The Pentagon has confirmed that the execution of Nidal Hasan will be broadcast live. The former U.S. Army major is scheduled to be executed by firing squad on December 3rd at Fort Hood, Texas. This execution, if carried out, will mark the first of an American service member since 1961. It will also be the first military firing squad execution since 1945. The decision to allow a live broadcast is unprecedented and has sparked debate regarding its appropriateness. Officials have stated the broadcast aims for transparency and to acknowledge the gravity of the crime. Nidal Hasan was convicted of killing 13 people and wounding more than 30 others in a 2009 shooting at Fort Hood.