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The central figure is General Koster himself, commander of the division in March of 1968. Regulations stipulate that a possible war crime be reported immediately up the chain of command. In this instance, says the Defense Department, citing the Peers report, there were division-level "failures to render required reports, conduct adequate investigations and otherwise discharge duties" appropriate to the situation. Such field investigations as there were resulted in no disciplinary action. Word of My Lai simply never got past Americal headquarters in Chu Lai.
Firm Jaw. In June of 1968, Koster became head of the Military Academy. One gray day last week he stood on the stone balcony in the academy mess hall. He bore himself impeccably—back straight, jaw firm, every graying hair in place. Below him waited the 3,700-man Corps of Cadets, including his son, Samuel W. Koster Jr. General Koster told them that "action has been initiated against me" arising from his Viet Nam tour and that he was resigning as superintendent "to separate the academy and you of the corps from the continuing flow" of adverse publicity.
A solid majority of cadets was behind Koster all the way. "He can't win, no matter what," said Senior Tom O'Meara. "His career simply wouldn't have the same potential." Said Bob Wagner, another first classman: "He's supposed to be innocent until proven guilty, but he's being punished regardless of the outcome."
Meanwhile, the judicial proceedings are grinding on. Medina and Willingham will report to Fort McPherson, Ga. All of the others accused have been ordered to Fort Meade, Md., where First Army Commander Lieut. General Jonathan Seaman will direct formal investigations that may or may not lead to courts-martial.