[spacecoast]

Something doesn't add up... the veteran was upset over the bumper sticker but "wasn't interested in discussing politics"? Why did he pick the fight then? Telling a complete stranger they should be shot and getting physical with them is definitely asking for a serious confrontation, no matter your stance on the left or right side of the political spectrum.

I have to say I think the charges were pretty harsh. How did the guy he attacked know he wasn't armed until he was searched? Did the police search him thoroughly? It doesn't say. How was Zimmerman supposed to know that Trayvon Martin wasn't armed? If someone picked a fight with me and I was getting beat around, I can't say I would have reacted any differently. Maybe not pinned the guy to the ground with a gun in his face, but I might have pulled it out and told him to get away from me or suffer the consequences.