Should we let politicians judge our war, or the generals in the field?

Question

I'm referring to the recent story about General Rick Lynch:

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20070824/ap_on_go_ca_st_pe/us_iraq

I did not and do not approve of our Idiot King's bogus "war" in Iraq, but the fact is that we *are* there (and EVERY politician who voted for it should be IMPEACHED!), and it seems to me that, even though I'd like our troops withdrawn, I only know what I read in the media.

Doesn't it seem more foolhardy to continue politicizing this, rather that let the people who actually know the "business" decide what's best for their own command?

Just wondering what others think.

Bromide: Good point. Gen. Shinseki comes to mind right away...

Answer 1

There's a balance that has to be struck. Generals should be free to decide HOW they conduct a campaign; but not whether or not it's a worthy fight, or how long it should continue. Historically, when militaries have been given that much power, they just overthrow the government and start dictatorships. I'm not suggesting that ours are anywhere near doing that, but that's the reason our constitution doesn't give them that much authority.

Answer 2

Anyone who has ever heard of the Constitution would know that the President is the Commander and Chief of the army and navy. Therefore, it [should be] his decision what to do.

The generals advise the President and other politicians what to do, and they act accordingly.

In September, you'll see this very process in action. Major generals in Iraq will give a progress report on the surge. If it's good, not even the Democrats will be able to complain.

Also, we've gotten a few previews, apparently the surge is working.

Answer 3

Politicians are going to be judging the wars until we make it so that the politicians in office cannot put pressure on the Generals to do as they say or else. Colin Powell is a good example. He resigned because he knew that Iraq was a mistake, but rather than sit there and take crap from Bush and compromise his values, he got out. Smart man who deserves our respect.

Answer 4

The problem is we should always listen to and follow the Leaders of our military forces once we are in a war. That is what has been some of the problem with this one is we have followed the politically correct route and not let our troops fully conduct the war to win and to protect themselves. But as I said that is the problem we will listen to the politicos and not fully complete our mission then leaving the country and our fight against terrorism in the worst case scenario.

Answer 5

I think the days of the military actually running the wars is long gone. The politicians will always want to stick their noses into anything and everything.

Answer 6

The job of the political leaders is to decide where the military is to be used. They should never try to direct military strategy, but may receive advice from military leaders.

The job of the military is to conduct battle; military leaders should never involve themselves with politics, even to the point of not voting.

Answer 7

Our military does not wage agression or defensive action unless specifically told to do so by civilian authorities. Their job is to manage the battlefield, but the strategic acts of entering and exiting War, is NOT the decision of the Military, though they may contribute advice to their civilian superiors.

Answer 8

Nah. I prefer the people to speak; so make sure if you are passionate about a subject, let your congressman know. The more input he has from his consitituents, the more pressure he will have to go down that path and bring it to the floor(house). Congressmen/women are the bannerwavers we elect to go to Washington. GET TO KNOW YOUR CONGRESSMAN/WOMAN--the POWER is in your hands.

Answer 9

You don't seem to get it.

When Bush doesn't like what the esteemed ''Generals in the field'' have to say, he just fires them. Of course we should lay our trust in the people actually there...but their word is hardly credible when they know the Commander in Chief will demote / fire them if they don't deliver a report that fit with the hoped expectations.

Answer 10

I think the generals should leave the politics to the politicians.