled to appear today at a military preliminary hearing that could provide the first revealing glimpse into his capture six years ago by Afghan Taliban forces and his return to the United States in a controversial prisoner swap that linked his fate with President Barack Obama’s legacy.

Bergdahl, 29, of Hailey, Idaho, was charged with desertion and “misbehavior before the enemy” after disappearing from his post in eastern Afghanistan. If Bergdahl’s case goes to court-martial and he is convicted of the more serious misbehavior charge, he faces a potential life sentence.

At today’s Article 32 hearing at Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston, an Army lieutenant colonel who is also a judge advocate corps lawyer will hear from attorneys for both sides before deciding whether Bergdahl will face a court-martial.

Bergdahl vanished June 30, 2009, allegedly walking away from his unit after expressing misgivings about the military’s role in Afghanistan. He was then captured by the Taliban and held for nearly five years by members of the militant Haqqani network based in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Last year, he was freed after Obama agreed to release five Taliban prisoners held at Guantanamo Bay.

This week’s hearing could take days, possibly continuing this weekend, as both sides have the opportunity to present evidence and call witnesses.