Convicted Marine apologizes to Iraqi civilians

CAMP PENDLETON, California (AP) — When Staff Sgt. Frank Wuterich finally spoke in court he did not address the judge but instead directed his words at the Iraqi family members who survived his squad's attacks in Haditha that left 24 unarmed civilians dead.

The 31-year-old Marine apologized for the loss of their loved ones and said he never intended to harm them or their families. He went on to tell the court that his guilty plea in no way suggests that his squad behaved badly or dishonorably.

"But even with the best intentions, sometimes combat actions can cause tragic results," Wuterich said.

The lone Marine was convicted of a single count of negligent dereliction of …