As one of his final acts, Donald Trump has given Randall “Duke” Cunningham a conditional pardon. The pardon reads as follows: Randall “Duke” Cunningham – President Trump granted a conditional pardon to Randall “Duke” Cunningham who was released from prison in 2013. Former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich strongly supports this pardon. Mr. Cunningham, a former California Congressman, was sentenced to over 8 years’ imprisonment for accepting bribes while he held public office. During his time in prison, Mr. Cunningham tutored other inmates to help them achieve their GED. Mr. Cunningham is a combat veteran, an ace fighter pilot, and a member of the Military Order of Purple Hearts. Although combat-disabled, he continues to serve his community by volunteering with a local fire department and is active in Bible Study.
Duke Cunningham was a legend in the Navy fighter community during my years flying the F-14. His most famous quote was, "No points for second place." So, all of us were heartbroken when he was convicted of accepting $2.3 million worth of bribes during his time as a congressman representing a district in Southern California. He served his full sentence, but the shame of his actions will always overshadow his legacy, even with this presidential pardon.