Ouch!

The military Stars and Stripes newspaper often features some from letters to the editor. In the 05/03/07 European and Mideast editions, a civilian contractor currently serving in Iraq, Landon Valentine, writes about Outspoken retired generals:

What I am referring to is the recent spate of retired general officers who suddenly have the candor and courage to step up to the plate and say what they really feel.

The trend seems to have begun, when retired Maj. Gen. Paul Eaton and six comrades began to beat their drum about former Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld. The war was being ran incorrectly, the secretary wouldn’t listen to his officers, and the list went on.

Where were Eaton and company with all their courage and candor when they were still actively serving? ...

They all had their eyes on the next star — for their epaulets — and were content to let things go, as long as things went favorably for them.

And if I am incorrect, then what could’ve been the motive for their silence, knowing soldiers were dying unnecessarily? Knowing that there was a problem with the way the war was being ran, and soldiers were paying in blood, they kept their mouths shut to protect their careers.

I think the point is clear. They sent their men knowingly into harm’s way, and only found courage, when they knew they were safe from retribution. (my emphasis)

Like I said, ouch!

Tags: iraq war

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