On December 3, 2026, the U.S. government plans to execute Nidal Hasan at Fort Hood. This execution will mark the conclusion of a long legal process following one of the darkest events in Army history. Hasan, a former Army psychiatrist, killed 13 people and injured 32 others at Fort Hood 17 years ago. Now, after extensive appeals, the Army prepares for his execution by firing squad, which will be live-streamed for the public.
This decision has stirred debates about the ethics and implications of public executions. Alonzo Lunsford, a former staff sergeant who survived the shooting, plans to attend the execution. Despite advocating for Hasan’s execution, Lunsford has forgiven him due to his faith. However, he expresses concern over turning the execution into a spectacle, stating, “It’s not a spectacle. There’s nothing glorified in the smell of human flesh, blood, and gunpowder.” Lunsford believes the execution should not be trivialized or treated as entertainment.
Lunsford recounts the traumatic events at Fort Hood, where Hasan shot him multiple times. He has since dedicated himself to helping others in similar situations through mentorship and focusing on mental health. He advises adults to decide for themselves whether to watch the live stream but strongly opposes children viewing it. “Don’t do that because when you do that, you’re dishonoring those who made the supreme sacrifice,” he says.
War Secretary Pete Hegseth supports the decision to publicize the execution, arguing it’s crucial for Americans to understand the consequences of Hasan’s crimes. Vice President JD Vance has expressed skepticism about whether the Pentagon will proceed with the live stream, indicating he has no intention of viewing it himself.
The proposal for the first U.S. Army firing squad execution in 86 years has faced criticism. Republican figures like Rep. Austin Scott and Sen. Thom Tillis have voiced opposition to the live streaming, likening it to practices in oppressive regimes. The Catholic bishops have also condemned the execution and its public broadcast, warning it undermines the nation’s moral fabric.
Security concerns arise as well. Hasan, paralyzed after the 2009 attack, had previously expressed a desire to become a martyr. Experts warn that footage of his death could be used in terrorist propaganda. Matthew Levitt, a former counterterrorism official, cautions against providing material that could be exploited by extremist groups.
For Lunsford, the execution retains personal significance. During Hasan’s 2013 court-martial, they briefly locked eyes. Lunsford wishes to confront Hasan one last time, hoping he will apologize and repent. “I want to look at him in his eyes. My message to him: Dude, you failed,” Lunsford states, expressing a desire for Hasan to be accountable for his actions.
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