A few days ago, President Obama said that he was responsible for the Benghazi situation. It is one thing to say, “I am responsible.” It is another to spell out that responsibility, the kind of specificity that has been lacking for four years.

The president has said over and over again, “We will do a full investigation. When we discover just what happened, we will tell you.” We appreciate that. Of course, the Senate hearings do not start until November 15, nine days after the election. Not much chance that will affect the way the election goes, but would anyone expect less from Harry Reid? “Less,” not “more” is all one can expect from the charismatic senator from Nevada.

But here is what needs no investigation: What Obama did and did not do on the afternoon and evening of September 11. All he needs to do is to say what he himself did. Did he deny requests for additional security for the Benghazi compound? Did he deny requests for real time assistance when Americans were under attack? No investigation would be needed to answer those questions. So, what is it, President Obama? Or are you going to seal the records of what you yourself did?

What commander in chief has ever denied assistance to Americans under fire? Panetta’s response that they did not know the situation well enough smacks of cowardice. This is becoming one of the most shameful moments in all of American history. It does not have to be this way.

Chad Owen Brand