Did the dumping of Gen. Shinseki show the way for military politicians like Petraeus?

[Bozita]

Shinseki wouldn't join in the political game. His career was ended for him.

Petraeus, on the other hand, picked up two stars in the last two years.

Just wondering.

[brentspeak]

1. I think so.

What happened to Shinseki is also similar to what happened to all the federal attorneys who refused to obey Rove's political orders. A "play or pay" system.

[tech3149]

2. You pretty much nailed it

If you don't sell the company line, we've got no use for you. The fools of the BFEE don't care what you know or what your skills are, the only thing that matters is will you support us without question. Very bad idea.

[MikeNearMcChord]

3. Political Armies are a disaster in war

best examples, the Pakistani Army who got beat by the Indians in 1971, and the Argentines who lost to Great Britain in the Falklands war. If this is the future of the US we are in trouble, Armies belong in the barracks not in the legislature.

[Liberal In Texas]

6. Politicizing the army never brings any good. Never. n/t

[HCE SuiGeneris]

4. He was only one of many real commanders that were discharged for holding morally correct positions.

[Liberal In Texas]

5. In a word. Yes. n/t