Independent panel will advise on training and practices

An independent panel of distinguished citizens will evaluate the detention operations of the Department of Defense, Secretary Donald Rumsfeld announced May 7.

The panel, which will review issues related to charges of abuse of prisoners in Iraq, will address such matters as the training of U.S. military personnel, as well as policy and procedures for the detention and interrogation of prisoners.

Those who have initially agreed to serve on the panel are former secretaries of defense James Schlesinger and Harold Brown, retired Air Force General Charles Horner, and former congressional representative from Florida Tillie Fowler.

The panel will have access to all investigative reports and other relevant information, according to the Defense Department.

The panel has been asked to submit their report to the secretary of defense within 45 days of taking up their assignment.

Following is the text of the Defense Department announcement:

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United States Department of Defense
News Release
May 7, 2004

Secretary Rumsfeld Announces DoD Detention Operations Review

Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld announced today that four distinguished citizens have agreed to review Department of Defense detention operations. They will provide independent, professional advice to the Secretary on issues related to recent allegations of mistreatment of detainees.

They will address issues such as force structure, training of regular and reserve personnel, organization, detention policy and procedures, interrogation policy and procedures, command relationships, and operational practices.

The following individuals have agreed to participate in this review: Dr. James Schlesinger, Ms. Tillie Fowler, retired General Charles Horner and Dr. Harold Brown.

"I appreciate that these distinguished, experienced people have agreed to devote their considerable talents to this important task," said Rumsfeld.

They will have access to all relevant DoD investigative reports and other information to the maximum extent possible and may also talk with individuals who may have information pertinent to their review.

"I will encourage them to meet with members of Congress to keep them apprised of their progress," said Rumsfeld. "I look forward to their suggestions and recommendations."

They will be asked to report their findings within 45 days of taking up their duties.

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(Distributed by the Bureau of International Information Programs, U.S. Department of State. Web site: http://usinfo.state.gov)