Quote:
Originally posted by lendaddy
When you say Rumsfeld threw it out are you saying that Rumsfeld (and his Generals) threw it out? I have heard Rumsfeld and Bush say repeatedly that the Generals are getting the troop levels they want, are they lying, will we find out when these generals retire that they wanted more? Or are the Generals part of Rumsfelds league of morons?
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Lendaddy,
Great questions. The field generals are now getting increased troop levels. Sniper also brought up SECDEFs "micromanaging" the war. If you recall awhile ago, 12 months, 18? I am not sure, but there was a big blow up generating form the pentagon that we needed an additional 30,000 troops right after SECDEF cut levels? Well those troops were provided and in my uninformed ignorance, I think that it may be more now but still not enough as others have stated. Coincidentally, there were major changes in at the Pentagon including the early retirement of the SECNAV, Admiral Clark and others. Word is that the flags and general officers were working on the SECDEF about how to execute the OPPLANS that others have alluded and the SECDEF did not like that. SECDEF is a smart guy (sorry sniper, I don't think he is a moron) but he can be to arrogant and strong headed. Although he has exhibited some of the traits that McNamarra had, Rumsfield does listen, but it takes time and many can get hurt in the interlude, i.e. Admiral Clark and others. This time to convince him allowed for the degradation of the situation, or in other words we didn't have time. UNLIKE McNamara, Rumsfield will change his mind, but it was too late. The nature of the man and the dynamics of the combat did not lend themselves to anything other that what has happened now, his resignation. He did not trust his generals and admirals and this is a fatal character flaw in the given situation.
I do not blame the president for the timing. The president was in an untenable political situation, the good ole damn*d if you do d$$med if you don't. President lost that one, he misjudged the American people and the results at the ballot box speak for themselves.