Cornell, 28, will have a sentencing hearing at 2 p.m., today, at Fort Stewart where he is expected to enter a court-martial plea.
In February, Cornell was charged with violating the UCMJ, Article 85, for deserting his military duties at a time of war on Jan. 22, 2005, and not returning to his unit until Feb. 4, 2009
Cornell, a Mountain Home, Ark. native, turned himself into Fort Stewart officials after having fled to Canada to avoid what he said was an illegal war.
Cornell's lawyer James Branum said via e-mail this morning that Cornell was in "OK spirits" and "mostly eager to get this over with, but is certainly nervous about going to jail."
Branum said he will enter a guilty plea on Cornell's behalf and will argue for what Cornell's sentencing should be.
Cornell was stationed at Fort Stewart at the time of his desertion. He was a soldier with the 1st Battalion, 39th Artillery Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, and 3rd Infantry Division.
The Courier will have more information as it becomes available.