A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Ledw Cohen — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 19:45:29 GMT

Fallon has resigned. Is Bush signalling a decision to take out Iran's nuclear facilities. Is Cheney carryinf that message to the Arab states in the regions? Stay tuned

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Butch,Oaktie SC — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 19:45:47 GMT

Loose lips sink ships. Too much untrues come out of Washington as always.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Roger McAlisterville, Pa — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 19:49:04 GMT

Adrm. fallon is right too not endorse going to war with Iran. that would be another stupid move on this presidents part. If any of his advisors think it would be the right thing too do! Well then they need a lesson in global war. We are already streching the military way too thin around the world. Soon we will have troops all over and not protecting our shores.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

WMEstep — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 19:49:13 GMT

There is a hugh disconnect between the Bush administration and the American people on the uses of war. Pre-emptive wars are not and have never been approved by the American public. Containment of Iran has to be tried before other means are employed.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Robert Carlson — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 19:51:47 GMT

No one has challenged the president's authority, Congress, or the Pentagon. How many more illegal mistakes will be committed by this administration before the real patriots stop it?
Sign impeachment petitions, call your representatives and scream for justice! And everyone read history, don't be a talk-show historian. The more you know, the more you will be outraged!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Mike Barrier — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 19:51:49 GMT

IT'S HARD TO REALLY KNOW THE FULL STORY IN THIS, BUT IT CERTAINLY SMELLS LIKE THERE IS A LOT BEHIND ADMIRAL FALLON'S RESIGNATION. WHEN A GOVERNMENT OPERATES IN SECRECY BEYOND WHAT IS REALISTIC IN A DEMOCRACY, SUSPICIONS ABOUND!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Gary S. Cook, Military Historian, Casa Grande, AZ — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 19:53:58 GMT

Admiral Fallon is correct. An attack on Iran would be HIGHLY inadvisable. With a military already stretched to the limits, this would push it to the breaking point. Not to mention petroleum would sky rocket to probably around 175 dollars a barrel. In the process, the U.S. economy, and that of the world, would be crippled, throwing the world into another depression. The strategic vision of this administration and its advisors has been, to put it mildly, utterly lacking. It makes you wonder for whom are they really working.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

James K Hayes — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 19:54:27 GMT

This administration has done its best to suppress dissenters either directly or through their radio and TV syncophants why should the military be exempt. The rest of the congress and public are traitorous enablers if we tell the emporer to look at his wardrobe. Now he has moved on to the military perhaps it will do for him what it did for Joe Mc'Carthy.
JKH

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

DZ — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 19:54:49 GMT

God save us if the only Pentagon voice openly and strongly opposing further foolishness in the Arabic region, specifically in Iran, has resigned...

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Yule, Milwaukee, WI — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 19:55:00 GMT

At lease he is speaking out, Secretary Gates can try to sugar coat it. Admiral Fallon is standing up to a stupid President.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Yule, Milwaukee, WI — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 19:55:01 GMT

At lease he is speaking out, Secretary Gates can try to sugar coat it. Admiral Fallon is standing up to a stupid President.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

fl — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 19:55:41 GMT

you talk you go. nice

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Caesar Reeves, Frederick, MD — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 19:56:48 GMT

It is about time that a man with some back bone stand up to the two idiots in washington- Dick Cheney and George Bush. I salute you Adm. William "Fox" Fallon.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Charles, Crestview, FL — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 19:57:14 GMT

Thank You Admiral William "Fox" Fallon for your 41 years of faithful service. The US military is a little less ready today with your absence from the helm of U.S. CENTCOM. Takr heart, Big John McCain may need you to return to active duty as VP. Hang in there Big Guy, may the wind be at your back and smooth sailing.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Brad Ferguson — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:01:01 GMT

Much ado about nothing......This is more of a Press Circus than anything else.....When I saw this on CNN the reporter wanted to know...When we were invading Iran. Idiots...........

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Michael Buie — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:01:19 GMT

A voice of common sense has been silenced by the Bush power machine. I hope they no longer hold power come next year. :~\

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Marinemomof3 Oceanside California — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:01:20 GMT

Thank Admiral Fallon for all your years of service to this great country, and Thank you for STANDING UP to
The Commander in chimp

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Mona, El Paso Texas — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:01:28 GMT

I thought this was a free country, and freedom of speech. We can choose to disagree and still preform for the best of this country.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Mona, El Paso Texas — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:01:57 GMT

I thought this was a free country, and freedom of speech. We can choose to disagree and still preform for the best of this country.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Patrice Jensen, Walnut Creek CA — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:02:06 GMT

Thank GOD for Commander Fallon. If more military people would stand up for their principles of only going to war when we are invaded, in stead of reaklessly going to war with every dictator/country we politically disagree with, we wouldn't be in this mess.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Dave, Chicopee, Ma — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:02:37 GMT

If Admiral Fallon was indeed the only person standing between the Bush administration and a war with Iran, his resignation is a tragedy.
It is encouraging to know that other senior military commanders feel as Admiral Fallon does, that a war with Iran would be a mistake.
I know there is a great deal of pressure from the Jewish lobbies, many of the right wing evangelicals and virtually all the neocons for the United States to attack Iran.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Brawlyer, Abilene, Texas — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:02:43 GMT

The fact that Fallon has resigned validates the article's implication that the United States is in fact being governed by a runaway administration, led by a crazy man who no longer listens to anyone who disagrees with him.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

American Warrior — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:04:12 GMT

Looks like all the Pro-McCain war supporters and profiteers are going to get their way.

YEAH! We get to go to war with Iran now. Hopefully we'll run that war as well as we ran the Afghanistan / Iraq war.

Heck.. why don't we bomb the whole damn region?

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Bill — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:04:12 GMT

the time for war with iran was long long ago. soon after the hostage release, very strong action was called for. however, the US has not made proper responses in many instances since Korea, the Pueblo, and many other time when strong military action was called for. in Viet Nam the war was fought with terrible restrictions, and now revisionist say the US lost the war. in fact, the military never lost a battle, but American "leaders", and the American people, lost the peace. the seeds for the downfall of the US were in being years ago, and Iran is one of many issues. it is, however, a major issue, and if don't 'step up to the plate" on this one, and these nuts get the power they seek, they will use it.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Michael Paul — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:05:12 GMT

Saw that coming a mile away. You cannot disagree with this war and survive.

The man is clearly a an unpatriotic lefty.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Craig R. Lane Phoenix, AZ — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:05:30 GMT

I hope all of them burn in hell. But first they ALL need to go to jail, be tortured, etc. Illegal war started by lies and obfuscation. The rogue pretender in chief and ALL of his lying minions will know justice one day. As will we ALL!!!!!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

oldefarte — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:06:41 GMT

AND... Adm. Fallon just happened to resign, despite his working... um, good working relationship with the Administration. We see this all the time - Military commanders expressing their expertise and getting canned for it. Clinton did it. Bush has done it. AND the result is that we've been stuck in Bosnia for 15 years and in Iraq for 5 and left our dead in worthless H*ll-holes like Haiti and Somalia to no purpose, while suck-it-up-and-salute types like Tommy Franks get the Freedom Medal for allowing Bush to launch a half-baked invasion of Iraq with no plan for follow-up and Wesley Clark gets to hobnob with the Clintons for carrying their water on Kosovo, never mind that the end result is threatening to explode the Balkans. Norman Schwarzkopf was a genuine hero because he told Bush Sr. "no go" on the First Gulf War until he had the proper personnel and equipment to do the job without undue risk to his troops. Adm. Fallon is a hero and this Administration has once again proven (as did its predecessor) why nobody who has not actually served in the U.S. Military should be allowed to be its Commander-in-Chief.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Ed Evans, La Crescent, MN — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:07:42 GMT

I agree with Admiral Fallon’s decision. Remarks can easily be misinterpreted and all administrations resent any opinions other than their own. At the very least they want control over it. If he and other senior officers objected to going to war with Iran inferred by the article, I concur with the opinion. If people don’t realize it yet, this Iraq war is pulling us down. The Iraqis can take on the heavy lifting from now on and our military needs to retrench across the board.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

JAMES K SOUTH BEND INDIANA — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:07:45 GMT

GEORGE BUSH IS WITHOUT A DOUBT, THE WORST PRESIDENT THIS COUNTRY HAS HAD. HE LIED ABOUT IRAQ, MISHANDLED KATRINA. THE MAN IS JUST PLAIN STUPID. HE NEEDS TO BE IMPEACHED BEFORE HE DOES ADDITIONAL DAMAGE TO THIS COUNTRY.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Betty Cooper, Chattanooga TN — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:08:44 GMT

I believe that getting more seriously involved in the Middle East is a bad
mistake. We are so deep already and no light at the end of the tunnel. .Regular ciitizen--no stratigic planner-- we are in deep trouble already.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Betty Cooper, Chattanooga TN — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:08:45 GMT

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Becca, Lebanon, IN — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:09:05 GMT

Why is it that Government as well as companies believe that stating what you believe in and standing up for something that should not be happening is a cause to fire that person? Is this not America where we have the right to state our own believes and standup for what is right and we believe in as citizens?

I am so sick of hearing about someone being fired or being asked to quit due to standing up for a decision and fighting back on issues that "ALL OF US" as United States Citizens believe is right! Where and when did we sell our right to voice our opinions and not be fired or ran out of office for voicing that right? I know we have sold our souls to the highest bidder when it comes to jobs, then allowed lobbiest to create what they call "RIGHT TO WORK STATES". When did we as Americans tell these fricking companies that we wanted our states as "RIGHT TO WORK STATES?" and allow them to oust us if we did not agree with or were not happy, or the company decided they no longer wanted us! These states only have to say you are gone, and you are GONE! Where and when did we give our rights away? I hope someone answers that one!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

VINCENT A. ORIOLO — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:10:10 GMT

DOES ANYBODY NOTICE A PATTERN HERE? HOW MANY MORE YOUNG MEN AND WOMEN WILL WE SACRIFICE TO THE "GOD OF WAR"?

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Terry Mahan, Graham, TX — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:10:17 GMT

He sounds like a voice of reason. For the US to continue to posture in a warlike manner is courting disaster. We cannot manage the fronts we are involved in right now. Iran surely knows how thinly stretched our military is, and does not take any threats seriously. We have guaranteed unrest in the Mideast for generations to come.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Ron Feathers, Izmir, Turkey — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:10:37 GMT

Stands to reason that it'd take a sailor to tell the CinC to "Stuff it." Seems as if it's only the GI's (and precious few of them with any horsepower, at that) with the fortitude to not go along with the idiotic policies that issue from the White House. The politicians don't seem to have the 'nads to do it.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Roger Kahane, Cottage Grove, Oregon — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:10:41 GMT

I wonder whether there remains even one single person in the entire world who still believes that the Bush administration is either competant or credible. what unforgivable and unrepairable damage, shame and disgrace the scum that has infested the White House since 2001 has brought upon our nation!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Mil1906, Gilbert, AZ — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:12:05 GMT

I thought Fallon had more sense than to be interviewed by Esquire?

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

rrr — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:13:18 GMT

Think differently than the BUSH war machine? You are out of here.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

bob dudley — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:13:19 GMT

Bush is a lame duck president. Starting a war would be irresponsible. Tough talk exists and will continue because Iran is a terrorist state. We made our mistake when we did not seal off the borders between Pakistan, Iran, and present a measure of security in Iraq;therefore the citizens of Iraq and our military suffered staggering losses that could have been avoided. But then the war was bungled wasn't it by Bremer and Rumsfeld? You wonder what Bush was thinking by his appointments of those two accidents waiting to happen. Many critics want to blame Bush and Cheney for starting the war.Even before the war and the Bush presidency,-many statements made by Clinton and others in congress including Harry Reid-referred to weapons of mass destruction, frequently. Look it up....so the tragedy etched in history will be the way the war was run.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Josh (Providence) — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:14:53 GMT

Typical "Ministry of Peace" stuff for this administration. Let's all hope time runs out on Bush/Cheney before they can produce some more "evidence" to promote another ill-fated war.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

furiousgeorge,Claremont,CA. — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:15:29 GMT

..Sounds like the administration is going to do what ever it pleases despite what their advisors tell them..why not stir up the hornet's nest then leave office and hand the troubles to someone else? i tell you what,whoever wins the upcoming election is going to inherit a huge headache...

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

John, Washington DC — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:16:18 GMT

Wow...its amazing to see how this Administration silences any opposition that opposes their radical neocon foreign policy ideology

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

GG — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:16:35 GMT

Once Iraq was declared a bebacle everyone asked "why did the generals wait to retire before speaking out?" We now know why [not that we didn't then]. This sort of puts the seal on another of Duya's lies "I listen to what my generals." Correction: he listens when they say what he wants to hear.
Another respected general bites the dust. He & Shinsecki should write a book!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

chris daly brantford ontario canada — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:16:36 GMT

cudos to an honorable man who did the right thing
its to bad we dont hear of other senior officers notsaying their peace until they have retired and are working for major defence contractors

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

chris may dublin, GA — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:17:00 GMT

12 billion per month in paying for Iraq, next Iran? We will go from recession to DEPRESSION. And for WHAT!
Not cheaper oil thats for sure. I am actuallly sure no improvement in US life at all.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Jim — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:18:45 GMT

Sounds like he made up his mind before the article was even out. I'm glad to see some realistic, common sense, evaluation of the "aftermath". Its the post game show that plays. Just study the Romans, Soviets, Ottomans or even ask the Britsh, they can tell you.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Ron Leslie, Highlands, NC — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:18:48 GMT

Perhaps "Profiles in Courage" will be updated in about 30 years. Our military men are against torture and against wars of opportunity. Our VP, a former coward with "other priorities" will live in history as an 8-year disaster.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

John Velez Peyton, Colorado — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:20:54 GMT

I beleive that Military officials are the true professionals when making decisions as it applies to conducting war with other countries such as Iran. President Bush must holster his guns and closely listen to the Military officials before making imulsive decisions that may cause devastaing and negative effects for Iran and the United States of America.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

SCG — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:31:00 GMT

This is just another examp;e of a presidence running wild. God forbid anyone else with any sense of responsibility disagree with his HIGHNESS

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Whittman Anderson — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:31:39 GMT

About time someone stood up to this war mongler. He is out of touch with the rest of the Country,and his staff. His term couldn't end fast enough!!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Steve007 — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:32:09 GMT

Of course MSNBC,the treason channel,is in the business of appealing to the left,and their coverage is heavily tinged with liberal bias. Thus they are not to be believed. If Fallon cannot do his job, which is to give private advice and then to implement US policy, he should,like McArthur, be relieved of duty. Or resign..

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Too bad this happened — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:32:58 GMT

Too bad people didn't read this story first before commenting on First Read which didn't quote your whole story.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Phil GT, Los Angeles, CA — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:33:50 GMT

Obviously this was a complicated situation made much more vunerable by the magazine article. However, it seems his resignation was the perverbial last straw as there is not much doubt that he and the Bush admin not see eye to eye on some key issues.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

STPEHEN — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:34:35 GMT

FIRE BUSH NOW

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Dave — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:34:41 GMT

Time to show Iran the US is still #1! Send in the Marines! Hoorah! Support our troops! To the politicians-war can't be won on a budget!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Walter L. Banning- Kanas City,MO. — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:34:47 GMT

Why are we being sooooooooo soft on the Arab oil terrious that are over charging the USA ? ARE WE TO EASY ON IRAN ?
What can the christians do about these higher and higher oil prices ? The Arabs turly want to hurt us.
Can we import more ethanol from Brazil to replace these Arabs ? I think that we can, this could make a difference to these Arabs. wlb

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Jerry Lorine — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:35:08 GMT

IRAN and Oil would not be the issue it is today IF the Left in Congress years ago would have voted to let us drill in ANWR and off the Gulf, where by the way China is drilling. Iran's oil weapon would have been irreverent.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Jon Gerhard, Helotes, Texas — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:42:24 GMT

Hate to see him go-but we should just nuke em and pave a parking lot-First strike right where they have tried to hide their misdeeds-If not their comming here, no doubt in my mind we will have to face them or a dirty bomb-Hope everyone is ready-

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Ron Coleman — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:42:27 GMT

It's the same old crap. You don't agree with President Bush and you're forced out of your career. I can't wait until November and I swear I'll never vote for another Republican for as long as I live.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Bob Kuntz — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:44:23 GMT

One more example of a top Commander disagreeing, Thank god, with the idiot-in-chief, and being forced to resign. Can't we impeach Cheney and Bush, in that order, and save us from ourselves? Their terms cannot end fast enough.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Donn Lee Hunt — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:44:51 GMT

Why can't our Military have a backbone if all the senior Military is against war, explain the reasons to the Commander-in-Chief that it is not right to do certain things without being forced to step down or resign?

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

EWB — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:45:26 GMT

bottom line with Americans is we can't afford to go to another war , most of us can not even afford gasoline for our cars.Americas economy is in the pits,just ask joe average trying to feed his family and keep a job untill it is sent overseas. Check out the food prices, rents, cost of a modest home, crime, education and on and on and lets not forget America is hated by more countries in the past eight years then ever before. We the people, for the people, of the people is now simply an anchronism. War brings, death, poverty, shame, destruction,hunger,hatred to mention just a few evils of war. Peace brings harmony,abundance, love, profits, ability to help nations climb out of poverty not put them further in poverty. Were becomming a nation to fear and a nation that is preached to, made to live in fear,reminded daily of our enimies and there desire to kill us.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Steve Talmadge, Oak Harbor, WA — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:46:26 GMT

When a top military officer speaks his mind to any reporter, it signals a willingness to resign if necessary over what is said that may be perceived as disagreement with the president's policies. Perhaps Adm Falon will join the cadre of retired military brass and 70 percent of U.S. citizens who openly oppose his gun boat diplomacy toward Iraq and Iran. I certainly hope so.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Kris Harm — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:46:45 GMT

It's a sad day when a leader cannot question his boss, espically when he is a subject matter expert and his boss is not.
Former 82nd Airborne Military Intelligence Soldier

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

KathleenH — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:47:27 GMT

One can only hope that Commander Fallon will have the courage to make his true feelings, about our present military situation, known now that he's resigned.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

C.J. Rhoades, Jacksonville,Texas 75766 — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:50:11 GMT

The quicker we get new leadership in Washington the better. It is apparent that not only the American people has lost faith in George W. Bush, but also many of our military leaders. We can't even finish the war we are fighting now, much less start another one.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

C.J. Rhoades, Jacksonville,Texas 75766 — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:51:15 GMT

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Lamont, Brooklyn NY — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:52:02 GMT

I, think that before the USA attacks Iran, if, we attack Iran, all the nations in that Region who are aligned with the USA against Iran should attack Iran First, with all their military Might. As a rusult the USA would only have to use the Power and Strength of our Air Force too bring down Iran, saving thousands of young American Men and Women from any kind of Harm!!!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Ken Collins/ Wagoner, Oklahoma — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:52:05 GMT

And the wall came tumbling down !!!
Pres. Bush someday will get caught upp in his web of deceit !!!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Kim Bergier — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:52:21 GMT

Kudos for CENTCOM Commander Administration William "Fox" Fallon for openly criticizing President Bush on the administration's Iran policy! Thank you for allowing discussion about plans for attacking Iran before U.S. gets itself caught up in a war with Iran, as soon as April.

Such as war would likely to become far worse than anything we have seen over the last 5 years in Iraq. For starters Iran is a proud, sovereign nation, around 3 times larger than Iraq which will fight back with a strong military. Afghanistan and Iraq were already weakened by many years of war, and U.S. sanctions on Iraq. Don't forget how many U.S. troops would be at risk in surrounding Iraq & Afghanistan. Israel would be a target as U.S. actively pays at least $4 Billion a year to help Israel's military.

I am deeply concerned that the Bush Administration may be foolish enough to instigate an "incident" (like the Gulf of Tokin in Vietnam) to "justify" an attack on Iran to "take out" nuclear power plants, during this “window of opportunity”. I believe they will try this while Bush is still “president” and to help John McCain win the election on “national security” credentials.

Who do they think they are? How can the Bush Administration plan to build a whole new nuclear weapons production complex (called “Complex Transformation”) then demand Iran not even think of building a nuclear weapon in the future to defend itself against us? Both U.S. and Iran are signatories to the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, which makes us beholden to this international law since 1970. At least Iran is abiding by this crucial international treaty by only having allowed nuclear power. Until U.S. also abides by the NPT it has NO credibility to tell any other country they cannot think about building nuclear weapons. Scott Ritter, former U.S. nuclear weapons inspector in Iraq for 9 years, has made it clear that Iran has NEVER had nuclear weapons, as it’s against the religion of Islam and Iran is a Theocracy.

We don't need to destroy all life on our beautiful planet because of an arrogant bulling attitude that the whole world has to follow our orders or else! It is time for true diplomacy with U.S. abiding by international laws and treaties.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Tom Baxter, Tallahassee, FL — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:52:43 GMT

If only the generals resigned before we went into Iraq, instead of watching Rumfeld and Bush turn Iraq into a battlefield and a 'failed state.'

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Javed helali, Pflugerville, TX — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:53:29 GMT

There will have to be a compusory DRAFt if we go to war with Iran. Sad but likely.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Chris V — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:53:44 GMT

there goes the press again..ruining the career of a fantastic military officer. way to go. maybe i should have choosen that as a career, that way i can go and ruin people's lives and make money at the same time.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Ronald wentz jr — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:53:58 GMT

I am all for war with Iran.. its to long coming and has to be dealt with at some point why not now ? we are there and strong.. just move it all over a few clicks...I am 40 and will go in a heartbeat...

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Sandra Beach — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:54:53 GMT

I think the people that have Bush in their pocket certainly have had something to do with this. Rest assured that if this man has friends and family he cares about, these are the reasons he stepped down-not because he's worried what the public thinks about Bush's agenda in other countries.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Norfolk,va — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:54:58 GMT

ADMIRAL " FOX" FALLON was a Hell of a Skipper when he Flew the A-6 Intruders back in 1984 when he was the CO. He is to be commended for stepping up to the Pentagon and our leaders. He is trying to keep us out of a quagmire that this Government wants to get into. Keep them guessing FOX

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Willie Norman Little Rock,Ar — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:55:13 GMT

I don't blame Mr.Fallon for leaving his I thank he done right thing.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Sandra Beach — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:55:27 GMT

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Ann, Easthampton, MA — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:57:09 GMT

Thank a Higher Power for officer and gentleman, Commander Admiral William "Fox" Fallon. HIs resignation sends a powerful message to all of us, but mainly the commander and chief. The U.S.A.is best served via continued open diplomatic dialogue with Iran and it's leaders re: Pres. Bush's desire for Iran to assist with oil pipeline protection using American troops. Comm. Adm. Fallon just said no with respect maintaining his dignity to invading Iran.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Ronald wentz jr leonardtown md — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:57:18 GMT

yea like i said I am all for the war with Iran.. it will happen so lets do it now wial we are ready.. and at 40 I will be the first in if you would like..I also am sure thats what this is all about he just didnt have what it takes to say yes to bush...

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Toby Hill — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:59:10 GMT

He very well should resign and be charged with treason since his comments undermine the Commander in Chief to our enemies. Every stupid a** reporter who encourages this behavior, undermining our CIC, should be handed over to their home country Al-Qaeda Land.
BTW Jim, you're a weasel!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Mike T. (Controller) — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:59:14 GMT

I first worked with Fox Fallon when he was a Lieutenant, flying with LCDR Mike Concannon in VA65 off USS Saratoga in 1975-77. He was then and still is a fantastic officer, visionary thinker and one of the most brilliant tacticians I have ever had the pleasure of service with. When I retired from the Pentagon in 2003, Fox was Vice Chief of Naval Operations and a brilliant man. The Bush establishment is loosing a highly valuable warrier, but then it seems that "W" has mismanaged and run off a lot of good people. Shameful "W", you don't even deserve those air national guard wings anymore.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Paul Richardson, Eastport, ME. — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 21:01:04 GMT

George Washington warned us - "Avoid foreign entanglements."
Are we ever in a foreign entanglement.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Sgt.Pascal,SALEM,MASS. — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 21:20:43 GMT

As most Military Members, and Veterans KNOW - We always prefer the non military action first- since
we're the ones who have the most to lose.
BUT IN OUR CIRCLE, FEAR IS NOT AN OPTION.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Juan dela Cruz, 1632 139th st., Gardena, CA — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 21:20:45 GMT

I wonder why several high ranking Politicians , by no less than the Honorable Nancy Pelosy are clamoring that the Super Delegate should decide based on the will of the popular vote. Why did these people did not say this during the Al Gore-Bush presidential election in 2000? Al Gore could have been our President instead of Bush.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

S.S. Washington DC — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 21:24:53 GMT

After all this fiasco in Iraq, all the (chicken)hawk administration should listen to the experts. Not meaning that the uniformed batch should make decision but their opinion and exppertees should weigh in in such important matters. it looks like the General could not take the incompetancy of this administration any more and resigned. I am not surprised a bit. We need bright leaders at last, not monkeys who draw this nation to the mud.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Phil Stika, Phoenix, Arizona — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 21:25:57 GMT

I am so tired about hearing the left discuss blood for oil, yet there seems to no discussion from the left about what to do about the global threat from a nuclear Iran and the loss of life that will be lost under these circumstances...

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Silverwolf — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 21:27:50 GMT

Please forgive me for being blunt and rude. I am aginst going war at Iran too.
Right now no one really know what to do about the war.
We are all riding on a mad tiger. Steping down - get kill, keep on riding - get serious injury from the rescuers who tried to help us.
Take a step back from Middle East - America's Defence might be in danger, keep on fighting - America's economy falls.
Loose lips or not, things are pretty depressing right now.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Douglas Chang — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 21:30:17 GMT

NO! we DO NOT need to be at war with Iran, and if all that's standing in the way of it right now is Adm. Fallon (and he deserves our lasting thanks for that!), the rest of us MUST move quickly to PUT OUR COLLECTIVE SELVES between the U.S. and war with Iran.

Even considering our misguided and still ongoing efforts in Iraq, I always believed that the threat of war with Iran was more a political posture, the strategic decoy of a lame duck administration hoping to deflect criticism of its already considerable foreign policy failures. MSNBC's report seems to suggest that I'm wrong - that in fact, the White House is still willing to put more Americans at risk, creating more suffering, death and rage toward Americans by starting up another unprovoked military venture guaranteed to kill thousands of civilians. This has to stop - and we have to be the ones to stop it! George W. Bush must not be allowed to leave us with another last-minute, ill-conceived war to clean up like his father did in Somalia.

I have several Iranian American friends, some of whom go back to Iran regularly. I have met several other Iranians who have told me, with relative objectivity, what they think of the situation there. As much as we may dislike the current government there, we have to understand that even now people in Iran are trying to change that government, to make it more democratic and less fundamentalist, and our meddling (let alone a war!) only makes their work harder.

We do not need to kill Iranians to keep ourselves safe! Think about how awful it felt after just one attack on September 11 - how do you think Iranians will feel if we start a war with them? If we are so confident that their government is reprehensible (and there are good reasons to feel that way), the best thing to do is leave it to collapse under its own unsustainable weight, which has already been happening for a number of years. We have to be confident enough to believe we can lead by example, not by force.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

KC, Broomfield,CO — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 21:33:22 GMT

It certainly appears as though ANY person that disagrees with anything this current administration (Bush) does or says, eventually will get thrown off the ship. This is a very scary time for the children of the future.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Steve Kleid, Port Orange, Florida — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 21:33:53 GMT

Admiral Fallon is obviously a man of principle as well as intelligence. He could do well in another job -- perhaps the Vice Presidency?

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Isabel Santamaria, El Paso, Tx. — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 21:38:56 GMT

Is Bush planning to leave an "Iran war" gift to McCain? So do I vote for the war mongerer or the multi-personality-I'll-do-anything-for-power candidate?

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

nicole washington state — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 21:39:06 GMT

I would follow Fallon any day. He's wise and his remarks are WISE regardless of the outcome of his position. He speaks the truth and I would follow a leader like that any day of the week. I applaud anyone willing to forget about the politics of scratching eachothers backs and simply giving an honest upfront opinion that the American People NEED TO HEAR.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Sherm — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 21:39:07 GMT

Wrong! Admiral Fallon should have never been "asked" to retire. Because he disagrees with policy from someone, w/o military experience, ie Bush. This unpopular war is slaying this country with a financial burden that is taking us down.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

d.previch — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 21:39:45 GMT

the president needs some people who are not "yess men". noone can be always right.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Lee Shreve., Baton Rouge, LA. — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 21:40:33 GMT

Wait... Did I get this right. In WW2 we had to shut Patton up because he was outspoken about taking the war to Russia. Now we have a general who is outspoken about Not taking it to Iran. Oh, how the times have changed. We have wimps commandering our military. Thanks for quiting you did us a favor.
FYI General: Your suppose to talk tough and let the White House do the diplomacy.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

willard eversole — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 21:41:26 GMT

america must always have a strong military force that can defeat any nation on earth,and have leaders that understand the threat when it comes.there is never a time when a leader should second guess the comander in chief.he is the one that has to make the final decison,america safety lies upon his shoulders.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

oklahoma city, oklahona — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 21:44:47 GMT

Seems awfully convenient (for this administration) that Fallon has stepped down NOW when he's not even scheduled to originally step down till April 2009.....I feel with the current administration, its a wait and see, give them time and it to shall happen.....I feel that they will push for a war/confrontation/or whatever you want to call it with Iran before George W leaves office, especially if GWB's mouth has his say ........

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Ray Scott, Mission Viejo, CA — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 21:44:55 GMT

Air strikes against Iranian nuclear facilities would probably be ineffective, unless our human intel is better than it was in Iraq.We should take no crap from Iranian gunboats in the Gulf and agents in Iraq, but have few direct military options unless we commit to a ground war to seize the southern oil rich half. That is really not an option until we refresh our armed forces from the drain of the present conflict. That won't be possible for years, so diplomacy is the realistic means. It is hard for the prideful Persians to see Israelis, Chinese, Pakistanis and Indians have nukes and be told Persians can't be trusted with them. Isolating the Persians won't bring them to where we want them. We won't break them economically, we need to persuade them that nukes doesn't do them any good. That may be a tough sell and why should they trust us?

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

gerry32..Port6 Arthur, Tx — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 21:45:14 GMT

If that so-called president want's to go to war with Iran, he should be impeached..........

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Kevin Zahn, Evansville, Indiana — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 21:45:46 GMT

As usual, any commanders who disagree with Bush are replaced, then Bush says we have to listen to the commanders. So what that means is the Commanders will say what Bush wants them to say or they will be replaced. Then when the new Commander says what Bush wants. Then Bush says listen to what the Commanders are saying. So it is a catch-22. Just like the buildup to war in Iraq, anybody who doesnt follow Bush are summarily replaced or just not listened to. Some things just never change. Impeach the bums!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

alan goldberg — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 21:45:54 GMT

i respect Fallon and our other Military Commanders, if we engage in bombing iran ,then what? gas prices becoming $7.50 a gallon? continuous suicide bombings in new regions.... we need to set a goal of leaving the Damned middleast, as far as we Americans can tell the average human there cares less of freedoms or being brought into the 21st century. let Israel do finally what they must to survive

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Darrel Purscell Banning, Calif. — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 21:47:19 GMT

SPEAK UP
Admiral Fallon would it be safe to say that we've heard enough lies from this Administration on who,where and why to go to war,Hows about we try telling the truth and see where that gets us,and if I am not totally seeing wrong are we actually seeing our top military personel"get out of dodge" if anything to save face,but I would rather believe there interests were to save lives,and all that money.I love my country but wrong is wrong military or civillian or even animals(they share this air we breath to,and feel the wraths of war).It is about living,finding those places in our hearts and in our lives,like family and friends.Somethings that this country was proud of,like inviting neighbors to a BBQ,or watching the kids playing all over the neighborhood,just something as simple as that no longer exists,the same ones you are so worried about hearing you say these things are the same ones that are killing are troops,but still run around smiling and singing at some old country party,but continue the lie to save what integrity they somehow believe they have,and just laugh it up and singing.In the meantime we are dieing over there and right here in our own country(remember Katrina).How do you win a war when there is no legitimate purpose of it,another words there is no war to win,that is called bullying because you can,and they can BECAUSE ADMIRAL WE LET THEM.Speak people,I wrote this little letter because I am the little man and I dont matter,but I wrote it and if there is something else I need to say I will write again and if some miracle I am ever asked to say something to our leaders believe me I am going to say it,we cannot let these jokers get away with destroying our credentials with the world and most of all leaving a mess like this for our children,which I have to say,dont play like they did 30 yrs ago.Our kids are destroying each other for bragging rights,sounds a little bit like the reason we entered this war if you ask me.If and when we have a president that does wrong and they do,what do we do whan we have one that has no remorse or concience....we let them move to Africa!!!!!!!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Anne Moeller — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 21:49:10 GMT

I am sad. That we are losing a voice against going to war in Iran. Who is going to stop Bush from his rush to war all over the world?? Somebody needs to speak up for this!!!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Donald M. Miller, Greensboro, NC — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 21:49:23 GMT

Once again the "Adolf Eichmann" syndrome raises its head. Why are our senior officers so afraid of speaking their minds om matters having to do with war? Here is an admiral with over 40 years in the military, apparently afraid to publically express his opposition to an insane intent by this President to getting the US involved in yet another Middle East conflict! If he, and others, believe that such an attack would be seriously wrong, they should publically say so and then resign their commissions. Unlike Eichmann, they would not be shot for so doing and all that would happen is that they would sail off into honorable (and comfortable) retirement. Although they are all valiant officers, their moral courage becomes questionable when they acquiesce and support policies with which they deeply disagree.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

John Doe, Seattle, Wash. — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 21:50:22 GMT

Gotta love the drive by media. They want us to lose this global war on terror so bad they are willing to aid and abet our enemies by telegraphing internal policy differences. It will take an American Hiroshima by the IslamoNazis before America wakes up to the threat we face.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

rob meadows moreno valley, ca — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 21:59:54 GMT

As a 26 year military veteran you take the oath to defend the Constitution not to question your orders or US policy for all those who say he's a patriot for questioning US policy do you always question your boss or company policy? There is a bigger picture here people the maniac running Iran is the same leader of the rebels who kidnapped the hostages in "79" if anyone remembers a "weak" President Carter caved to the demands of those terrorist and only when a strong decisive President was elected did he let the hostages go. People who need answers to today's questions need only look to the past!!!!!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Elli Silver, Daleville, AL — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:00:58 GMT

What happened to the First Amendment? Just because the man wears a uniform doesn't mean he can't voice his opinion even if goes against the fairy tale that this administration has been spinning for years. We can all give thanks that this administration can't hang on for another 4 years because if that were allowed, we'd all be under a dictatorship by then. Our basic rights are being eroded every day by this administration and its supporters all in the name of what they say is freedom. Sure, we need to protect ourselves from threats, but massacring the Constitution was not what a great majority of Americans had in mind.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Dorothy Correll, Long Beach, Ca. — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:01:57 GMT

Fallon is the miilitary expert. Not the President
or Vice President, as they have so badly shown us for
the last few years. Lets just pray we get thru the
next few months until we have a change in administrations. Hopefully sanity will return to the
White House.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

terry mcsweeney, sicklerville, nj — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:02:12 GMT

Lee from Baton Rouge implies the Admiral is a wimp. No, unlike our wimp president, he understands that a military action without a political solution is useful only in getting a lot of people killed and destabilizing entire regions. The real wimps are the chicken hawks like Bush and Cheney who balked at the chance to dodge bullets, but have no problem sending others to fight their illegal wars. Here's hoping they will one day face war crimes proceedings before a world court.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Dennis R. Whalen, Baton Rouge, Louisiana — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:02:36 GMT

Is there still time for the 3,980 dead to resign?

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

dennis parkerpequot lakes mn — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:02:40 GMT

A quick comment to the person from Baton Rouge .Our military is way over extended now .What war did you fight in?

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Walter Dogg — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:05:07 GMT

What kind of lies are we going to come up with to go to war with Iran? We used all the good lies as an excuse to go to war with Iraq. And we don't have Uncle Tom Colin Powell to deliver the lies effectively. What the heck, Bush can just ignore his generals and go to war - like Hitler did. That worked out well for Hitler.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

DB, Azle, Texas — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:05:11 GMT

This is unbelievable! The number one financier of terrorists and the leading cause of unrest in Iraq with the evilest leaders of their religion and their country and all you empty heads out there are looking for hole to hide in. Here is the strategy. We should have told them in 2003. If we trace one munition or one fighter come across the border - WE WILL FOLLOW IT HOME - with force. You want to take out Israel then we take out your one refinery. People of Iran. Rise up and we will be right behind you. Earth to Oblabah. You don't negotiate with terrorist you eradicate them. That's the message. Get it!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Joe, Martinsbnurg, WV — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:05:57 GMT

A stupid war caused by a stupid President for a studid cause that didn't exist. This was nothing more than an invasion by a President, both current and past (I am sure daddy Bush had his say in it), and anyone that thinks otherwise should do their homework. Bring these men home. End this madness. Admiral Fallon did well to speak honestly in this matter. No more wars please.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Kevin Corry, Bartlett, Il. — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:06:22 GMT

First Shinseki, now Fallon.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Ahmad Houston, TX — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:12:11 GMT

If we attack Iran it will be the last of very many mistakes that this goof ball administration will make, because there might not be anyone left to say that once again we had the wrong intelligence(HAH!).

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

JT — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:13:40 GMT

Fallon is a "wimp" according to some of you people? Hardly. It takes real courage to openly disagree with those in power--courage that I frankly doubt very many of us have. You say he should shut up and let the White House do the diplomacy? When was the last time the Bush administration engaged in truly meaningful diplomacy with anyone?

The Commander in Chief is not God, and as such, people (especially commanding officers in his nation's military) have the right to freely disagree with his judgment--particularly when he has already demonstrated a profound lack of it to begin with, as is the case here. Fallon is taking the fall simply because President "My Way or the Highway" Bush is incapable of taking any form of serious criticism, which he's proven time and time again.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

MSTRACH, Stow, OH — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:14:20 GMT

"Loose lips"...c'mon...this is being responsible and accountable by speaking up. Is this not why we criticize NAZI generals and followers? Is it morally correct to lead blindly into failure? This is not the first military official to disagree with the Bush policy. Stalin got rid of everyone who disagreed. Is that what we have become?
From the beginning, Secretary of State Powell advised the need for a strategy before and after an invasion. If anything, he gave in to the group think. The trail of ignored military advisors continues to grow and we pay in lives and a bankrupt economy. WHAT ARE THE GOALS? WHAT ARE THE RESULTS? Fighting guerilla warfare tactics is a loosing proposition. Check the history books.

This administration is a total disgrace to this country. The consequences of arrogant, myopic irresponsible, bungaling will be our legacy to future generations for the next 50 years at least.

When are we going to learn? Dropping bombs is not the way to win or convince over history,culture,religion and tribal ethnocentrics.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Kevin Doyle — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:15:30 GMT

Only a complete idiot would consider going to war with Iran now. The sky-rocketing oil prices would put millions in this country at the poverty level and enrich only saudi royals and oil company execs. Oh wait.....

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Cub Animmigrant, Miami — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:16:07 GMT

Basically, we started a war over 10 years ago to free one country Kuwait, and to stabilize the price of oil.

Well, right now, Oil is at $108, we're engaged in 2 wars and thinking on starting another war. Each living american is paying $1000 a ear on war costs (over $300 Billion a year total).

Considering this, the wars have been a total and complete failure. Terrorism is in the rise all over the world, the US has lost the respect that once we had, and our economy is on shambles. Do we really need a third war so we can become the evil that we're trying to fight, a nation that declares war and invades anybody else that has a different view from ours.. Don't take me wrong, I'm against terrorism and have no issues with a strong army, but, when are we going to learn that we cannot and should not force our standard of living, laws and goverment ways onto other people.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

robert — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:17:26 GMT

We sure can pick them. First trusting our country to a reformed alcoholic and now maybe a reformed drug abuser. I don't know what that says about the rest of us.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Tiger,Fl — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:17:26 GMT

I will never,never trust Iran ..as long they keep builting nuclear weapons..we must stop this evil empire as long we live ..U should know that they dare of any kill themselve to thing with nuclear weapon ..Specially those who harbor this country is China and Russian..that why they were against embrago ,,,etc...

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Oskar, Philadelphia, PA — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:18:11 GMT

Hmmm... some people seem to think that commander's in chief are always wise and/or are surrounded by the wise. Of course, the President serves at the pleasure of the People... and when the majority of us are saying that we don't want war with Iran and we want the war with Iraq to end... why doesn't he listen? He was, as are all elected leaders, voted in to serve in our name...and with our intentions. Clearly the war mongers and Bush apologists don't understand how this democracy is supposed to work. Of course, militarism is the evil which Dr. King spoke of that makes it possible for the people to look the other way when sabers get rattled or when Lockheed Martin charges them billions of dollars for an airplane or a missile. Take back your country. Take back your government and make friends with the world. Military or no military this nation needs to play nice and it doesn't do a good job of that.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Raul Longoria, Las Cruces, NM — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:18:28 GMT

? Is Bush planning to leave an "Iran war" gift to McCain? So do I vote for the war mongerer or the multi-personality-I'll-do-anything-for-power candidate?
Isabel Santamaria, El Paso, Tx. (Sent Tuesday, March 11, 2008 5:38 PM)

Actually, you do quite enough by being an illegal alien living on the backs of U.S. taxpayers, stuffing food stamps into your shoplifting purses, fraudulently obtaining free medical care, free education for your 25 illegitimate pin worm brats, and free housing while drug trafficking in cocaine and methamphetamine. But then, you are wanted by the authorities for crimes in Juarez...

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

CJ Alshahri, New York — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:18:55 GMT

We must not allow this out-of-control Republican Administration to drag us into any further conflicts.
The cost is far too high for such negligible results. War with the under preparred Iraqis was one thing. War with Iran will be a completely different situlation. If there really are plans for a pre-emptive strike on Iran, then we as a populace must take direct action to stop it any way we can before they escalate hostilities throughout the entire region. Perhaps it is time to actually consider engendering 1776:The Sequel.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Marc-Eddy East Lansdowne, Pennsylvania — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:20:16 GMT

Even my donkey can figure there won't have any profit for our nation to go to war with IRAN: I do not understand why it takes so long for the Bush administration to make a clear cut out of this " passion for war." I think it is time for Bush and Chenney's Psychiatrists to rescue us, we the true patriots of this nation.

We said we want to display courage, NOT competing with donkeys in the white House. Bush and Co. leave us alone, we are sick and tired of you ! I hope that Mc Cain won't find no one in Pennsylvania to support his cause. We have other need across this nation, and we won't prove ANYTHING for being bullies of other nations.

Marc-Eddy from East Lansdowne Pennsylvania.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Mudcat — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:20:55 GMT

Here, I am a liberal wimp. Bring it on. The Reserves are largely done and need re-equiping. That leaves the same 1/10th of 1% of all Americans making 98% of the real and tangible sacrifice. To the mindless chest-beaters - be honest - went was the last time you visited a military recruitment office, or urged family members to do so? Be honest.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Todd Millikan Corvallis Oregon — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:21:08 GMT

When will you liberal's grow a set? Has anyone realized that we are the only one' who can do anything anymore? I'm not saying go to war I'm just saying consider a language both conservatives and liberals can speak. Quit fighting and solve some of these problems together because we have seen what happens if we argue for 8 years!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

JW, Little Rock, AR — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:21:29 GMT

Military commanders and particularly general and flag officers should never speak out in public in a way that may cast their superiors in a bad light. As a former enlisted person, I'm sure that Adm. Fallon would not want one of his men or women speaking publically in a way that made him look bad.

When this happens, it creates a difficult situation for members of the public who do not have all of the information and should not jump to conclusions based on this incomplete information.

From my point of view if what is being reported is accurate, Adm Fallon did the nation a disservice but did the right thing in resigning.

For those of you who would "follow Fallon any day" and others who jumped to the conclusion the President Bush was chomping at the bit to start another war. let me suggest that you rethink your comments that were so obviously based on incomplete information and that praises an individual whom you know little about.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

John M. , Phoenix AZ — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:22:24 GMT

We can not afford the war we are in now nor do we have the military BIG enough to fight Iran and Iraq. 14 Billion a month now for Iraq alone? And we wonder why we are where we are economy wise!! Get a grip and listen to the soldiers. They are the one's we send to fight our wars, i think thay have a right to ask a few questions, don't you?

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

SMSgt Retired — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:24:15 GMT

As a 22 year veteran and former member of CENTCOM it has always amazed me that the very people who fight and die to preserve freedom and democracy, are the same people that are denied basic Constitutional rights such as freedeom of speech. At a time when our military forces are stretched beyond their capacity the President sees fit to let us lose a 4 star general, career soldier, and someone who is obviously one of the best and brightest military leaders in the country, for having an opinion that differed from his. What a tragedy.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Jim, New York, NY — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:24:21 GMT

To Willard Eversole,

Do you think we can fight a third war? Are you that lost? This administration has committed treason and lied to us all about the reasons to engage in a war with a country who had no ties to Al Qaeda and was not involved in 9/11. It shocks me that I have fellow Americans that can be so blind. Bush has caused more damage to our country than Bin Laden. Now he's getting rid of one more voice of reason. This administration has embarrassed our country and it's good name throughout the world and, especially at home.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

K. Alex Sullivan, Knoxville TN — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:24:43 GMT

You just have got to love the left. Bush bashing has become so popular its like the newest fasion fad!!! There are no FACTS (I know this is a word that the left does not understand)that the Admiral was against anything or any direction that the Bush Admin. was going with regard for Iran. Rest easy people you only have to put with Bush until November, then you wont have to worry about going to war with anyone, even if your typing your next response from a prayer rug pointing toward Mecca.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Jacob Deeds, San Antonio, TX — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:24:52 GMT

Why is everyone so surprised by this resignation? Is a newspaper a proper forum to speak out against a policy on Iran? No one has any problem with different opinions. They happen every day in every job, let alone the US Military. You just have to discuss them in a way professionals do, rather than the way Admiral Fallon decided. As a fellow officer in the US Military, he should resign for such unprofessional behavior.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

john k — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:25:03 GMT

Who is paying the "spin doctors" . They are not covered by any leglislation, and yet soeone is paying to get the message out ...bad or good..in favor of the one with the money. Is it the Republicans ...or someone else??? Maybe the Arabs?

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Stacy, Azua, Calif. — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:25:26 GMT

GW Bush,Jr., has been trying everything to get us in war with Iran for at least the pass 2 years. I've always said he'd have us in war with Iran before his term is up, also, Bin Laden will be captured, dead or alive.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

EK, PSL, FL — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:25:41 GMT

It just maybe that we have a president like this so we as Americans "wake up and smell the coffee". We as Americans sit and watch TV, while the government keeps us less or ill informed. There has to be a better way. If we aren't of one mind on the important things, it won't matter what we think of George W. because there won't be enough time to correct what needs correcting. If our commander's freedom of speech is muffeled, how long will it be before it happens to each of us? These are the people on the front lines, why can't we hear their thoughts?

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Max P, Virginia Beach, VA — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:25:54 GMT

Bush keeps saying that he relies on the judgment of his military commanders. Yeah, but only after getting rid of any of them who don't support his preconceived conclusions!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Joe Gatten, Lancaster,Ohio — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:27:11 GMT

It is never a good idea to have a president whose decisions are not subject to evaluation by other competent leaders. Allowing yourself as a people to be blindly led with no voice is folly, as was certainly learned by the German people leading up to WW2.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

DBCooper150 — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:27:22 GMT

fallon as an serving military leader was totally out of line in critising his seperior in this case an unpopular president. the military does not have the power to critize their leader, because the next step is the military replacing the civilian leaders. This is how coup work. fallon should either resign or be fired immediatley.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

adrian, new haven, connecticut — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:28:35 GMT

It's interesting that the president believes so ardently that congress should let commanders make all the decisions concerning military actions(i.e. troop surge in iraq). I guess it's only if they see it his way. I should hope there continue to be military folks that keep the facts in mind rather than the president's ego.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Ida Meadors, Mesa, AZ — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:28:37 GMT

Pray. Pray for your enemies. Pray that those you resent get everything in life they've ever wanted. Then pray for the willingness to pray this prayer with sincerity. It's amazing how praying for those I resent eases, and if I continue, eradicates my resentment.

It's a little intimidating to put these thoughts out there in cyber space to be judged, but I would rather handle ridicule than any more body bags.

My deepest gratitude to those that have, or are currently serving this country. My deepest apologies to those that have lost loved ones.

I am praying and I'm asking you to pray also.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Had it with GW and others — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:28:40 GMT

Stika, you are the typical right-wing nut job that we need to fear. Each time people like you don't understand the issues, you want nothing more than to nuke'em. Unbelievable! When will you warmongers learn? Iraq is mess! At $12 Billion per month, boy we are going broke, and you want to go into Iran??? What a joke! Our dollar is in the trash and we are borrowing from creditor nations to finance this mess in Iraq. We are also failing in Afghanistan, where the Taliban and Bin Laden happen to be. Now, for fear of Iran getting their hands on nuclear weapons, you want to use the "First Strike" mentality of GW. The warmongers also feared China. Many had that same mentality that the right-winger Stika has. But level heads prevailed. So, why don't we just nuke N.Korea, nuke Pakistan, because they both have nuclear arsenals. Hey, maybe, just maybe, this will bring us a tiny nuclear winter and it may, just may, reverse our global warming problem. So, nuke 'em, boys! Nuke 'em!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Joe Jacksonville Florida — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:29:28 GMT

Why should we see Iran any different than tey se Israel. Iran is the one threatening war that will destroy the world and it's not far away. Is the US idiots going to do like Pearl Harbor - wait until it's to late. Reguardless of who is right we face a very dangerous idiot in Iran.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Mike Cooper - Austin, TX — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:29:30 GMT

Iran would like nothing more than for us to attack them and play the victim and prove to the world that we are the evil empire some think. They don't care about their people. They are starving and dying in the streets. All they do is try to provoke us. We need to keep an eye them but not blow them off the map. I can't believe that our government is seriously considering this. If they are God help us all.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Geraldine Michel Ferrari — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:29:49 GMT

The world is watching what you guys are discussing,yet it is sad that the point is missed again by the very people you voted for to harm others what-so-ever cost and reason behind it

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Jim Jensen, Lakewood, CA — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:29:53 GMT

I applaud the General for resigning in the face of a totally inept Administration's latest boondoggle. War with Iran? Isn't Halliburton making enough money double-billing the military for our ill-conceived efforts in Iraq? Those great Halliburton Patriots who moved their Corporate headquarters to Dubai? Cheney's pals? Follow the money...to Dubai!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

C. T. Hager<Baltimore Md — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:32:17 GMT

Why are all the comments about this situation from liberal people critical of all that the Bush administation has done? What if a diry bomb had been allowed to be purchased from Iraq and detonated in Los Angeles? We know for certain that Iraq had many weapons and used them against its own people. You would be the same people clamoring for Bush's head for not doing something before this situation could take place. Remember, Iraq was warned by the UN a ton of times to no avail. In addition, if you don't know what the Oil For Food Scandal was you had better look it up. It is the biggest scandal in the history of the world. Nothing else comes close. As a student of history, I feel justified in this statement. It has deeply affected all our efforts in the world community and in the Middle East. People get real; don't just keep saying "Bush is stupid".

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Alex,Atlanta,Georgia — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:34:00 GMT

Some Americans are blinded by stuborness and will of power and supremacy. We are the best place to live in the world because or our beliefs and our principles which are being destroit or overridden by this Administration. If you believe that the "comander in Chief" has the last say in going to War... read the COnstitution: Congress also has a say on that. Thats how a Republic works: a totalitarian President shouldnt exists; there are mechanism or control like Congress. Admiral Fallon I am proud of having a man like you in our Military Ranks!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Louis Snyder — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:34:08 GMT

I agree it would be madness to attack Iran at this date and time. Thank God for Admiral Fallon. Thank Satan for George Bush! i am going out and buy a copy of Esquire as soon as I send this message.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

KingEd — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:34:24 GMT

That's honor and respect for the POTUS. Sounds like Adm. Fallon stepped down just because the media was going to pit him against the White House. Cohesion even when they disagree. Are we still "rushing" to war with Iran??

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Chris Schene, Phoenix, AZ — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:34:41 GMT

The idiot Bush has so depleted out money, prestige and worn out our military so much that we are no longer strong enough financially, in terms of will or militarily capable of defeating Iran. The idiot GW and Neocons lost the lives of many of our military, our money and our energy on a war we did not have to fight. Saddam was holding the Iranian Shiite’s at bay and actually helping us: Now we have made our real enemy Iran stronger.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Art S — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:35:02 GMT

First, he was stupid to trust the press; they gave up objective reporting a long time ago and replaced it with sensational garbage. Second, it is easy for Bush and company to clamor for war, their children will never see the front lines and spill their blood for their country. This shows just how cowardly and two faced 99 percent of our politicians are - both sides of the fence.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Syzzygy — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:35:02 GMT

All through the ages, there have been leaders whose sole basis for determining a persons status with them was whether that person was Loyal To Them Alone. When that loyalty was questioned, the person was removed in whatever manner the leader chose. The irony is that this group of people usually ended up getting betrayed in the end in a major way because of this. People like Ghenghis Khan, Napoleon, Hitler, etc.

It seems that when you require yes men for your loyalists, you always pay a bigger price then when you have honest disagreement. It's sad that President G. W. Bush hasn't been able to learn anything from the history of his own administration.

I smell a Wag the Dog moment coming.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

john q public — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:37:32 GMT

Disinformation is a strategic weapon as well. Just as Gen Rodriguez said no taliban spring surge in Afghanistan this a ploy for the next round or foreign negotiations. Hmm Vice Presidency in the making with an old McCain shipmate?

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

JohnO — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:38:25 GMT

Let's all sit back, let Iran build nukes, and wait for them to blow up New York, or Washington, or Israel, or Iraq.......I did not say attack them, but we need to be very cautious. We need to stop them now, anyway we can. I agree with an earlier comment, "a soldiers fear is not an option". The people of Iran may not like their leaders, but will they sit still while their leaders plan nuclear weapons and a possible confrontation with another country? This is not poker, we must be holding the winning hand, or we are DEAD!!!! They will not hesitate to bomb anyone!!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Zeph O., Shoreline, Washington — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:38:37 GMT

America has got use her resources carefully and smartly. We can not just go to war because we are tough and have the best military that can defeat any other in the super dooper world! America is the land of the strong and the smartest, not the land of the wannabeees. Let us not use our men and women's lives to show the other people how tough we can be. Let us use the smartness to execute the smart bombs!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

William Belfont Bangor MAine retired air force — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:39:08 GMT

firts of all, only CONGRESS can raise an army and declare WAR not the adminstartive branch of our government,but they gave away that when they passed the war powers act to get us into Viet Nam, now we are mired in an unjust,illegal,immoral war and more and more americans and iraqis are being killed each day, you have to read articiles written by Darth Cheny to understand that he wans to invade other countries to bring "democracy" to them we live in a REPUBLIC that is suppossed to be democratic but its not we have 2 people in the white house who are oil men and somehow stayed out of the military, Cheney with SIX college deferments during Viet Nam and Bush gets backing by his da to get out of the texas guard and out of Viet Nam, but they dont blink an eye about sending others childrens into this war..not another war with Iran, its not Iraq!!!!!!!!!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Lt. Col. James Earhardt — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:39:10 GMT

You people are idiots! A nuclear armed Iran is our worse nightmare. Typical whiny lefties on these websites who would cower under their desks no matter what the threat was. Okay fine, no war or airstrikes. What's your answer, lefties? Talking to lunatics like Ahmadinejad and Khameni will get you nowhere. We tried negotiating with North Korea, and like most totalitarian regimes, they went back on their word. Your hero, Jimmy Carter was the lead negotiator on that disaster. So tell me oh genius, holier than thou, left wing know it alls, what do you suppose we do to stop madmen in Tehran from getting a bomb they will hold over everyone's head? My guess is that your answers will be as lame as your ability to understand the situation we face.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

STFU, anchorage, AK — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:39:42 GMT

anyone who is pro-war but hasn't enlisted needs to STFU.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Barbara felton Pocatello, Idaho — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:41:35 GMT

The comments are all interesting. Some from barely literate, and ignorant, individuals. These are the ones who voted The Idiot back into office in 2004 and they still think his (and Cheney's) views are right on. So long as we have people who cannot even write English, let alone think it, we'll continue to be a fractured country.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Janet — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:42:05 GMT

Serving at the pleasure of the President. What do they think he is King.

The majority of the people are not pleased with the President. Can he stop serving us.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Patricia Shelton, Brewster, WA — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:42:06 GMT

Until, and unless, this nation has a draft before we do anything military wise with Iran, and that draft includes women and does not allow exemptions for any daughters or sons of politicians or the well connected then any talk/action is being taken by people who want the husbands/wives, sons/daughters/ dads/moms of 'other' people to pull the military might for the nation.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

T. Morlan — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:42:07 GMT

Yo, lee you seem to be slightly intelligent so why don't you put a sock in it and let the man leave in peace. All of this and preznut mcchimp deserve what he has sowed, yes men and women in this country serve no one at least he done the honorable thing and rolled. I too would have considering that no one is listening to the pros anyway.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:42:36 GMT

Admiral Fallon is a VERY HONORABLE MAN and I'm sure HE did not want HIS Military Career to go out like this. He was forced to resign by the White House.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE ADMIRAL FALLON AND HIS SOLDIERS-

GOD WILL PUNISH THOSE WHO TAKE THINGS IN THEIR OWN HANDS

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

john doe — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:45:11 GMT

Who do believe an Admirial or Bush and his cronies!!LOL

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Jim - Los Angeles, California — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:45:50 GMT

If we only knew the information that the President is briefed daily on... I’m sure it would make our hair stand on end. These religious fundamentalist are pure evil. Now is the time to set back EVIL for good before it’s too late. Not by attacking Iran militarily, but by getting all sane world leaders, including Bush, to rally decent human beings against the fundamentalist. Are you aware that the Koran states, and these Muslim fundamentalist believe, that ALL non-Muslims should die at the point of a true Muslim’s sword? It should be an international “hate” crime when anyone proclaims death to anyone or anything in the name of their religion with the violators tried and locked up for the rest of their lives. If you don’t think Iran is a threat, then why is it that the few "civilized" countries in the Middle East fear Iran more than we do? It’s because they KNOW what Iran is up to. Perhaps those of you who refuse to pull your heads out of the sand will realize how evil these people are when your hero Obama becomes president and suddenly turns in to a “hawk” also.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

bob — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:47:03 GMT

You know, even if the Commander's reasons for retiring are purely personal, just the fact the savvy public can see why the report seems plausible. The forest through the trees, if you will.

Let's face it, we've let megalomaniacs run this country for over a generation. All three branches.

What is it going to take before folk realize, the men at the top are certifiably insane. They're going to get alot more of us killed.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Belle Aklilu — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:48:45 GMT

I think the general made a good move in challenging the war with Iran, At this time the US military and economy is in danger. This could tip the balance in the US staying as the world power. The arogance of Iran can be handled diplomatically and by sunction. Alternative option should be taken. Thank you.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Carla, Augusta, GA — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:49:00 GMT

BUSH is an idiot period. This is still a free country the last time I checked. And we should be able to criticize his idiocracy!!! We need to mind our business and bring the soldiers that we are already dying for his stupidity home. The last thing we need to do is start more trouble!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Belle Aklilu — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:49:15 GMT

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Robert, Salem, Oregon — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:49:43 GMT

In the comment above this, the poster says "FYI General: Your suppose to talk tough and let the White House do the diplomacy." Im just wondering, when that poster has EVER seen this White House do any diplomacy. That is not their operating procedure. They talk war and force and expect everyone to fall in line. They give no incentives for other nations to follow their policies, except for the claims of "you should be afraid".

Do I think that military officers should publicly speak about they personal opinions? No, I think that they should maintain their chains of command and not talk out of turn; However, once they resign their commision I believe that their opinions are invaluable to sorting through the political mess surrounding military action.

Furthermore, the White House is going to continue to have problems with military personnel disregarding the danagers and speaking publicly, because this White House (for all of its claims to the contrary) DOES NOT LISTEN to its military experts. They dont listen to any disenting voices, they find the few people who agree with them and hold them up as the "foremost experts" on the subject even if they are not.

What a world we have come to...only 8 more months.... thank goodness

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Mike James San Diego,Ca. — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:51:37 GMT

Americn saftey on Bushs shoulders!!!SCARY

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

William Zalewski, Fort Collins, CO — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:52:02 GMT

And McCain is going to keep up this tradition? I hope not.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Mickey, NY — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:53:22 GMT

Anyone who dares go againts Hitle...err...Bush is a goner!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

ali hussain jedda ksa — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:53:36 GMT

why is it that any war news against iran is connected to mr dick cheney.
he is again out touring the middle east to get the arabs lined up against iran.
is the iraq & afghanistan mess not enough ???

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Youngblood Hawk — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:54:01 GMT

I believe we are seeing a man of vision, with deep principles, speak out for what is right for the country, and the service(s)he loves.

In so doing, he is willing to take early retirement, and take the hit for his secretary of defense and others privately vocal against in military action against Iran.

You want to know what a patriot is? Look no further then to Admiral Fallon!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Phil, Port Angeles Wa — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:55:06 GMT

No one is in the way of a war with Iraq except Bush. He is the commander in chief so it is his say. Congress has to officially declare war but that has largely been ignored in most instances, (except Iraq where Congress did vote for war).

A military commander has no business questioning foreign policy his only task is to execute orders. Generals second guessing elected leaders leads to military coups.

Leave foreign policy to the administration and combat strategy to the generals.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Lorenzo Herman, Portland, Oregon — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:55:09 GMT

To Willard Eversole:
The president is not God and he does not necessarily speak for God. Therefore, no man or woman should give anyone blind faith or allegiance to make a decision to go to war without being held accountable by the people for his decision. America safety relies upon our shoulders and the commander in chief works for us-the American people. It is political laziness and undemocratic for the people to deny themselves the right to constructively criticize our leaders, hold them accountable, and demand the whole truth so help me God.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

big d, somewhere, ohio — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:56:02 GMT

american safety lies upon his shoulders....

weren't those the shoulders that let 3 planes kill thousands of americans on sept, 11? nice work current administration.

maybe they can mail out another check to all the american taxpayers so we forget what they're doing.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Michelle, Ma — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:56:44 GMT

The GOP wants Spitzer to resign or they'll impeach him... I agree with their concerns. At the same time however, who are they to say anything when our country is being brought down in every way, shape and form by this administration and they haven't done anything to fight it. I'm disgusted by what I've seen from all aspects of the Government. We claim to be pushing democracy abroad, when we aren't practicing it at home. When will they do something to benefit the people they represent? What other crime will this administration have to commit before real action is taken?

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

myron hughes chattanooga, tn. — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:57:12 GMT

The message i read from your blogs, is that a lot of people are drinking the kool-aid.
I agree that President Bush should be more active in defending the actions that he takes, with some measure of explanation, but does anyone think that our national policies should be tossed out for any and all to read and disect as they may see fit for their own political purposes.
Admiral do not let yourself be used for political fodder.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

William Scott — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:57:16 GMT

All war mongers should be dealt with, as they rightfully deserve. We have no leadership in this country. Eisenhower was right, in his closing public speech in 51. It's high time and high crime, to purge this once much greater nation, of the garbage in D.C. The whole lot of them... Jefferson Madison and Washington, were patriots, not cowards. These people (especially within the current Admin., Congress and the Senate) are simply pathetic cowardly criminals. And should be stripped of power and be tried as traitors. Pick your war, the past 50- years. Nuf said.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Richard , Minden City MI. — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:57:18 GMT

I agree with Lee Shreve and Willard Eversole, A military subordinant knows better that to side step or critisize Government policy. With all the best Military training this General has been given he still doesn't seem to understand what his duties are, and obviously neither do his suporters. If we had military personel analizing their orders each time they were given, where would we be now? It's bad enough that everyone has a mother in this country, and no one can serve in harms way with out their out cry, but now we have coureer highly paid officers that can't take orders. I don't see how we will ever win another war. Elect one of the quiter Democrats to the White House and see what Iran does. Ostriches....

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Ralph — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:57:45 GMT

This is for Lee Shreve's and Willard Eversole's digestion. I agree with both of your comments if in fact we had a CINC with some intelligence. This commander-in-chief has repeatedly blundered in foreign diplomacy/policy; has us involved in a conflict with no end, with no defined goals other than "We will remain there until we win." When asked his definition of winning, he replies, "By getting the job done." And what is that job, Mr. President? "To remain there until we win!" Frankly, I'm embarrassed that in a country of over 300 million people, with the most advance learning institutions in the world, the best we could come up with is George W. Bush. At some point, someone has to call the kettle black! We're way past that point. Anything to stop Mr. Bush from getting us into another of his emotional conflicts must and should be done. When he took over this country, we had a booming economy, with a surplus trade. Where are we now and where is the economy headed?!? To leave any more decisions on this President's shoulder is irresponsible and criminal. How many more Americans must die for Mr. Bush's personal and ill defined conflicts? Finally, how can diplomacy be carried out by an administration where the leader is incompetent and the second in command is a dictator-in-training? Admiral Fallon is a 40+ year professional military officer with considerable formal training, considerable sense of duty, who is fully aware of the consequences of speaking out on his CINC's military conflicts policy. For him to do so, it means he is at his end. The Military code demands that unlawful and unethical orders by superiors should not be obeyed. How many more unethical moves will we allow this president to make?

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Sam Brown, Roseville, CA — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:58:20 GMT

The one large reality is the higher the deficit spending for this war, the lower the dollar will fall. As the dollar falls, inflation increases and at some point, so will interest rates.

If any lesson can be learned from history, it is expanding military actions beyond a nation's capacity to finance the military leads to a collapse. One need only look at Ancient Greece, Rome, and Moorish expansions and ultimate costs. More recently, the largest empire, the British Empire proved too costly to maintain, financially and militarily.

This is not to say the US has imperialistic intent. It is to say succeeding generations of politicians are using paranoia to maintain military outposts far too long after hostilities have ceased. There is also the resistance of local populations to the loss of the generous revenues and by foreign governments not wanting the to increase military spending of their own when the US will do it for them. It is a pyrrhic win-win, so to speak, for both the US and the foreign entities. They maintain lower spending and we reduce our paranoia by maintaining the illusion of control.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Mac, Detroit,Mi — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:59:35 GMT

Where has White House diplomacy got the U.S.? It's made oil barons and war profiteers billions of dollars. The rest of the nation is in the gutter. There is a reason top military advisors are against entering another war without an end plan. Learn our lesson? Childrens do learn.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

BW, Brooklyn, NY — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:59:56 GMT

Adm. Fallon, like any other American, is protected under the first amendment. We must realize that America's strength & security lies in our democratic values, our freedoms. No one person can guarantee our security. Its all of us including the Admiral.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Dan Akron — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:00:37 GMT

This is what dictators do to there staff members. They make them go-away if that member speaks his or her mind. This administration is nothing more than a dictatorship. I cannot believe that there are still people out there that support the current dictator in Washington. Wake-up people!!!!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

MARINES — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:01:21 GMT

BUSH WILL GO TO WAR WITH IRAN. HE WILL ATTACK THEM NO MATTER WHAT WHO OR WHEN THEY COME INTO OFFICE. BUSH AND CHENEY AND THE NEOCONS. KNOW WHEN OBAMA OR CLINTON COMES INTO OFFICE. AND THE HOUSE AND SENATE DOES IT PROBES INTO THE MISHANDLING OF FUNDS AND WAR LIES COMES OUT.. THERE IS NO PARDON (LIKE FORD TO NIXON)...... IT IS PROSECUTION AT ITS FULLEST.. ALL THE HOUSE IS WAITING FOR AND SENATE IS BUSH GET THE HELL OUT OF OFFICE.. HE IS A DISGRACE TO AMERICA AND HUMAN BEINGS...... ADD CHENEY AND THE REST OF THE NEO-NAZI REGIME......BELEIVE ME, BUSH WILL INVADE IRAN..

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Hal Schwartz — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:02:46 GMT

Well, here is another example of the knowledgeable folks being killed by the politicians. What a disgrace to Bush and his talking heads. We're lucky someone, unfortunately one of the minority who has sense to know a losing battle when he sees one, has the guts to call it like it is.

I am appalled at the military's counsel being so blatently disregarded when it receives "praise" from the politicians as an afterthought in the guise of "praise".

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:02:50 GMT

Adm Fallon speaking truth to power is not wrong. It is part of a soldier's job.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Moe Anderson — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:03:14 GMT

I am completely amazed how idiots say that we should be worried about IRAN. iran cannot launch missles to the usa. Secondly, it seems to me that this attitude that we have the right to police the world is CRAZY!!. Given the history of this country past and current where acts of violence committed daily against its citizens and then brazenly overlooked as if it never happened. ex: Dialo in new york black kid shoot 42 times by police. and i could go on. This country was founded by criminals and ran by them to this day. So, who is america to try to tell anybody what they can have in their country. Seems to me that these cowardly thieves here have committed crimes around the globe and are afraid of pay back. Plus, why isnt anyone talking about impeaching this idiot in office now for an illegal war? Now guess what? He wants to start another one. Americans like to portray itself as the moral compass of the world but id truly the pit of the BEAST......!!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Raye, Phoenix, AZ — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:03:37 GMT

The Iranian people have had about 29 years to fix their broken government. The Shah left in 1979 and it has been the Mullahs and Ayatollahs running things ever since. The talking head Mahmoud is just that. He runs nothing. Why would a few more years for the Iranian people to become more democratic help anything? Yeah, many Iranians are for democratic leadership but they have all left Iran. That is why you know them. Go there and meet the regular folks. See where their loyalty lies. I don't want war with Iran or anyone but unless you have a better plan than talking them to death, shut up and let the leaders make the decisions. Also, when a country (and I am talking about the USA) is looked upon by nearly everyone to fix everything - some things need to be secretive because "we the people" are not smart enough to understand covert. Some idiot would tell our fair press corp and they would send an instant message to Osama and friends. People in this country are free to be stupid but why advertise it all the time?

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Brandon O. Los Angeles, CA — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:04:32 GMT

Contrary to the beliefs of some, it is not only prudent to question our leadership, but our civic responsibility. If we questioned those in power we might still be a satellite of the British monarchy. It is a sad statement of the times we live in when thought and public discourse are skewed and twisted by those looking to keep power, and hide behind it, that those who speak up and try to call attention to issues or policies that might be contrary to our best interest are publicly flogged. Elected officials are meant to represent our will and interests in government, not the interests of their friends, campaign contributors, and stock portfolios. We have every right to speak up and be heard and it is about time that someone gives a voice to the opinion that reflects the general consensus instead of the opinion of the uneducated and unqualified.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

J. Goodnight, Anaheim Hills, CA — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:05:49 GMT

ADM Fallon is doing the only honorable thing--resigning. When an officer is commissioned, he/she takes an oath of office that states "to support and defend the constitution of the United States, and to obey the orders of the President and those officers appointed over him."

If you cannot live up to this pledge, then as the old saying goes, either "lead, follow, or get out of the way."

Retired Army Officer

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Paul Bush — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:06:22 GMT

Why do WE always have to be the police? Let some other countries step up to the plate and accept the loss of their people and the massive amount of money this has and will take. We are being pushed into this by Others!!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Zemilio, Seattle, WA — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:08:21 GMT

Lee Shreve - Maybe you should read about Lt. Col. Colby Vokey, or U.S. Navy Lt. Cmdr. Charles Swift. You most likely think that $12 billion a month spent on Iraq doesn't is better than spending that on Katrinas victims.

After 9-11 and 1/2 a trillion dollars people have been dancing in the street and Washington can't stop it...Mission Accomplished? Only thing accomplished is gas is up $4 per gallon and the president doesn't even know this...LOL

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Alvin C, Los Angeles, CA — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:10:43 GMT

So Willard Eversole, if your Commander in Chief told you to go jump off of a bridge..........

I can't go on. It's just too easy!
Sheesh!!! (rolling my eyes and shaking my head)

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

John Lewis, Spring Lake, NJ — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:10:51 GMT

Typical Bush BS ! Remember General Chinseki ? The only General that got Iarq right and he was forced out while the guys that blew smoke got promoted ! I always thought Bush was just dumb, but now I really think he is crazy !!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

LTJG George USN San Diego CA — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:10:57 GMT

This is to Mr. Lee Shreve, You Sir obviously do not study history well enough. First Fallon is an Admiral NOT a General. Second You have obviously never served a DAY in your life taking for granted the freedoms that those of us in uniform fight for every day. For 18 Years I have defended this nation. It is not my duty or any other uniformed serviceperson's duty to question our orders. THATS for you the citizens of this country to do. It's your responsibility to take action when the president or any other elected official heads down the path of destruction.
I know many people in the military that do not agree with the war and privately we discuss it. But never will you see a military member openly question the president because he is in our chain of command. Ultimatley if he issues a lawful order, then it's our duty to obey it.
It's funny how those that have the least to lose are the one's who are quickest to call for war. Never stopping to think of the blood spilled for that godforsaken plot of sand or the economic toll it takes on our economy!!!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

bill columbus oh — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:13:13 GMT

mr. Shreve-the only problem with your logic is that this administartion-and this president in particular-don't know anything about diplomacy-they showede this in the run up to the Iraq war. Congrats Admiral-you have your dignity intact

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

John — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:14:02 GMT

Every General wants to fight the next war...never fully embracing the victory that peace can bring. The economy is going into the toliet, while we're spending billions per month in Iraq...where does it end?

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

mike saudi arabia — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:14:24 GMT

For Lee Shreve in Baton Rouge- Americans especially those in public service not only have the right but the moral obligation to "disagree" with policies that affect their lives, jobs and futures. thats why they call this a democracy-

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

ret03 greenville, nc — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:14:38 GMT

WE NEED FALLON TO STAY PUT.
WE NEED GOOD LEADERSHIP IN THE PENTAGON.
WE NEED LESS TESTOSTERONE IN THE WHITE HOUSE. WE NEED SENATOR CLINTON TO GET AND KEEP THE RIGHT PEOPLE -MEN AND WOMEN- IN THE PLACES OF LEADERSHIP TO LEAD THIS COUNTRY OUT OF THE MESS IT IS IN HERE AND ALL OVER THE WORLD.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Peggy Lockwood — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:16:40 GMT

Military 101-Obey your commander, it is past time for the gentleman to go and good day!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

John Castle, Laughlin, NV — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:18:22 GMT

No need for bright, thoughtful, opinionated leaders in our military? Are you sure about that, Righty? Ever occur to you that although a US president occupies the office of commander in chief, he is very rarely experienced in military matters? Do we really think it appropriate for our best and brightest military minds to simply get onboard with whatever the next temporary political fixture has in mind? Should generals behave as privates when directed by politicos? I think not. The last thing we need from our military commanders is tough talk and posturing. Our president and his VP have that front adequately covered. Clear thinking, strategic military planning by men who've trained all their lives for the job... That's what's needed to mount an effective military campaign. We are desperately short of that resource just now, and that is clearly the fault of this administration. Only a coward would continue to roll the blame downward and place it on our military personnel. Officers and soldiers are NOT to blame. Commanders that speak up are absolutely vital!
Do you operate your own home by bullying, threatening, and posturing... Are these your idea of good leadership? Do you really think that these childish acts are going to give us an ounce of security? What we need is real, intelligent, consciencious leadership, and a return to an open government policy so that those who are blatantly corrupt or simply too stupid to serve us effectively can be removed from office.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Frank Dees, Las Vegas, NV — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:20:43 GMT

I will not comment because you will not publish my comments that for sure will attack most those the comments I have read. Including the not so capable author of the article. Fallon's job is not policy, if he is ever elected then let him speak his mind.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Matt Albany NY — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:21:02 GMT

I admire his intelligence and his independence...but he should be fired..if he says it the president in a conference room, fine..or he can resign...but if a soldier does this, he should be cashiered out...An active soldier must never do what he did in Esquire

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

P Roos, Lititz, PA — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:22:15 GMT

I'm glad to see that someone finally has the ba _ _s to say enough is enough and stand up to our leader (?)... Way to go Admiral Fallon! At least you don't need to sing or dance to be noticed. Our country is becoming a "joke" because of our president and November can't come soon enough...

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Steve, Indpls, IN — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:22:31 GMT

Dissention in the ranks is not a new occurence. I still remember the mass exodus of 'seasoned veterans' at the onset of the Carter Admin.
Regardless, (and thank God) the Constitution of this great country places the responsibility of executing 'War' with the President and not with 'Poll-driven' Politicians. Pres. Bush took the oath to protect the citizens of the U.S.--not to ask them how they felt about it. The Joint Chiefs are tasked with devising tactical and strategic options to allow the pres to "carry a big stick"...the State Dept is tasked with "holding out the carrot" and the military is tasked to "be the stick". Congressmen and Senators take an oath to 'uphold and protect the constitution', giving them lateral movement to 'put in their 2 cents worth'.
No one wants to go to war. No one is sitting on a landing craft 'in the Gulf'. The pres has just drawn a line in the sand and the pres of Iran is constantly jumping at (sometimes over) that line in provocation.
Bush has actually shown markedly more restraint than would have been exercised by JFK, Reagan, Roosevelt, Truman or Johnson. Or would you rather see another Carter or Clinton response????

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

JAG Royal Oaks CA — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:24:03 GMT

"But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therfore sober, and watch unto prayer" 1 Peter 4:7

Peace, will be removed from the entire Earth and times such as have never been before are at hand. The only sure way is Jesus Christ, do you know Him today?

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

D M Paterson NJ — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:24:36 GMT

Bush always chooses to work from the last three cards in the deck which leaves him no room to maneuver. I have no doubt that the current leadership in Iran has caused trouble and will continue to do so. George Bush is an absolutist who sees everything in black and white . To engage Iran in war would unleash Persian nationalism and engulf the Mid East in flames. We should engage Iran but in a way that allows for possibilities other than war.I have read that many people in Iran are "pro-western". We is this administration throwing the moderates & young people under the bus? We overthrew the government of Iran in 1953. The radicals seized our people & property back in 1979. Both of our countries have been locked in a frozen zone. With the exception of Iran offering help back in 2003 there has been no real positive developments . Of course Iran did offer help because it suited its own needs-but at least it was an opening. I am not saying that we should have a real estate agent contact their government about purchasing a building in Washington DC for use as an embassy. Then again any chance that we have to enter into a dialogue with them why not ? Keep your powder dry and your eyes & options open.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Chris Schene — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:25:11 GMT

leader should second guess the comander in chief.he is the one that has to make the final decison,america safety lies upon his shoulders.
===================================================
Nonsense. Our misguided command-in-chief wasting our military and economic resources on an unnecessary war. I am thankful for brave officers who oppose him.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

KB, Florence, Oregon — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:29:10 GMT

Gates was appointed to his current post in order Bush could get out of the lime light as a proven lier, meaning it become important for Bush needing to keep his mouth shut in order his foot remains on the floor instead of his mouth. This does not mean, however, that Bush's proven skill of lying to the American people ended, its just different now that all lies must come from Gates, which I think most of us know he’s doing very well. (Lying that is)

Point being, no matter who says whatever, don't believe anything coming from anybody. So tell me, why do these jerks keep talking. I firmly believe we need to pick up Bush's toys and get our ass out of Iraq regardless of any consequences, for those consequences belong to Bush and Bush alone. Remember, Bush held Saddam accountable for not following Bush’s every demand and now the American people need to hold Bush accountable as we demand he withdraw from Iraq. That should be followed very soon thereafter with his federal indictments for his violations of our Constitution and other infractions of American Law.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Sgt Gregory Samules Baghdad Iraq — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:29:47 GMT

well I think alot of the people who send in these e-mail are all talk because most of you have never been to Iraq or the middle east. Alot of you people never lost a friend that you served with I am in Iraq at this current time defending all we believe is true but this was a mistake and all the ill advised
decision making was not in the best intrest of the american people but I do see alot of change in this country but alot of pain. I take my hat off to admiral for finally standing up for what is true in his heart.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Watchley52, Dallas, TX — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:31:02 GMT

The lop-sided liberal press is NOT where this battle should be waged. The fall out from idiots that put it in print can be worse than nukes. I'm not an advocate of government secrecy, but for the sake of mankind, if you chose to create a movement, if you just gotta get behind something and pursue it to the death.... crush the liberal press.

For those who do not seem to know the difference, Fallon is a Naval Officer, an Admiral, not a General. The rank of Admiral is not a true comparison to that of General. Admiral Fallon and a few more of us are offended that you refer to him as a mere General...

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Alex, Stockton, CA — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:32:31 GMT

There are only 10 months left in this idiot's presidency. Can he at least not start another blunder before his time is up? That's all we ask.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Robert Tucson Arizona — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:32:38 GMT

The previous two commentors obviously are not aware that no country is invincible not even the U.S the attitude that well kick anyones butt any day, is not going to get us victory. Admiral Fallon was not being a "wimp" he was stating a fact. Sometimes facts arent pleasent. But I ask what would you prefer an honest soldier or one who simply goes along with everything a failed president is saying. Presidents who do things like rescend Habeaus Corpus and mismanage International Affairs should be second guessed when they need to. Dubya isnt a millitary expert Fallon is. If it was your son or your brother going to fight a war that the millitary its self is against with global repurcussions I think youd be singing a different tune. Being strategic and fighting battles we can win at the right time is not being a wimp, its being intelligent. I gurantee you Admiral Fallon would not be where he was for so long if he was a wimp. The fact is our forces are already stretched to thin. War with Iran would right now be catastrophic

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Yevgeni Stepanov — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:33:57 GMT

I love how we hear people clamoring for an impeachment. It shows how ignorant they are.

Impeachment requires proof that a law has been broken by the person being impeached. While unpopular (now) the President had the authority to take the US to Iraq.

Being unpopular isn't an impeachable offense!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

RHJ Chicago Ill. — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:34:57 GMT

WHAT ALLIES IN THE REGION????
Generals should not set policy but thier boss could
stop being such a COWBOY!!!
I had a boss who was just like G.W.B.he distroyed everything he touched but never thought he was ever wrong,he just got fired,but left alot of damage.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Sgt Gregory Samules Baghdad Iraq — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:35:11 GMT

well I think alot of the people who send in these e-mail are all talk because most of you have never been to Iraq or the middle east. Alot of you people never lost a friend that you served with I am in Iraq at this current time defending all we believe is true but this was a mistake and all the ill advised
decision making was not in the best intrest of the american people but I do see alot of change in this country but alot of pain also. I take my hat off to the Admiral for finally standing up for what is true in his heart.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Billy Gomes — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:36:03 GMT

This President has proven over and over again that he is not the brightest bulb in the package, but he certainly does like to listen to bad advice from any source that can deliver him what he thinks will be a great legacy as a "WAR" president.
He will go to war with any nation that has oil and will do it to please his masters in that business.
He doesn't take the time to consider that the people he kills today will be avenged by their kin and make their hatred of America grow.
If the American people were smart they would try to remove Cheney firest and then go after Bush. We certainly don't want a President Cheney!!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Christopher F. — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:36:38 GMT

I wish Admiral Fallon had given the true reasons for his resignation - his not being able to abide with more war mongering on part of the Bush administration.

The Armed Services Committee should call Fallon to testify.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

mike Seattle, Wa — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:36:47 GMT

Let's see; the left says that the President should listen to the experts about the potential war with Iran. The President is stupid for not doing so.
However, he listened to the experts; The CIA, all of our intel groups, the intel of England, the intel of France, the intel of Isreal, the intel of Germany.
He then (with the approval of Congress) struck Iraq.
Now, the left says he lied and he's stupid.
You can't have it both ways, (although the left always tries)he is the Commander in Chief and all Star and Flag rank answer to POTUS.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Average Joe — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:36:50 GMT

Does any one really think that we live in a democracy? Sure things are better here than other places around the world, but think about this question. What part of your life is not in some way controlled? There are really only two objectives of any government. Control the population and ensure that the privileged remain privileged. Those in power will do anything to make sure that those two objectives are met; political affiliation has nothing to do with it except the manner in how they do it. Republican agenda is to have few at the top with everyone else under their thumb to fend for themselves. The democrat agenda is to have a few at the top and make everyone else dependent on them to survive. So, if go to war is the current party’s way to accomplish this, that is what they will try to convince the population it is needed. The overall outcome is the same for the average person. The rest is just BS.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Pamela Anderson, Vancouver, Washington; USA — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:36:57 GMT

The louder the yick yack the more apparent personal risk is not involved. Shreve in Baton Rouge: unless you're willing to suit up and sacrifice, shutup! Fallon didn't quit -- the man simply retired after 41 years of selfless service!
It's career suicide for military personnel to say anything against (our) government; which is precisely why media-moles fall for the ole, [no, seriously, "they" wanna be there]; more importantly though, why Generals tend to offer a different perspective AFTER they've retired. NO...they didn't change their minds, they changed their attire and finally were free to speak their minds!
My son's stationed out of CENTCOM, currently on tour in Iraq. The FYI rings irony; "You['re] suppose to talk tough and let the White House do the diplomacy." *Diplomacy is talking tough without using aggression or force!
If MY phone rings at 3:00 a.m., I'm calling Fallon, not the White House! CIC eligibility should mandate prior military service: "Chiefs" learn wisdom only from experience.
Shout-out to my TSGT son -- GO AIR FORCE!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

G Piatt — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:37:46 GMT

God Bless our Military and God Bless President George Bush. Americans only after President Bush is out of office will then realize what a hero he is. If you do not like this country Get The Hell Out. Please take all the nutless democrats with you.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Hank — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:38:06 GMT

What a crock, Willard. The Decider is a self-appointed fraud. The Constitution says we do not have a Decider. We are supposed to have a president who's power is checked by the courts, and Congress, unless we allow their powers to be usurped. Our inarticulate, illogical, ignorant president needs to hear dissenting opinions, and consider them before he acts.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Kevin Nicol, Parrish, Fl — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:38:48 GMT

I am a historian and millitary history is a hobbie of mine. Every historian knows that in the battle of Britian during the nazi air assualt on england, england was about to fall. Had Hitler continued with his bombing campaign another month england would have been invaded and the war would have lasted alot longer. My point is that we have a plan in the middle east , and we must stick to it, and never give up. History will judge the U.S. on this war. As in past wars. The truth will come out, top secret material will eventually be released and history will look back on what we are doing with thanks and the liberal media will look back on the bush administration just like they do with Reagan. The liberal media hated Reagan while he was in office to. But know they look back on his terms and call him one of the greatest presidents

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Mike Fields, Akron, Oh — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:39:12 GMT

What kind of wimps are our military academies turning out now adays. It's scary when our military commanders think they know more than our civil leaders. We finally have president that will stand up to a threat that's not going away and we don't have military leaders that can stand with him.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Patti Worley, Huntington Beach, CA — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:40:12 GMT

If the white house would engage in diplomacy, then the military would not have to. If the white house did not engage in illegal wars, then the military leaders would not have to question their "commander's" leadership. If the whitehouse would listen to it's military advisors, the military would be more willing to carry out their orders without questioning them publicly. How many top, well informed military leaders must resign (or be fired) before our "commander in chief" learns that his personal desire for power and profit are not what is best for this country? Well, that's a stupid question because he will never learn, but at least he will not be president for long. Let's just hope we can keep him from declaring war on yet another country before he leaves!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

JIM HAYES, MORRO BAY, CA — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:40:14 GMT

I READ ALL OF THE COMMENTS AND THEY ALL HAVE ONE THING IN COMMON NO MATTER WHICH SIDE YOU ARE ON, EVERYONE IN OUR GREAT COUNTRY SEEMS MAD!!!, UPSET!!! AND DOWN RIGHT PISSED OFF!!! IT IS FLAT OUT TIME FOR SOMEONE TO STEP UP AND START THE BUSH IMPEACHMENT PROCESS AS HE HAS LIED TO US FROM THE GET GO. I AM JUST A HARD WORKING SINGLE FATHER AND FEEL THAT OUR LEADERS DO NOT GIVE A DAM ABOUT THE REST OF US. THE LAST 8 YEARS HAVE PUT A REAL STRAIN ON THE COUNTRY, DOES ANYONE ELSE FEEL LIKE THIS?

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Zemilio, Seattle, WA — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:40:57 GMT

Speak up now or forever lose the PEACE....

Article in Vanity Fair about 6 Generals under Rumsfeld..."The Night of the Generals.
.....(General) Batiste had his chance to do what the generals' critics say they should have done: speak up while still in uniform

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Susan, Indiana — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:41:35 GMT

Once again, if someone disagrees with the president and speaks out they lose their job or they are forced to resign. We are turning more and more into a communtist country.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

mike Seattle, Wa — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:42:18 GMT

LTJG George, thank you sir!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Mitch — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:43:20 GMT

Regarding the comments of the person above who declared that citizens "should read history" rather than be talk-show historians, I fully agree. Our relations with Iran have been on shaky terms since our involvement in that country's affairs beginning in 1953 with Operation Ajax. That was a joint operation between the U.S. military, British MI6 and British Petroleum. The operation resulted in the ousting of a Prime Minister who oversaw a more or less stable (by Middle Eastern standards) country. The operation was a response to Iran nationalizing its oil interests instead of continuing an agreement with BP whereby Iran only received approximately 30% of revenues. (Sound familiar as to why the U.S. may want to invade again?) In light of this country's meddling in other's affairs, it is understandable why (some) Iranians take such an anti-American stance. However anti-American this stance may be, it is not advisable (neither morally nor militarily) to use force to essentially counter disagreement with America's foreign policy decisions/way of life. The tool of diplomacy is better suited to work out disagreements with other countries. (The U.S. created the United Nations, so maybe we should utilize it more often) Some will clamor that Iran is a nuclear "threat." Iran may be developing weapons at the moment (and every sovereign nation has the right to protect itself) but these weapons are a fairly long ways off from being capable of launch. Furthermore, (and this may seem far fetched to some presently) more nuclear weapons in the world may actually be a good thing. This is what Robert McNamara referred to as "MAD" (Mutually Assured Destruction). In reality, Iran really has no reason to launch a nuclear strike against the United States. They don't have "second strike capability" and we do. (Meaning that the U.S. could sustain an initial strike and still be able to respond in kind) So, Iran would be assured that it would be destroyed if it were to launch a strike against the United States. (If not solely due to the response of our allies in NATO, another U.S. born institution)The threat of developing nuclear weapons on the part of Iran is analogous to the situation with the North Koreans. By threatening to develop nuclear weapons, Iran has a hefty bargaining chip which will allow economic aid to become available to its people. If the U.S. and its allies can avert the threat of Iran developing nuclear weapons by supplying aid, then everyone's a winner. The Iranian people will get much needed resources while the government there can proclaim that it scared/defeated the U.S. The obvious benefit to the U.S. is that an unstable middle-Eastern government no longer has nuclear capability.

Additionally, many Americans must also remember that the United States is the only nation (and a "Christian" one at that) to ever use a nuclear weapon. In light of the above mentioned facts (yes facts, NOT speculation on what Iran might do in some far distant future) the best way to resolve whatever conflict may exist with Iran at the moment is through diplomacy. Some people may deem this view as "wimpy", but at the moment neither our economy nor our armed forces can handle the costs of another ill-advised, unprovoked war.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Dick Marley Dewey, AZ. — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:43:44 GMT

We are up to our eyeballs with al-quada in Iraq. The Iranian people for the most part like Americans. I don't understand why the U.S. doesn't help them overthrow the regime that is in place now and form a democratic way of life.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

DB Whiskeyman, Denver, CO — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:45:54 GMT

Stang strong, or stand down. Stand down, and let others rule the world their way. If you unwilling to fight, you will have to fight later---on THEIR terms, and are more likely to lose. If you are willing to fight, you may not be FORCED to fight. This logic, proven by history (and personal experience)is lost on the weak. Few, including my self are PRO-war, but undermining and whining works in the service of those who want America to be brought to its knees, who want YOU personal brought to YOUR knees. You live in a bubble, a privilege envied by the world. If you are not willing to defend that bubble, it WILL break. Not only do cowards die a thousand deaths, they grovel.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Zach, Las Vegas — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:47:33 GMT

Some of these comments are sad. I suggest some of you take a look at the oath that any of us that have served in the military have taken.

You people do not seem to understand how it works. If an Admiral or Generals job requires them to have an opinion, the President will be so kind as to give them their opinion. Someone in the military will not have an opinion that they publicly state that is contrary to that.

All that said .... it seems to me that the Admiral himself has denounced what was published in Esquire. Since the man is leaving the job anyway, if he did in fact think what they had published... why bother saying you do not?

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

rober — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:47:34 GMT

Millitary is always abied by the roll and will never be allawed to play politics. The comander steped out of his place chalanging the president. next step will be a militaru cop.Do we want that he should be fired. If he wanted to get invlve in P{olitics take off the padge and chalange the president 24/7.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

George, Washington State — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:48:00 GMT

As I read the comments above, many appear to imply that Admiral Fallon was the only Pentagon official opposing going to war with Iran. Did those people really read the article? It stated that most of the top Pentagon officials were against it. So how has Fallon's resignation really changed things there? As the others opposing such a war are still there, that also appears to put to rest that he resigned due just to his opposition. In my opinion, nothing would aid those who wish to change Iran from within (which is the best way to go) more than a successful democratic Iraq where the people shared in the oil wealth. But then that would make Bush's Iraq policy a success, an apparent great fear of those on the left--and most certainly those in power in Iran. So let's get out now and guarantee failure--and a far more powerful Iran. Then sometime in the future there will be an even larger war in that area that will cost us far more in American lives and resources.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Paul Hai — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:50:36 GMT

Is war really necessary to keep America economically viable - I do not think so - surely civilised people have better things to do than make war. What the hell is wrong with you all - and how civilised do you think you are!!!??? ----Leave Iran Alone! Let people to live in peace. What is more, America cannot afford war, as we have all noticed.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Jodie, Detroit, MI — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:50:39 GMT

For those who still have blind faith in the leadership of our so called President Bush. Read the information below and take moment to try to understand the grim tactics this regime is putting in place to kill America's democracy, destroy the value of the American economy and then incinerate a large portion of the American population. It's grim and disgusting, and the information is available if you open your eyes to do the research.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SjZymcRfDTs

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0P-hvPJPTi4

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I0da_83BzqM

Naomi Wolf author of "The End of America: Letter of Warning To A Young Patriot"

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Paul, Palm Desert, Ca. — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:50:40 GMT

It seems we need to improve our reading skills. Phrases like "raised speculation", "created a misperception" and "impies" are intentional. There aren't any "yes men" (behind closed doors) at the 4 star rank.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

john robbins phenix city al. — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:50:51 GMT

perhaps you have all forgotten that since we began this there has not been any more attacks on our soil. maybe we should pull out and just wait. see if it is your town that is next. And GOD forbid if we get the muslim president that you all seem to want. It will be the beginning of the end. If your a chritian you know who comes from the seed of ismael.And don't tell me he is a converted christian,because as we know no one is perfect and everyone has lied!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Dave Whitey — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:51:45 GMT

Is this Russia? I dont think it's Russia..Is it?

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

William, Atl Ga — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:54:25 GMT

Phil, Port Angeles Wa,

You are an idiot and you must be a supervisor. Just following orders is a statement for weak minded fools. Yes military personel should follow orders because it is what a command structure is about. But that is also why war rooms operate so all parties can question the order to isolate and strip down all of its weaknesses and is left with the strongest strategy and decision.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

David, Agoura, CA — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:55:10 GMT

Every time Bush opens his mouth about Iran oil prices go up and during his presidency oil prices have quadrupled, many companies associated with Bush and Cheney, Bush was an oil man and Cheney ran Halliburton, have become extremely wealthy as a result of the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, isn't it possible this is all about money? Bush defended Enron during California's energy crisis and, as it turns out, that was manipulated by Enron and several other energy companies. Bush is responsible for more American deaths and cost this country more twenty times as much money then Bin laden did with the World Trade Center attacks.

We’re weaker and far less secure then we were before we went to war with Iraq and we still have not captured Bin Laden but as long as the war continues Bush's allies continue to become wealthier, if money is the real motive behind this then why would he want this to come to an end. Saddam Hussein destroyed Iran in the Iran Iraq war over a period of several years and we were able to destroy Iraq in just a few days, Iran is no threat to us since our Air Force could flatten their entire infrastructure in just a few days. If you think oil prices are high now, what do you think will happen if we attack the second largest producer of oil in the world?

If any of you think this is about keeping America safe from terrorists then why would Bush and Cheney make Valerie Plame’s identity known, she was a CIA agent and spy for the U.S. government so how does outing her make us safer? How many of you know this war has been partially funded by your Social Security? On average so far this war has cost all working adults approx. $10k each and this money was funded by your social security, your taxes have not gone up so where do you think the money’s coming from and, in fact, taxes have gone down for the wealthiest people in this country while government spending has accelerated sharply over the past 7 years.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Karl Wuschenberg — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:55:49 GMT

Unfortunately our country has a VERY BAD reputation "globaly" !! Doesn't seem so that anybody pays any attention to us anymore. One guy on the Orient Express in Europe did ask my friend : Tell me HOW in hell did anybody could ELECT a guy like "bushi boy" ? And TWICE ? What the hell you guys eat in USA to cloud your judgement so badly ? my friend said: I did VOTE for GORE and not for this "dream dancer" !! McCain is nothing else than Bushes EXTENTION ! How dumb can be somebody to vote for the same for an other 4 years ? By that time USA become so litle respected in the world that NOT to many people will do trust us or even do bussiness with us ! What my friend told me I was surprized : Each time when he goes an European vacation LOTS of people do EMIGRATE back to Europe ! This is an other BAD sign for us ! USA was beloved world over ! Since Bush ? We are finished ! I realy hope that our next president will be somebody "who knows what to do" and this person should be HILARY CLINTON ! By all means, WE should give her the CHANCE to prove her self and MAKE also HISTORY and a GOOD ONE ! She will have the BEST ADVISOR money could buy ! DID anybody forget WHAT a sorry SITUATION our country was in, and WAS TURNED ARROUND with a SURPLUS ? Who can forget that one ????

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Phil Zipse, Whippany, New Jersey — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:57:20 GMT

Only years will tell us how much damage this Bush/Cheney administration has dealt our country and only years will show how much pain they will have caused the world. Hooray to Admiral Fallon. He is the true American hero in this voluminous mess that our country finds itself in in the Middle East.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

ken Driessen Hayward Wisconsin — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 00:02:44 GMT

Fallon was honest made sense and must not have rode the revolving door between military and defense contractors long enough to have sold his soul to mammon. Close to 4000 US soldiers dead in combat. They don't count other fatalities, they don't count wounded. The don't count the million Iraq civilians dead. In Bushland your lips must smack when you slurp up the blood of women and children like the smirkie skull and bones Dubbya does. The war is good for the economy becvause it gives people jobs making bombs. Torture is wonderful as long as it is not GW being tortured! It does not matter if military and intelligence experts have said torture does not result in credible useful information. GW Bush likes torture. Watch Blue Print for 9/11 Truth, "How the Towers Fell". They will not let you write n=z here because that is the best word possible to describe GW, and I certainly don't mean New Zealand! If you still like GW after reading htis you are an accomplice to crimes against humanity and nature.

Peace

K

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Al Wolfing, San Diego, CA — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 00:04:05 GMT

As a combat officer, a volunteer, in Vietnam almost 40 years ago I was taught that one had a duty to the Army and to the country to refuse unlawful orders. At that time, the examples given of unlawful orders included the torture of prisoners and the shooting (intentional bombing?) of civilian non-combatants. That simplistic "just-say-no" scenario cannot easily be applied after a lifetime of service but Admiral Fallon has now done what he can and I am sure he is prepared to take the consequences.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Hal Schwartz — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 00:07:15 GMT

This one is in response to Raye in Phoenix.

Talk accomplishes nothing, even to the "death"

Their loyalties lie with their families and their governing party(ies), in that order, I suspect.

Our "leaders" guide us down the path that was revealed so many years ago--perhaps you are too young to remember--,and I quote, in part, from the words of Hermann Goering, President of the Reichstag, Nazi Party, and Luftwaffe Commander in Chief.

"But, after all, it is the leaders of the country who..drag the people along, whether it is a democracy, or a facist dictatorship, or a parliament, or a communist dictatorship. Voice or no voice, the people can always be brought to the bidding of the leaders. That is easy. All you have to do is tell them they are being attacked, and denounce the peacemakers for lack of patriotism and exposing the country to danger. It works the same in any country"

Sound familiar????

Oh yes, the source is http://mindprod.com/politics/patriotism.html

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

PCheb, Kitsap, Washington — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 00:07:40 GMT

Adm Fallon has a point, doesn’t he?

Anyone who has transited the Straits of Hormuz under the cover of darkness & with deceptive-lighting rigged, knows how important it is to hold both sides of the straits.

This ensures people will be free to drive their SUVs to the ‘shop & rob’ to get a pack of smokes.

We've had the west coast in our pockets since the late 80s. Now we have 100 year outposts in Iraq. We’ve got Afghanistan, so we have Iran on both sides.

It's still a long haul to cover all Iran, just to secure the straits. Back in the 80’s when Sadam’s Republican Guard couldn’t beat Iran; we helped him out and he still didn’t whip ‘em!

Gas has cost $4-5 bucks a gallon in Europe for decades. Maybe when it goes over $10 a gallon, America will be ready to send another 6000 to die.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Sokha, Seattle, Wash. — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 00:22:11 GMT

Great man, Admiral! Great man! Thank you.

If you were a YES-man, you would be considered as another Rumseld. But you are not. How noble.

Oh, I almost forgot about honorable Colin Powell. Any idea why quit earlier? Because he realizes his sin after he gave speech at the UN---the speech based on made-up 'facts' before America illegally invaded Iraq. He was guilty yet very smart---too smart to stick around with all the dummies, criminals and war-mongers. Way to go, Powell.

Thank you again, Admiral Fallon. An ethical man you are...

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

john ,MN. — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 00:22:45 GMT

Bush and his fellow (war-people) have been trying to get us into a war with Iran for about a year. Google (911-TRUTH,PainfulDeception,or TakeBack911 ) There is a lot that WE have been LIED ABOUT..

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Samuel Boe — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 00:24:08 GMT

After Iran is destroyed by a nuclear head Then the middle east will be another super state. That is their agenda. Union States of north America will never be the same after that day. We the people are funding this war with our blood sweat and tears by handing over 35% of your hard earned money to the I.r.s We are to blame for what is taking place. we havent taken the time to put down the games, turn of the boob tube, and start studiying. long Live Ron paul!! Bring back the Republic

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

John doe — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 00:28:06 GMT

Stay out of Iran.

So Pres Bush Sr. had a vendetta against Hussein. A family thing.

The Bible says NOT to take up a grudge of your elders, (pay attention
son, get out of the Middle East.)

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

William, Atl — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 00:29:14 GMT

John Kerry said that President Bush, Jr. did not have a plan going in, staying in, and coming out of Iraq. President Bush Jr. campaign distracted and pulled voters from the important issues. We began deciding a candidate based on Swift Boat, and flip-flopping, and other silly stuff instead of capability.

Deception is why Bush got into office in the first place. Have you been happy over the last 8 years? Are you struggling to pay your bills? Have you put off making a doctor’s appointment because you do not have money to pay the Doctor? Can you pay your mortgage or are you one of the 10 million facing foreclosure? So what’s important to you?

Can we vote a candidate based on issues that matter at the start of the day instead of voting on what an election opponent wants to deceive us to think? Come on America wake up.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Samuel Boe — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 00:31:02 GMT

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Dan — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 00:31:36 GMT

wow as I read these posts, I really wonder how many have actually served in the military of this great nation, and also wonder how many have actually traveled beyond our borders and not just to Mexico or Canada but overseas and actually see first hand how other countries are run and their laws and how their people live...yes ladies and gentlemen we do live in the finest country in the world, as such as I read these posts and I do see a lot of anger, sure our President has made some unpoplar choices and yes it is good to have opposing veiwpoints but how about being civil, if you really sit back and think and see things you'll see two parties tearing at each other over their own personal agendas and causing a deep fissure within this great nation...again I do wonder of the people who post and even sat down to read our Bill of Rights, or our Constituion and really understand it, heck I even wonder if our Congress and Senate members have done such...as for Adm.-not General- Fallon was not asked to resign, he is totally right with this magazine article that it would cause a distraction for him in carrying out his day to day duties...to Adm. Fallon, from a retired Navy Vet. thankyou for your service of 41 years may you have Fair winds and Following Seas Admiral God Bless.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

alec mizra , MA — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 00:31:56 GMT

the American people should ask this question, " who is behind the drumbeat to attack Iran?.
it is entirely an Israeli foreign policy to attack Iran.
Iran is moving to become a regional power which will tip the balance of the middle east , Israel enjoys having a NUKE at the moment and bombs any country it wants. unless we as Americans tell Israel to came clean , we have no moral authority to tell others what not to do.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Rigidflexibility, Colorado Springs CO — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 00:32:17 GMT

I find it interesting that everyone is jumping on the bandwagon about how right Admiral Fallon is. Remember MacArthur and his disagreement with President Truman? Military people DO NOT go to the press. If he resigned I'd respect his position a whole lot more. By the way none of us really know what his position is and God only knows whatever he said wouldn't be reported accurately by our media.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

VNAM43 — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 00:42:39 GMT

The US had no real business starting a war w/ Irac (OIL???) or thinking of doing the same in Iran (EVIL???). And please do not mention anything resempling humanitirian reasons or regional stability or our national security. All these terms are excuses for the longest active expansionist foriegn policy in this past century. Not to mention the hipocritical -- watching what has been occuring in many African nations, US involvement in controlling states in SA (a continuing activity agains who now -- communist???), and covert activites in countries worldwide (Laos, Cambodia, Viet Nam -- just a few) while we sleep confortably home at night.

As to those blind and misguided soldiers and officers who dare to say we are there to only DO OR DIE all I can say is I'm sorry you clain any kind of inner strength and that you have the historical perspective of a pea. Gentlemen please open your eyes. Saying that we shold not question and obey orders is what the Nazis claimed during WWII and we all know the results of obeying their commander.

Do not mistake my writings as a weakness of character. As an ex-combatant (disabled and still seeing my body counts) trained in aspects of PSYOPS I

understand what is happening here. The Admiral made his decision -- it is not for you to judge him unless you can cast the first stone. He was right to call in question a leaning towards a war with Iran. (How many war fronts do you think we can support without caving in on our own?) His error was to make his position publicly known. The media would have found out what was brewing eventually. Only now we have one less warrior of strategic value to the country to keep this administration straight.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Fatollah — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 00:45:09 GMT

How wonderful to read about a new war, the coming war! How many lives will be lost in this war? Or will they be counted as collateral damage? Muslim fundamentalists who deserved to die? The comment section is especially a joy to read! Everybody in Iran knows that Ahmadinejad is not calling the shots! He is a nobody! I hate the ruling and cunning Mullahs in Iran! Nonetheless, any military strikes or a full scale attack on my country by Uncle Sam, then I will know who my enemy is! Last time, I checked 15 out of 19 - 9/11 hijackers were from Saudi Arabia. The rest from other allied Arab countries! And no, Iranians are not Arabs! You better get your facts straight before talking/writting about starting a new war or even supporting one!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Glenn Cahill — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 00:49:59 GMT

Although it is popular to "pile-on" with comments on stories like these in order to make your political point, we need to stop the rhetoric. Our politicians don't seem to know how, maybe it's time the people take the lead. Whatever your position on the war, a standing General cannot openly criticize his country or it's commander-in-cheif. He has internal avenues and opportubities to state his opinion. The press is no place for it. The first rule of soldiering is that you take orders and carry them out without question. If you can't do that then you shouldn't be in the all-volunteer military and it is time to resign, hopefully with respect and dignity. If you cannot control yourself then you resign with not-so-much dignity. You cannot be at war and have division in the military. In the press yes, never in the ranks.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Burt — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 00:51:54 GMT

Who should you try to please more, God or the President? If you please the president and displeas God...then what? Bush says he believes in God, but his actions just don't seem to show that. Maybe Fallan has drawn the line and looking to answer to higher authority. Good Job.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Carstie, Weme, Minnesota — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 01:00:22 GMT

The Feds (I do not consider the stooges of the Banksters to be America) have military bases in well over a hundred countries across the world. Tell me something. Who the H. appointed the Untied Skates of a Miracle to be Global RoboCop? Unlike civilized industrialized countries, the US does not have a national healthcare system. We have virtually NO passenger rail service as gasoline prices make long distance travel harder and harder for most Americans. Yet, the US spends as much on its military as all other countries in the world combined!
Now der Chimpenfuhrer and Deadeye Dick want to attack Iran and Madman McCain courts the Zionist campaign dollar by singing "Bomb, bomb, bomb Iran". It is clear that in the US, the pirates have taken over command of the ship of state and it is waay too bad Admiral Fallon is no longer on board to steer them straight.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Sgt Bob USAF (Ret) — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 01:02:01 GMT

I would imagine that no one will accept the job of CINC CENTCOM unless they are onbaord with the Iran War that IS coming. Bush & Cheney want it. Cheney is running around looking for Arab support. It will happen and Congress won't do squat, left or right. They have totally abrogated the role of check and balance. There is a reason nations are pulling away from supporting us anywhere in the world in ongoing operations. As far as Iran having a Nuke, they won't have a delivery vehicle that can hit us. This is about the AIPAC/PNAC crowd getting the United States to fight others wars regardless of any expediency/necessity/constitutionality.
Attacking Iran will expand and extend the greatest strategic failure in United States history.
Command responsibility, specifically the Yamashita standard and Medina standard demand military commanders openly and overtly act to prevent war crimes, to include wars of aggression. So Admiral Fallon did his duty. He spoke out to let the rest of us know that Naval officers still carry a set, and that our politicians are fools. Of course, we can bomb Iran to oblivion, but they have such a dispersed program, we won't get it all. What are we to do then? When we kill several hundred Russian technicians at the reactor they are building, do you think Ivan is going to sit it out?
Someone mentioned that behind closed doors, those of flag rank express their opinions freely. So do the enlisted, the warrants, the company and field grade officers... We do not check our brains at the door. We do however often retire when we do not support the program. Officers get more latitude in this regard.
My firmest salute to the Admiral.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Real Burnout Spokane, Wa — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 01:03:46 GMT

This administration is nuts, and if you don't see it, you should get help. Bush/Cheney took us into this mess and now want to spread it around a little by going to war with another country. I hope Congress is smart enough to head this off, somehow. I'd love to see both of them impeached, and jailed for their actions. The cost of this war is just too damned high, in both $$ and lives. They just found a huge oil deposit in Canada, do we attack them next??? I don't believe that we should go to any more wars for a while, and change our elected officials, all of them who voted with this administration would be a great place to start. Let's give them a taste of "People Power"..... Vote'm all out. I'm a Vet so I have earned the right to express myself.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

John Castle, Laughlin, NV — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 01:14:28 GMT

Peace is not achieved by war. And, on this battleground we have made, we are NOT the good guys. Is that so hard to imagine...
How can we say with a straight face that any country on Earth would be more dangerous with nuclear armaments than are we? We are the only country to have actually used them on innocent civilians!
We told the world that Saddam was evil for using chemical weapons on his populace, then we went over there and saturated their land with depleted uranium! Can you imagine a worse voice for moderation in this insane, war-torn world? Here's what you GOP mouthpieces need to learn and remember: It's not who you are, where you're from, or what religion you advocate that makes you right. It's wisdom and compassion. Power alone is not sufficient.
It's by relinquishing those precious attributes that we've been reduced to our current estate. We've made of ourselves a Tyrant.
The real danger to America, the real threat, is not terrorism, nor any other country or government on the planet. The Danger to our continued existence is right here at home in the good old USA. The very real danger to you, your family, and your livelihood is right here. In fact, the biggest danger to the entire world is right here.
May God bless us, and give us individually the courage needed to effect change here at home before it's too late.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Lee, Washington DC — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 01:17:24 GMT

Listen, this is not an issue of whether or not you agree or disagree with the man's opinion. A founding principle of the US armed forces is respect for the chain of command, and an obligation not to become involved in politics. These principles are in place to ensure the US does not become a bannana republic, vulnerable to the whims of military leaders. They are one of the most sacred trusts the military has, and military leaders take it very seriously. The statements attributed to the Admiral cross this line. This is why you see shock from members of the military, and why he had to resign.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Terry Blackburn Leland, NC — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 01:19:19 GMT

God save us from George Bush and Dick Cheney

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Joseph G, Fort Worth, TX — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 01:20:14 GMT

It always amuses me to hear about this "unpopular war" - because all wars are unpopular - usually from people who don't have what it takes to stand up and serve in the first place. Most of the folks that comment have no idea what sacrifice is about. There is no member of the military or government that WANTS to go to war... but the smart ones are the ones that will when it's required.
Someone mentioned our stretched and stressed military. They didn't mention, though, that this president inherited LESS than half the military assets that his predecessor did... and we can't build it back up to the size it needs to be without authorization by Congress - who are too busy stealing money for their own pet projects to approve its use for one of the few reasons cited in the Constitution (a Standing Army)...
If you call someone your friend, and let others take advantage of them, and all you do is avert your eyes - you are not a friend. If you lead a country, and you acknowledge an ally or a principle - and you let your allies be overrun or the principles you claim, be devastated - you are not an ally.
I thank God daily that former Vice-President Gore wasn't the one elected to lead the nation in these times. He's been scoffing at the idea of dangerous international terrorism long before he stood on the trial of Col. Ollie North and mocked his fear of Osama bin Laden.
Admiral - thank you for your service to the country, God bless you - and remember that those of us who serve(d) are bound by the UCMJ not to make statements / give interviews without the permission of our seniors. Your senior is the Commander-in-Chief, sir.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

johnnie boy....USA — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 01:26:47 GMT

you bunch of left wing radical wimps. go surrender. i hope you get osama (or what ever his name is) as president so we can bow down to the muslims. he is so beholden to his muslim relatives that he will sell out this country. i hope you lefties are the first the muslims come after. i know you will not have a means to protect your selves because you are scarred to be armed....wimps and traitors each one of you. slime balls!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Mike, Keller, TX. — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 01:27:09 GMT

If Iran ever gets close to having a nuclear weapon,Isreal will attack and the U.S. will come to the aid of Isreal,know matter who is President. Iran is in control. If they insist on trying to have nuclear weapons, there will be a war and the U.S. will be involved. The only question is will we fight to win or try to appease the Islamic world as usual.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Murdoc Toller — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 01:32:24 GMT

It's ironic...we used to have civilian leadership that had to keep senior military officers in line (think Patton, MacArthur), now we have a senior military official that is trying to keep a war mongering civilian leader in line.

BTW, to clarify, to Donald Miller of Greensboro, he can't condemn publicly his commander and chief, he would be liable for any number of violations under the Uniformed Code of Military Justice.

I respect Admiral Fallon and am grateful for 41 years of dedicated service.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Ben Lineberry, Spartanburg, SC — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 01:33:04 GMT

Ok, the Left wingers are playing baseball so deep in leftfield, that Barry Bonds would have a hard time hitting a "juiced-up homer" over their left-field fence.
Now let's go back to 1979. American embassy personnel in Tehran were held for 444 days. What type of message did we send. Someone planned to sit in the Rose Garden and mul over the crisis at hand. That'll keep 'em guessing. Yeah, sure! This led to a failed rescue attempt, which more than likely cost Carter the 1980 election.
I saved a political cartoon from 1981 that had a pointed message. In the cartoon, you can see a number of Arabs (could have been Iranians) standing near a shack and an oasis. One of the culprits is holding a book entitled "HOW TO TAKE HOSTAGES." But at the bottom of the cartoon reads the line...."what worked one time, might not work the next time!" In the background is a horizon filled with B-52s.
This message was being dropped by Reagan staffers prior to the swearing in ceremony in 1981. Well, it worked. The only thing is, we didn't follow up. They started the mess and we sent the wrong message.
Of course, we had to fight them again in the late 1980s, with the so-called "Tanker War" to protect Kuwaiti tankers. Then, when we sent Marines into Lebanon, and their barracks were blown up. We sent the wrong message again. We got out of Dodge. Hey, if you hit America. They might not respond.
Now we are beset with an up and coming Iranian power that wants bring back the aura and power of old Persia. To add fuel to the fire, the Fundamentalists inside of Iran want to be perceived as the true leaders of the Islamic faith. They whip up their anti-west rhetoric with attcks against the Great Satan (U.S.) and the little Satin (Israel). In the past few months, we've seen those swift boats ratchet-up the crisis level with thier figure eights near our naval craft. Needless to say, these boats weren't practicing for the summer ski shows near Miami Beach. The crisis level has been up since 1979, and it isn't going away any time soon.
Sure, the left-wingers applaud Adm. Fallon. But, in a sense, he is right. At the present, we are maxed-out to the hilt, military-wise. I don't believe 'Texas Ranger" President Bush is going to go off the deep end. No matter how hard the left attempts to paint him as a warmonger. I guess TR had his share of 'left wingers' when his fleet was plying the waters of the Caribbean and across the Big Pond. The 'Big Stick' policy is needed even today. Especially, in this era when a country is dealing with fanatical jihadists.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

bill payne — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 01:39:01 GMT

-----Original Message-----
From: Notes_Notification@discovery.com
[mailto:Notes_Notification@discovery.com]On Behalf Of
Discovery_eSubmissions@discovery.com
Sent: Tuesday, March 11, 2008 8:29 AM
To: bpayne37@comcast.net Subject: How The Iraq/Iran War Got Started
Dear William,

Thank you for your recent program submission to the Military Channel. We appreciate your patience while your submission went through our review process.

We evaluate submissions based in part on strategic objectives, inventory need, production values, appropriateness of the material, and program length. After a complete review of your material, taking into account the programming needs for our upcoming schedules and the money available for production, we have decided not to pursue your program submission at this time. We feel that our current programming goals and priorities do not reflect those of your program proposal.

We appreciate your giving us the opportunity to review this proposal. If you are successful in your production efforts, we invite you to submit the completed program for acquisition consideration.

Thank you for your interest in the Military Channel. We hope you will consider us for future projects.

Kind regards,

Lauren Horvath
Military Channel Program Development

http://www.prosefights.org/thecanadian/thecanadian.htm#gotstarted

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Richard Burgoine — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 01:48:00 GMT

If Collin Powell had half the guts that Admiral Fallon has we wouldn't be in this mess. He knew damn well the intel on WMD was faulty and peddled it anyway.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Jim Jones — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 02:03:39 GMT

we are nothing more then a poppet state, just ask our next president,why are they going in Europe and Middle East next week? just maybe they need to hear it in person who is the boss?

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

David D. Murray — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 02:30:25 GMT

Another aspect of this is the relationship between Admiral Fallon and the Commander in Iraq, General Petreaus. Admiral Fallon's dislike of Petreaus[The good Admiral considers the General to be an ambitious ass-kisser]isn't going to win him friends in the current Administration, who consider Petreaus to be their "golden-haired boy", for his policies that have reduced[temporarily]the attacks on U.S. troops and created at least an illusion of improving conditions in that benighted country. There are more than a few Officers inside and outside the Pentagon who would be delighted if Petreaus failed, but they are much more circumspect about pissing down Petreaus' pantleg than Admiral Fallon apparently was.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Governor — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 02:42:32 GMT

Yap all you want lefties, but the fact is we're going to take Irans.

Duh! Of course not! Even their Premier Akhma-doofuss-ajad knows we're a bunch of wimps and he can nuke anything he wants.

So quit worrying about it.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Joe Marion Ohio — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 02:53:09 GMT

Just a note I have seen alot of people on here talk about intelligence. Have they forgotten what they just read before responding here. The guy is not a General! He is an Admiral his title deserves your respect at least enough that you get it right. He was in the Navy not the Army. Adm. Fallon I repsect you and Thank You for your Service its my hope that you enjoy your retirement you certainly have earned it Sir.

As for the other parts of this discussion I agree Iran cant be solved with just a military option, however contingencies must be made in the case that Iran would start to fuel a ICBM to stop the use of nuclear warfare, entering another cold war however is not the real answer either. I think if the US is going to play big brother in the nuclear community it should practice what it preaches and sign the non-proliferation treaty at NATO that we have contiued to defiantly refuse to sign. We spend biliions and even trillions of dollars to develope smart weapons and strategic missle defense systems. Do we still need to live in a world where we have the capability to wipe out all of civilization with just three nuclear weapons? I am not nieve enought to think that Iran is developing nuclear energy just for civil use, I was around a TV in the 80's when the fundementalist were hijacking every plane they could get their hands on. The fundementalist over there have never known peace or prosperity why would they work towards it now. They have 100's of years of brainwashing and violence as their only direction. But you put enough contingency strike teams in and around Iran you can control the situation so that a ICBM would never make it off the ground. There is also the oportunity for surgical strikes if they get to close to actually having a nuclear weapon. The point here is there are options other than an all out war that we could not militarily sustain with current world conditions.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Tom Wing, San Diego, CA — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 02:54:04 GMT

Pre-emptive wars have actually been approved by the American public throughout our history. Examples:

Tripolitan war of 1801
Algerian war of 1802
Generically, the wars against the Barabary Pirates in the first decade of the 1800's
Mexican War of 1847
Spanish War of 1898
Multiple invasions of Caribbean and Central American nations in the 20th century
Grenada invasion of 1982
Other "small wars" too numerous to mention

For Lee Shreve: as a former military guy, we have to obey lawful orders. If we disagree with the policy, our senior leaders have two choices: resign, or follow the orders. ADM Fallon is a man of honor, and I think you've seen his choice.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

frank horton,jacksonville arkansas — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 02:57:03 GMT

what the hell. does every one in d.c(white house) not see the fact that our millitary is all most crimanilly stretched thin. could a war with iran really be in the american publics best intrest? iraq and afghanistan and we have advisers in 28 or 29 different countrys. how much greed is enough? did some one blow their cork and just forget the white coats? this country can not afford another war. where are the adults who are suppose to call time out? HEY, mister bush do not start a third war. after all YOU won't be in office to finish it will you?

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Kevin J. Gaughan, Seattle, WA — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 03:00:03 GMT

My concern here is the risk of a possible global escalation to WWIII. Right now, we are not the most liked country in the world and we used to be the one every country or most looked up to. I spent 22 years in the Army Airborne Infantry and retired in 1999. More than anyone else a soldier plans for war but prays for peace.

Granted, President Bush was handed a soup sandwich on his watch as President having to deal with 911 and no other President has had to deal with an attack on our country like he has since the attack on Pearl Harbor.

I voted for Bush and still believe I am happier that he was in office during 911 than I would have been with the democrat. This is not a slight on democrats, just my opinion.

My overall concern with Iran is its ties with Russia, and anytime you have to deal with them in this type of scenario you risk the possibility of WWIII and a strike against Iran could trigger that. In no way do I say we should back down when threatened but right now there is still diplomacy.

An attack on Iran could also cause the Arab states to collectively turn on Israel, and make no mistake Israel has a minimum of 300 nuclear weapons and would use them if threatend.

Of course we need to protect ourselves and our interests overseas, but right now we just have some nut case running Iran just like we have in North Korea. Granted, China helps in keeping North Korea in check but Kim Jong Il is more concenred with staying in power than he is of waging war.

Iran is a threat, but we need to do everything possible before going to war. Striking nuclear facilities with missiles, planes and bombs is just like putting troops in Iran because once you neutralize those sites then chaos is going to break out in the middle east.

The one thing I am certain of is that sooner or later Israel will strike Iran if Iran continues to go after creating weapons grade plutonium. I believe Iran will have the capability of making a bomb within the next 4-7 years, maybe sooner. No way is Israel going to allow them to continue this without striking so it is in our best interests to turn this off as soon as possible but if Israel can wait a while then surely we can.

Today, I paid $3.55 to fill my tank. If we attack Iran, gas will then cost $8.00 a gallon. The clock is getting closer to mid night and we better figure out how to turn it back before it is too late.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Boo — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 03:04:39 GMT

Fallon had no business publicly disagreeing with the commander in chief. Last I read there is still civilian control over the military unless you would prefer to live in a dictatorship.

Idiots.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Jane Doe, Hemphill, Texas — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 03:09:08 GMT

Has anyone given a thought as to which Country has used The Bomb--ever? And which has the largest arsenal of nuclear weapons, and planning more? And, is it not true that Israel has the bomb, and no one is protesting? Pakistan has the bomb, India has it, Korea is planning one--possible has one. Israel is not saying how many it has, but no one is bothering. Why only Iran being singled out as being forbidden? To protect Israel? Surely they can't reach this Country. Now Bush and his cronies have decided that Iran must leave off, or possibly be bombed by U.S.---or perhaps Israel will do the deed for us. Has anyone thought out what the results will be? Do you think that Russia or China will stand by and watch that take place? Not a chance. Then WW3 will begin, and we will be the losers--big time. Our troops are scattered all over Hell's half acre. We couldn't protect our own citizens. So, all of you in favor of a strike against Iran, do some heavy thinking. Gen. Fallon is right--he is the only one with enough "Guts" to tell the truth, and gets the heave-ho for it. Agree with Bush, or get out. It's that simple. As for the Constitution, when has it mattered to this administration? The "Decider-in-Chief" apparantly thinks he --Or should I say "He"--as in the Almighty--is above such a thing as "Just a piece of paper".

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Paul T. Houston, Tx — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 03:10:34 GMT

Wasn't Fallon a Liberal-Dove left over from the Clinton military purges??? I am pretty sure he is and that makes a lot of sense why he's not an agressive Commander. Clinton tried to "Clean Up" the military so he could GUT the military to make his budget look good and to pasify the anti-war groups that did not like our EVIL military

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Looey Munn, Roundup, MT — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 03:26:56 GMT

Seems to me nearly everybody is taking the magazine article as not only the gospel truth, and gleefully stomping on the President, whom, you know, had to administer whatever legislation Congress passes. Bush cannot make laws, just has to carry them out...so why are folks not blaming those in Congress who voted for the War, and who have voted to continue funding it also??

Just remember, had not the magazine chosen to write an article full of innuendo, and the media start making a big thing of it, and expanding on it, the miliary leader you like would still be there as check and balance.

Shot your own toes off, Liberals!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

DeeDee. Mesa AZ — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 03:36:32 GMT

The Iranians are NOT starving and dying in the streets. What a ridiculous statement to make, Mr. Cooper. Have you ever been to Iran? Have you seen these people starving and dying in the streets?

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Gerald Harmon, Lexington, SC — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 03:37:13 GMT

I do not understand where some of you come from or get your information. I served 32 years in the military and any officer making a comment to the press as Fallon did was punished. His comments have caused the terrorists in other countries to look at us as a country in great disaray making them bolder.
If I ever disagreed with something, I knew how to use the chain of command to clear things up. When in the military you do not spout off to anyone outside the chain of command. That is exactly what is happening to our military today and has cost us lives in Iraq and Afganistan. All the leaks about goings on here and in the war zone being leaked to the news media and we all know how the media will keep telling the bad things over and over.
The General should be punished. His words will probably cause more lives to be lost in the war zones. All because he has told the world he disagrees with the president and he is a General in the military. All he needed to do was follow the chain of command to voice his disagreement and I am sure his words would have been heard.
The news media has been hurting the war in Iraq and Afganastan since their beginning and still are every time they can get some bad news. The General just fed this frenzy.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Karen, Tallahassee, FL — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 03:40:47 GMT

There is a huge disconnect between this administration and just about anyone with any sense. As with so many things, there's probably a lot more to the story than we know or might ever know, but it takes courage to stand up for what one believes in, even if it means taking a hit. This administration will never comprehend what it has done in Iraq and how it has created problems that are likely to be around for generations to come. They've learned nothing from their myriad mistakes. And, sadly, Bush and his minion Cheney (or is it the other way around?) will never be held accountable for the incredible amount of damage they have done here and abroad. The best we have is people like Adm. Fallon who are willing to say NO MORE.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

For the Love of Reason! — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 03:47:27 GMT

To: Phil, Lee, Willard, and John Doe:

Grow up, your attitudes are infantile. I have served a twenty-year career in the US military, and have read extensively about the use and misuse of military power: Yes, fools, we won nearly all the battles in Vietnam, but that didn't mean a damn thing! Go Read 'The Sling and the Stone' by Col Thomas X. Hammes, USMC. Per Osama Bin Laden's prediction of our reaction to Al Quaida's treachery, the United States is bleeding itself dry in an endless quagmire...we are burning oil like it is going out of style (it is), we are killing and wounding our own people for no gain in the end, we are bankrupting our future (the dollar is heading straight into the toilet), and we are fomenting a hatred against the USA that will make the pre- 9-11 hatred from our enemies pale in comparison. We are not the damn World Police, you retarded stooges! Rome over-extended and crumbled and so will we if we stake our future solely on our military might. Go ahead and vote for that senile doofus McBush and get us another 100 years of Iraq War (it'll only be 50 years since the oil will run out by then anyway).

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Homero Tucson Arizona — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 03:57:22 GMT

God, lets hope Bush doesn't start another war before his term is up just like Bush Sr. did..who sent our military into Somalia right before he left office and left the mess to Clinton to handle. Bush Jr. has done enough damage as it is.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

John A — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 03:58:18 GMT

for some reasons president Bush did not get good advise from his advisors before to go to war with Iraq. the problem was Iran in the first place, the idea of exporting anti-Americanism and exproting terrorisim started with Ghomaini, before him world was more in peace. Mr. Bush should of change the regim in Iran first before going to war with Iraq, and having a strong and friendly friend next door getting rid of Saddam would been alot easier.
Joh A from Seattle, WA

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Karl Tucheck, Tacoma, Wash. — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 04:06:06 GMT

F.D.R. & Harry Truman were the last true American Dems. During WW2 they silenced the military,sensored the press,used atomic weapons,had POW'S in camps and also executions of the POW'S and some American military personel. Rationed just about everything to the civilian population nary a complaint. During war the American people had enough common sence to allow our elected leaders to make war decisions without interference. WE WON
[WW3] Today to many of our people seem to think they are more capable to make decisions of war than the people we've elected to do this job. WE'RE LOSING

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Jeffrey S. Kinder Shelburne, MA — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 04:06:56 GMT

First and foremost, the Admiral served at the pleasure of his Commander in Chief; not the other way around. There is a chain of command with a civilian at the top for a reason, without that safeguard we could easily end up with a military dictator.
If he disagreed with his orders he had 2 choices retire or follow the orders, he did the honorable thing and retired.
As far as Impeaching our President and our VP, I'm all for it. Let's schedule the hearings for the same day we try Nancy Pelosi, Harry Reid, and half of Washington for Treason.
Oran's Dictionary of the Law (1983) defines treason as: "...[a]...citizen's actions to help a foreign government overthrow, make war against, or seriously injure the [parent nation]."
I believe threatening to block funding for our Military while they are deployed in a hostile location more than qualified as a violation of the trust the troops put in our elected officials to provide them with the "tools" of war and gave aid and comfort to the enemy.
Voting to bring our troops home is a different story.
Ron Paul said: "A clear decision to leave would prompt a wait and see attitude in Iraq, a de facto cease fire, in anticipation of our leaving, the perfect time for the Iraqi factions to hold their fire on each other and on our troops and just possibly begin talking with each other."
Our nations best hope lies in REALLY breaking with partisan politics and Drafting Ron Paul on a Libertarian platform.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

James Dough Chicago — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 04:24:40 GMT

Our President, who had trouble showing up for weekend service during Viet Nam, who for five years has committed our people to multiple rotations in Iraq and Afganistan, now actively considers war with Iran?
Colin Powell dutifully served one term as Sec of State and bailed out. Three and four star generals,who have spent their adult lives serving our country, refused to serve as Army Chief of Staff under Bush & Rumsfeld. The CENTCOM commander walks away today. Our top military people are speaking to us, and we aren't listening. Bush and Cheney are playing war on a theoretical, macro level, bankrupting our country morally and financially. They never learned the lessons of Viet Nam-support the troops no matter what, don't fight a political/limited war, and let the military run the war. They are in above their heads, and only part of our country is paying the price. Perhaps we should bring back the draft, no college deferments allowed, to put a end to the war. Very few people in Washington or on Wall Street would subject their offspring to war with Bush as commander in chief.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Tv Man ,Houston,Texas — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 04:31:25 GMT

As Iread thorugh yhr whole thread,most comments were to impeach Bush or that he is an idiot.I agree with most comments,however Bush did not declare war Congress did with a 98% approval.If you want to blame someone blame all the congress Democrats and Republicans who voted for war.
Lets not forget it is we the citizens of thUSA who keep putting all these stupid people in Congress who spend half thier time in office trying to get re-elected. I say VOTE THE BA-----DS OUT.Do not vote for an incumbent.No one should be allowed to stay in a congressional seat for 25 years and get all that power and clout

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Tim Harris — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 04:32:27 GMT

The problem most everyboby is overlooking,is that our GOV. is totally owned and operated by pure GREED!!! Anyone who doesn't see that is blind. Our GOV. could care less about american lives,or threats.They only care about who's making money! As long as the Rich&BigBuisness are reporting 40billon$ profits,all those lives are worth every red cent too our GOV. Does anyone out there today really think your voice makes a differance,wake up!! With the way our GOV. has talked,treated,and responded too everyone in this country & other nations, DO we really have a right too wonder why there are so many people around the world that would rather see us all DEAD! Our so called elected Gov. has killed 90% of our own middle class,they have cost us Millons of jobs,they have killed & injurded 10's of thousands of our millitary,they are turning the U.S.A. into a third world country, but as long as the profits keep rolling in and the rich are making money our GOV. is doing what is needed to keep America SAFE! Or at least that is what they say they are doing,thank GOD they aren't doing anything too hurt regular americans! I served 7yrs. in the millitary under Reagan and i am proud too have done so. I have not seen anyone in our GOV. who actually cares about America more than money since he left office. Finally if we as Americans will not start making our own GOV. care about us, it really makes no differance how many countries our GOV. goes to war with. The rich will survive, and the rest of us will only die anyway! Something too think about and hopefully start talking about before its too late!!!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Joe Johnston, La Crescenta,Ca. — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 04:57:21 GMT

This is the wrong time for Admiral Fallon to leave us.We still need his voice and good judgement to stop Bush and Cheney,those two crazy morons.I'll bet all you people that voted for Bush and Cheney are happy now!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Joe Johnston, La Crescenta,Ca. — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 04:57:21 GMT

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Chiodos — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 05:11:15 GMT

I want to give a nice round of applause to all the left wingers/socialists/media. The United States doesn't have to do anything about Iran because Israel will not allow Iran to obtain a nuclear weapon.

By the way, for those of you who think our forces are strectched too thin, you're wrong: our Navy is just sitting in the Persian Gulf... waiting.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Cranker,,,, Indy IN. — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 05:11:44 GMT

Frist we really do nned to keep at least one oil country on our side doesnt matter if it leads to another conflict. can you even imagine , the cost of oil if we lose the saudia;s , know the E.U will rise and rise and poor u.s.a will be left at buying oil at 200 a barrell . some times we do wrong to protect our spoiled way of life.. yet let's not forget 911 not ever or ever , some one had to pay or few more country's would have tried similar things, we could not have stood for that , and iran is one place that would fire a nuclear weapon with out any remorse what so ever , wouldnt we want to be wrong twice rather than right once. 41yrs is a long time to serve your country with out feeling so many deaths on your hands . Its no wonder he got resentfull and spoke out

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

NEWPOP, BIRMINGHAM,AL. — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 05:11:52 GMT

Apparently this President,and his vice are not intune with a miltary tradition:Tell your commander the truth,even if you do so at the risk of falling out of favor,lives are at stake.From a vet who is tired of seeing our children maimed,and killed. A war with Iran is not in the best intrest of this country or it's people.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Gee Bee, Bad Axe, Michigan — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 05:16:38 GMT

Admiral Fallon has a right to voice his opinions on the grave national issue of dealing with Iran. America is well served by this military professional by having him express his views on Iran.
Actually I believe he is required to resign ( retire). He is performing his legal military obligation to not become involved in a pre-emptive war on Iran. He is required by Military Law and the Genevia Convention to do this. To attack Iran in a pre-emptive strike, waging an Aggressive War on a nation at peace, Fallon would become a War Criminal.
Bush and Cheney have long since crossed that Rubicon. They are both War Criminals for their pre-emptive self serving Wars on Afganistan and Iraq, neither of which attacked us on Sept 11, or declared war on us.
I believe that now ( March 11, 2008 ) Bush and Cheney are either finalizing plans to take out Iran directly, or are co-ordinating plans with Israel to do it.
I do not live in Israel nor am I Jewish, but Israel and it's people have the absolute right to decide what they have to do to deal with Iran.
The United States is a close ally of Israel, and no matter the decision, will have to stand with it's close ally.
After all, Adolph Hitler clearly stated his intentions before WW11 and the Holocaust. The world did not take him seriously. The Jewish people ARE taking the threats of Iran seriously, as they must.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Barry Evans, Healdsburg, Ca — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 05:37:30 GMT

Weakness of the arguements presented and the need for Cognitive Therapy is easily seen in most of the comments made here by those who have been easily swayed the the media propaganda machine. I find nothing unusual about Fallon's departure, as he does not have a historical or grasp of the potential of his less than stellar approach to the reasonable manner for a military leader to address issues and concerns. As with Ron Paul, Nancy Pelosi, Harry Ried and Clinton's Nato Commander, who ran for President, these attitudes are killing our troops needlessly and causing more suffering for the citizens of Irag than Bush's Iraqi policy. Embolding the enemy of democratic freedoms in time of war is treason.

The radical Islamists are coming for you, and you all are going to get your deserved reward. Death and repression of your freedoms of thought and action. You think the street gangs are dangerous. They are angels when compared to the radical Islamists.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Carol Anderson — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 06:29:12 GMT

I don't think that any "one" commander or even more, should be trying to decide in the "public" arena what we should or should not do when it comes to this nations defense. There have been too many "open" meetings, that were supposed to be confidential already. I'm starting to question the intelligence of the populice that seem to think "everything" needs to be public! You already know that no matter which direction we go, that not EVERYONE will be happy! We have free elections to elect our leaders. From our representatives, senators, congressmen, president etc.. They need our support, ideas & feedback ofcourse, or how can they represent us, but they also need to be able to perform their jobs to the best of their abilities without letting everyone in the "world" know what the next move will be. We have diplomats, let them do that job, and let the military and FBI-CIA etc. do theirs privately. We have watch dog committees to ensure things are above board, but even these people forget what "secrecy" is all about. The other team will win if they know what all your plays are going to be! But, this is no game! If we do not stand up against our aggressers now, when would you suggest?? After the fact, when half the U.S. or Europe or Africa (just examples) is gone from a neuclear explossion and the other half is dying from that blast? I do believe in negotiations, however, it does take more than one side to have them! Tell me how you reason with someone that denies that the Jewish genicide ever took place, or, tells another country that they should be wiped from the face of the earth! I would like for the Iranian people to be able to change their government-even more, I'd like the Iranian government to change for their people! They're the ones with the power to do it, and if they care about their citizens they will go in that direction. I defend anyone who wants to speak their mind, however, I shall speak mine as well. If my "Boss" tells what my job is and how it is to be done, well-he is the boss & if I don't agree then I am free to go on my way if I wish. I also know that if I had ever disrespected or failed to do as asked by an employer that the end result would have probably been the end of my career at that particular place, and that is what I would have expected as well. So if indeed he (the Commander) is asked to resign because of his innappropriate "public" comments, then I would assume he knew this would be the direction his life would take and who is to blame for that. Perhaps he knew, and this is what he wanted. Guess we'll have to wait for his next "article" to see .

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

David Ross, Billings, Montana — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 06:31:54 GMT

I thank Bill and Silverwolf for some thoughtful words. War with Iran will not solve our problems even though it may become necessary.
The time and perhaps the opportunity to do what was right has long past. Instead we have chosen as a nation repeatedly to do what was only in our best interests: a devastating flaw in leadership.
To do what it right many times in the short term can be costly (ie WW!!) but in the long term bring us and our children the peace, prosperity and goodwill we seek (ie the 30 years after WWII).
But we have lost our way. We think as a people only of that which will serve our immediate interests and pleasure. We no longer know what is right to do. We all have our opinion, but we have no basis on which to judge whether our opinion is right. Because the basis we choose may be different next year. For there are no absolutes. We believe it to be true therefore it must be true and others who oppose us are wrong.
Only the circumstances can determine what is right and therefore all of us are "right": An impossible canundrum of which there is no way out.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Ken Paul, Kent, Wash — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 06:39:46 GMT

Based upon the outcome of this fiasco and Admiral Fallon's response to the Washington Post that the Esquire Article was "poison pen stuff," the media should not be suprised when the level of trust between the media and the military which was forged in the crucible of the Global War on terrorism disintegrates. Blame this erosion of trust on the self-serving media that will say anything to create controversy. Good luck getting any semblance of candid responses in the future. You did it to yourselves. I can't wait to read your future drivel about how the military is overly secretive and non forthcoming.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Retired Educator, Dallas,Texas — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 06:48:48 GMT

One does not disagree with His Imperial Majesty!!! Only Yes men need apply. After all, this is not the Constitutional America that we all wish it would be. It's time to cut the purse strings. If the USAF wants to buy foreign, then cut their budget by $35b. See if they are willing to shift funds for that!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Pacifc Cruiser — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 06:54:31 GMT

Admiral Fallon, I too salute you and regret you leaving the service. Our top politicians, Cheney, Bush and his cronies as well as untold past politicians have damaged the world to no end by interfering with our top military strategists. It is sad to see the Admiral retire and to have Bush and Cheney continue the create chaos in the world

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

John, Omaha, NE — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 06:59:07 GMT

Military commanders have a duty to their commanders and to their subordinates. By the time someone reaches the flag ranks they are expected to be able to think for themselves.
If Fallon had voiced his disagreements AFTER retiring, his comments would have been dismissed - just as the comments by other retired flag-grade officers.

A weak mind cannot tolerate dissent and must be surrounded by sycophants - at all costs whether they are counted in blood or treasure.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

A. Brown — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 07:28:35 GMT

Whew! I've read all the comments about Admiral Fallon resigning his position. Most of you have valid reasons for you intellegent thoughts on the matter. But some of you just don't get it. All of you who feel the war in Iraq is illegal, started by lies, you need to protest. Those who are for the war enlist now.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

A. Brown — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 07:41:02 GMT

If the Bush administration is so Patriot and concerned with National Security, why outsource our defence contracts to other countries. All they care about is making "MONEY" The Dubai Ports Dealand the Defence contract to Airbus for military aircraft is a prime example of their Fake Patriotism. Wake up people.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

James Lessell Geth, Eureka, California — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 08:39:24 GMT

Let you that support this lie which is the war on terror go all in; your lives, your wealth, your famlies, your future, your all, like true patriots, actively fighting on the front line, willing to die first for your cause, living proof of the "just us" of the struggle... Not! You see, a lie is not worth dying for. Still, the liars should be on the front line. Oh... there is no front line in this war. Well, follow the oil profits; the front line is in the oil slick around the world. You that believe in this warmongering must personally pay for it with all that you have. Like the founding fathers of old: have faith; have vision; pledge all of your fortune; re-invest the wealth you stole for your so called "noble" be-cause your cause is only because you don't have a cause, but lust.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

gloria riverviw florida — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 08:41:25 GMT

i approved that we are in iraq right now if how we call it a mistake but at least we are very near to iran just incase iran will do terror.it is falcon right to retire anyway there is always second best...

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

paul ryan, virginia beach, va. — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 08:47:31 GMT

If Iran develops the "Bomb"...we need to be ready to
eliminate the factory.If we do not stay and finish the Iraq situation, we will be the victims of suicide bombers; they will sneak into the USA.
Remember: we are non muslims; that means we are infidels ... and they must kill us.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Jim D Cleveland, OH — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 08:48:49 GMT

I think everyone needs to do some very deep R&D on how and why we got into the Iraq situation we are now mired in. There are some who know the facts but do not wish to speak them because of the fallout they will incur. I think the parties who goaded us into the Iraq quagmire are again pushing us hard to take on Iran to do their dirty-work again. Go look into the details supplied to Colin Powell and the UN to see the garbage they were fed by certain individuals within the government that were used to justify going to war. I think if certain elements within and outside of the USA want Iran dealt with they can go do it themselves. The US Army should not be a proxy fighting force for other nations, individuals or elements. If the USA decides it makes sense to have a conflict with Iran, fine, let's do it but let's not allow a repeat of a small cabal of individuals who may not have the interests of the USA as their primary concern get us into another disaster. All these fools knew was to take down Saddam and didn't think through the aftermath. So what do we now get because of this idiocy ? An Iraq that is slowly but surely turning into an Iranian outpost. All this talk about taking on Iran and we have turned a counterweight (Iraq) to Iran into an Iran ally ? Don't let these elements get us into another one of these without the approval of the miltary. Bush needs to tell these voices whispering "bomb Iran" in his ear to bug off.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

ExpandYourMind, CA — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 09:02:13 GMT

Come on people wake up! America would have not become prosperous without killing 50 millions natives, 300 years of forced slavery perpetrated against africans and asians, and restricting the freedoms of non-whites while establishing a basis to steal the black abyss from underneath the arab man's feet. They will join the ranks of the above mentioned unless we stand together and resist the madness.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

John Hatfield Macon GA — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 09:09:21 GMT

I smell a rat at esquire,ill bet its just a big LIB that wrote that aticle!Lay off GWB hes doing the best he can at a very tough time!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

John Pellay, Las Vegas, Nevada — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 11:30:18 GMT

As a retired Air Force Master Sergeant with over 22 years of devoted service I was trained to always say "I can't confirm it or deny it!" I praise Admiral Fallon for his service and I'm very surprised he put himself in a Truman/McArthur type confrontation that resulted in McArthur just fading away. I'm almost sure that as unpopular as the Bush/Cheney administration is today they will hold back from taking on Iran during their last 10 months in office. There is going to be enough economic issues/war issues on the next President's plate to deal with "right on day one"! Lets not make any unnecessary moves on another Arab front because honestly we just can't make it happen with the present U.S military forces fighting and maintaining peace throughout this dangerous world. You don't have to be a secretary of defense or a high ranking general officer to realize the magnification of such a tasking! I hope and pray on January 20, 2009 the country will have elected a President who keeps common sense in the foreground instead of the background. I also hope we will witness a working and not whinning Congress that will make sure our new President doesn't forget who put him/her in the highest office in our land. I also hope the Congress doesn't forget who put them in office too! God Bless America!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

jimbo palm beach, florida — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 11:37:41 GMT

Let Bushie even try to drag us into a 3rd war and the American people will storm the White House like the French did prior to the French revolution. When you think about it its not a bad idea..Storm the White House and bring out the guillotine for Bushie and Cheney - Crimes against the American people. These 2 are totally out of control and if we had not had a Republican Congress for almost 7 years they would have been impeached years ago. Their crimes are alot more serious than Bills dalliance with a willing Monica. Wake up America..Take back our country and start doing it now. !!!!!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Tim, Portland — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 12:04:01 GMT

The gross naivete' of the folks on here is once again on display. This is how things work in Washington. I guarantee you that Adm Fallon is not the only military commander nor administration official "against going to war" with Iran over their desire to build a nuclear weapon. There ARE always disagreements on policy in ALL administrations. Having been in the middle of the Clinton administration's numerous awful mistakes (that cost the lives of hundreds of thousands) I can tell you it takes real guts to push your position...but it is vital that our leaders do just that. As long as the debate remains behind closed doors we have options - but once it surfaces and threatens to distract everyone...and alarm potential enemies and allies, the right thing to do is retire. Fox Fallon is a great American...doing what he thinks is right. I salute his service.

And think about it folks - a nuclear armed Iran is our and the Middle East's worst nightmare... We cannot rule out any action - to do so is simply stupid. In this kind of brinkmanship, making the other guy blink is what you want...without going to war. I want Iran to be very, very afraid of the consequences of their actions.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

FD, Tennessee — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 12:57:10 GMT

The real power behind the throne is Cheney. Bush is too stupid to even read a teleprompter. Cheney is the one that forced the General's resignation and he is the "man behind the curtain" that will bring us to war with Iran. We need to send a strong message to our Congressional leaders: IMPEACHMENT! Now! We need to show the rest of the world that we can "clean" our dirty laundry. How many more top officials have to resign before we see that the current administration will stop at nothing to execute their own agenda. Money is what drives Cheney. He and his cronies have made untold wealth with the IRAQ war and will gain even more if a war is started with IRAN. People make money during wartime. I think the General stepped down because he doesn't want to be linked anymore with this greedy administration. IMPEACHMENT! NOW!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

james perotti, saxapahaw, nc. — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 13:13:19 GMT

Probebly has something to do with preventing Iran form selling it's oil, and creating price competition.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

john, prince george, VA — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 13:21:39 GMT

This is really amazing. From the comments made most of the peoplew commenting have never seen the article that this article is supposed to be based on. The ADMIRAL has resigned because the DRIVE-BY-PRESS have to keep a non story in the headlines to cause distractions. If the admiral is answering questions about a PERCEIVED problem it is hard to concentrate on the duties he is supposed to be performing as Central Command Commander. If the press didn't amplify inuendo and rumor the headlines might not be as interesting but they wouldn't be distracting the people they are criticising. As for the war in Iraq, people should look at the history of the United States for answers to questions such as How long does it take to put a government together and make it effective? To answer this question I ask several more. When was the American Revolution? When did the first US president take office? Why? When was the US Constitution signed and radified? No one likes war but if you run away from it it will follow you. Every US citizen has the right to free speech it is just that the media feels that they have the right to interpret that speech to their agenda be it for or against what was said. If it was against their agenda then it can be twisted to fit by leaving out portions or inserting an interpitaion that fits. All we ever hear about in the press is how bad things are in Iraq, we never hear about the schools, hospitals and other facilities that have been restored or created since the invasion. Why are death and distruction the only news worthy topics. Even here in the US the news reports cover in great detail the tragic events that happen and mention in passing the good thinks that happen. I get tired of seeing the same 5 second clip of an event played over and over for 30 seconds to a minute while gross details of the event are spouted. Even when the president does something good the media spins it to look bad. I spent 20 years defending this country and would do it again. It may not be the best country in the world but their are definitely many countries a lot worse. Love it or leave it. I don't care which you do.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

anotheroldefart — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 13:30:41 GMT

wow - whay a bunch of drivel here from the "armchair generals". I'll bet you all picked the superbowl winner at the beginning of the season too - right?

As someone who has been with BOTH ADM Fallon and ADM Mullen, let me say that they are both intelligent, wise, astute men of honor. They have been well-trained to do the job that they are entrusted with. They serve at the "pleasure of the Commander-in-Chief", as part of his military advisory team. Unfortunately for our nation, the liberal media often puts things out of context so things like this develop. If we had RESPONSIBLE journalism in this country, we would not have elected Slick Willy, who put us back 40 years in our military AND intelligence efforts - from which we will probably NEVER recover. You think 1 Admiralleaving is bad - you should have seen the bloodbath that the Clinton "reign" caused in our top military ranks. I was there and saw it firsthand. Yeah, Bush isn't the sharpest tool in the shed, but at least he has a good set of advisors - ADM Fallon included. If Mr. "global-warming panic, I invented the internet" Gore or any of the other pseudo-intellectuals from the left side (Kerry included) were President - with their socialist/pacifist advisors,we would be fighting in the streets of downtown USA instead of downtown Iraq. Iran's fate rests with them - if they push , they will get crushed just like Saddam. The Iranian people are good - their leadership is evil. That's what we ALL need to remember. However, that was also the situation with Japan in WWII - so would you have not fought the Japanese?

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

J. Stewart — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 13:35:52 GMT

My hats off to Adm. William Fallon! a man with guts and conviction. I feel like dancin a jig!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Dan Witmer OKC OK — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 13:41:44 GMT

If any of these comments posted here are leaked to the news media you all could be asked to resign.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Ray Beatty, Lynchburg, VA — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 13:55:50 GMT

Whether you agree with the Admiral's views or not, it is a violation of Military protocol to be publicly critical of a superior, especially the commander in chief. Admiral Fallon should know better. Doesn't anyone remember the general who had to retire after joking that Clinton was a 'draft dodger'?

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Tom Dundee, Aberdeen SD — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 13:57:12 GMT

We must all be thankful that our pre-emptive wars have been few.

There were two more occasions that a pre-emptive war could have been mis-applied. The first being Pearl Harbor & second being 9-11. Even at 100 times the casualties, it was still a bargain to maintain the high moral ground.

At least at Pearl Harbor, we were involved in talks with Japan. We tried to avoid war. Even as far back as Pearl Harbor, we did not send a commission to Japan to find out why they hated us. Now we will never know if it was our fault.

We need a national dialogue on the number of cities we should allow to be nuked before we retaliate.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Sid Rayman, Reston, Virginia — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 13:59:40 GMT

Ever wonder what the heavily funded Office of Strategic Information at the Pentagon does -- misinformation, propaganda and damage control! This is a George Bush/Dick Cheney and the Israeli sympathizers (e.g. Paul Wolfowitz, Doug Feith, Richard Perle) pet project. And these right wing neoconservatives and are heavy contributors to his effort. When will the Congress nulify this anti-democratic, anti-human rights and anti-American organization at the heart of the Pentagon?

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Rudcorgal, Temple City, CA — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 14:02:30 GMT

Let alone Middleast! Let's solve our own economic crisis. We are down to the ground and can not get up because the gas price keep rising. Is the Middle East helping us? The President already send a message, that the OPEC is not cooperating to push oil production and they are responsible for the World Economic Downfall. Since, we do not get benefit in helping through military support and involvement,... stop AMERICA, pull-out...and leave them alone. We have suffered too much and our Beloved Country USA is depressed, economically drained, and lost many lives for the sake of others. We have done our part, leave Middleast Alone and let them solve their own problems. I hope ADM FALLON will be selected as VP for John McCain!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

marvin j ,kingsport ,tn — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 14:16:37 GMT

dick cheney 's voice seems to be found in all the wrong places ,has'nt he made enough money with halaburtant yet ,perhaps when they run out of work in iraq ,he wants iran's business .....

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

John Steinauer, Raleigh, NC — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 14:16:59 GMT

True loyalty to any cause comes in standing for what you know to be the truth. False loyalty gains short-term favor but the consequences of the malfeasance are inevitable. Becca is right on target, but this problem of firing people for standing for what they believe is pervasive in all avenues of our society. Look at what happened to Gen. Zinny, Gen Powell, now Admiral Fallon; the pattern is clear. To be sure a President should get his house in order; the problem is that the Admiral's point of view is seen as dissention. This is more informative that any other fact. No military force can attack all potential enemies, create multiple fronts, and support indefinite time/resource commitments and win. Look to history - Germany attacking Russia, etc... No force, however savvy, well trained, equipped, or motivated, and even with the will of the people, can sustain indefinite combat. What I believe is missing is the capacity to respect. Respect for either the passionate beliefs of respected authorities (Generals, Admirals, etc...) and the judgments and lessons of history would be invaluable.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

fred stein, kearny, nj — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 14:21:16 GMT

I WOULD VOTE FOR JOHN MCCAIN IF HE TOOK FALLON AS VP!!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Ann, St. Petersburg, Fl — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 14:26:06 GMT

One writer writes that "You're suppose to talk tough and let the White House do the diplomacy" I agree that the White House should do the diplomacy.
Trouble is, it has pretty much failed in that measure.
Bush's idea of diplomacy is to tell the world that HE is the decider and that's that. I do agree that for the sake of our national security, certain information should be contained. Yet for the most part, ever since Bush "took" office, there has been a dark, incidious, almost ominous, shroud hovering over the White House. All the seeming secrecy is daunting at best.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Nathan Young, Billings MT — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 14:31:53 GMT

I have an idea. William Fallon keeps his job and the president resigns.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Bill Burtchaell — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 14:49:57 GMT

Amazing to read the take on this by the comments here! I have followed this story from a military perspective and will begin by stating; this administration nor any other command structure cannot endure when members or leaders take thier differences to the press! Futhermore Admiral Fallon's statement expresses a sincere regret that the interview resulted in a "perception of differences with the adminstration", that he strongly denies even exists. Not a single comment critiques the Esquire article or the spin that the writer gives it. No it has created another opportunity to bash Bush and Patreaus. Wake up people! Go and read the entire statement from the Admiral and stop swallowing whole the spin of the press.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Paul Adam, Tacoma, WA — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 15:02:20 GMT

Interesting. Many of the same people who think that our government is too secretive etc. etc.are the same ones who are critical of the president for exercising his constitutional rights. Wake up!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

gerry o. — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 15:12:02 GMT

It is ironic that Fallon is removed, as our vp Cheney heads for the mid-east to promote "peace" or is it the war with Iran that is the real motive for the trip?
I wouldn't put anything past these guys.
They are doing a graet deal of harm to our economy with these invasions. Does anyone remeber the price of oil when Bush took office?

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

FLL,usa,FLA — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 15:17:52 GMT

The Surge is only as good as the opponents (elements including IRAN) let it appear. Over night those
elements can decide to throw it all over with the
result ,we are in a lot deeper trouble than now such
as hostage dramas EN MASSE ,humanshields posted in Iran on Targets and in undisclosed locations
for decades if not Generations.
All this accompagnied by Blocking HORMUZ and announcing
the first initial Atomtest ,which could take place
in TELAVIV Green ZONE,Forward Command center QUATAR or wherever , instead of underground Testexplosions-series within iranian soil.
How they got 70000 missiles ? easy :CHINA takes 5 barrel of OIL against 1 Highspeed low Altitude Missile range < 150NM .

Schadenfreude on part of CHINA AND RUSSIA ,
Gazing watchers like EU .

I tell You what ,Ladies and Gentlemens , this
discussion here is more decisive than WWII in its
magnitude. We have to do the right thing at the richt time at the right location with the right relieble
ally's.
Defining friend and foe.Negotiate whenever possible.
Present Ultimatum's before fireing shots respectively
Dropping Bombs or missiles.
If we cannot take them on at the same time, we have to
prioritize according to a set of relevant factors
like in WWII , they concluded "GERMANY FIRST" than JAPAN.

So , forget details like e.g."THE SURGE "
Compare it with gloal warming.
It' s like a religion .
Most , if not ALL , religions are a DUMMING.

The reality is right here , in this discussion
on msnbc , it is on this globe about defeating EVIL.
It is about survival of the civilized world , the
good guys and girls ,so to say.

Adm. William Fellon looks to me like a CHAMBERLAIN . It appears he is in error. Why did he say before
"They (the EVIL-Elements)are ants , when time comes we crush them"? Now, when asked to pull the 3 or 4
battle group (Flagshipp USS Reagon) within striking distance of Teheran 400 NM approximately , " I wanna resign".
The only sense it makes to me , is this : He doesn't
want to accept the responsibility of a withdrawal.
If asked to withdrawal , he would do the same thing
" I wanna resign " WHY , he knows this would be wronger than proscecute the clash .
Therefore questions reference history:
"Fellon , Hiroshima , would you have resigned
before the commander in chief asked you to strike?
"Fellon , same question , for D-DAy "
"Fellon , same question for Capitulation JAPAN ?"
(re>: John Doe, Seattle, Wash. below)

Re.: Costs of war
Reagan said once:" Deficit's don't matter "

WITHDRAWAL cannot be the ANSWER , as soon as i have
the answer i will show up in this FORUM MSNBC
If there is no answer however there will be
a best (to the best of my knowledge answer) answer.

In the mean time , I want you all to remember this:
It is America ( the USA ) that will matter ,it
includes YOU ! and also this timeline (Timeline of EVIL) here:

1932 nanking empjapan
1934 abessinia moussolini
1937 manchoria Emp Japan
WWII Hitler goehring
1956 Budapest Chrechow
1968 Prag breznew
1975 Pol Pot
1991 saddam
2001 taliban
2003 saddam
2009 amadinadshad

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

M Onger, NJ — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 15:27:27 GMT

Iran is all about altering the status of the sole nuclear power in the Mid-East. It is not about a threat to the US. Only Fallon knows his reasons, but one of them might be that the Department of Defense is for our defense, not to be used as the attack dog of another nation.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

JIM M new richmond Ohio — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 15:35:00 GMT

Are there no laws of justus that can hold BUSH and company accoutable for lies to american public? How many more generals will have to drop out durring war time with the thret of loosing retirment from BUSH who has never studied military stratigy,but by now it is very evident who is the DECIDER.Bush sings songs adout scooter,laughing in ower faces of how he can stop all convictions of his clan,how the home owner was at falt for mortgage crises and laughed about it on national TV.IS HE REALY IMMUNE TO OWER AND OTHER COUNTRYS LAWS?? He must answer to no one?? Is it not strange that the fear that Bush was peedeling for the war in Iraq that when he got his war the powdered envelops stoped?

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Dean , Cleveland OH — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 15:35:07 GMT

Commander Adm. William "Fox" Fallon IS A DISGRACE TO THE US MILITARY, HE IS THERE TO FOLLOW ORDERS " NOT QUESTION THEM" he should be in prison for his comments against his commanding officer, and for talking about US Military operations. US citizens should question everything , that is our patriotic duty. There” Fox” duty is to follow orders, Make flowers “Yes Sir” Bomb Iran “yes Sir”
Turn your Key Yes Sir.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Diva Bleu-Internet Radio Producer/Personality-Philadelphia, PA — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 15:55:57 GMT

Charles in Crestview:
"Big John McCain may need you to return to active duty as VP. Hang in there Big Guy, may the wind be at your back and smooth sailing." -- John McCain won't be taking Adm. "Fox" as VP because he wants to go on with this war for the next 50 to 100 years. Nevermind that the occupation of these countries is what brings the wrath on America, because we go and impose our "democracy" (tho last time I checked we were capitalists, not democrats...) on other people who also have the right to practice their own religions and ways of life. Imagine so-called liberators coming to "save" us from Christian, capitalist lives and make us all into Budhists? Get it together people...

Also, Phil in AZ:
"I am so tired about hearing the left discuss blood for oil, yet there seems to no discussion from the left about what to do about the global threat from a nuclear Iran and the loss of life that will be lost under these circumstances..." --Oh, Phil. The threat is there, but let's be real about the fact that it has been there for many years and ignored, swept under the rug. These men and women who defend us, a lot of whom are the men and women of my family, deserve to be sent into battle well prepared and only after we have no other options. We are not barbarians, we are men and women with minds and hearts and language and we should never sell our own people so short as to not communicate with our enemies and show how sophiisticated and mature we are as American people. Remember, we don't represent the President, the President represents the People!!!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Leonard Simek — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 15:58:53 GMT

Congress has the power to stop the situation in IRAQ.
Americans are under the misconception that military leaders are controlling all aspects of the IRAQ tragedy.
The American people are waiting for congress to act and act quickly....the consequences of staying in IRAQ far outweigh any consequential withdraw, as matter of fact they already have,,,,thousands of soldiers killed or permanently disabled. God Forbid we make another huge mistake and strike IRAN, without any justification. Admiral Fallon, Thank You, for your dedicated service to the United States of America.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

mike,san jose — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 16:04:15 GMT

don't let your politics get in the way of understanding this article.

THE COMMANDER DID NOT RESIGN. NOR WAS HE FORCED OUT.
Esquire Magazine put their spin on his words. That is why he called it a "Poisen Pen".

Our Allies in the region think we are soft.

The fact is, Liberals will always believe Bush does the wrong thing.

You people should NOT be allowed to vote. You are cattle for, led to the trough, no real thoughts or opinions of your own.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Michael Cauley- Bloomfield Hills, MI — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 16:27:07 GMT

It is a shame most of you react to media reports as if there is truth in reporting. As well, study any conflict of America defending itself either preemptively WWI 1910's, WWII 1940's, Korean War 1950's Gulf War 1990's or reactively Japan 1940's; you will find this type of discussion.

Oddly, the United States has not begun any build up to launch a war with Iran. You folks need to step up to the plate of reality after September 11, 2001. The United States' best chance for the safer world of pre 9/11 is to turn up the heat on terrorist and their back door suppliers. It is a shame when only a few governments have the vision of long term consequences versus short term. These countries worry more about their oil supplies than they do their freedoms. We almost had that short term thinking during WWI & WWII as we tried let other countries take care of our eventual enemies. That is why so many people in the world are trying to come to the United States and leave their countries. So watch the flow of people not the media if your care for reality of what is really going on in the world.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

stevie — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 16:58:07 GMT

Unfortunately, there are some who must be stopped, and late stoppage can be a LOT more bloody than early.
Hitler could have been stopped before re-arming was complete at the Rhineland, or at Chechoslovakia, but the then world powers of France and England let him continue until Poland.
Delay in a Iran may well result in nuclear - not merely conventional - war.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Dean Z, Chicago, IL — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 17:09:32 GMT

The US is going to strike Iran because that's exactly what the neocons in the State Department want, but more importantly, it's what AIPAC wants.

Period.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

A. Magnus, Tampa Bay, FL — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 17:25:48 GMT

None of the people wanting war with Iran are lining up at the enlisting office; in fact recruiting shortfalls have been a regular thing for the past few years...gee, wonder why? Could it be cowardice? Anyone who thinks that Iran even with 100 short to mid-range nukes is a threat to the U.S. which has tens of thousands of nukes obviously slept through the Cold War and knows nothing of history. Bombing Iran, however WILL start the next global war, because Russia has already stated it will consider an attack on Iran's nuclear facilities while their engineers are there to be an attack on Russia. Wonder why the Russians have been buzzing our carriers with their Tu-95 Bear bombers lately? Now you know. If you think Iraq is a stalemate, then just wait till we're fighting Russia, China and Iran! Are you world domination wingnuts 'Army Strong' yet?

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Johnny Rock,MN — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 17:32:56 GMT

I think we are on the wrong thoughts of why Admiral Fallon is leaving. I believe Fallon is exiting so he does not have to responsible for the aftermath in Iraq.When Obama or Hillary become's president the troops will be coming out of Iraq. What will happen afterwards is anyones guess,more civil war's? Iraqies uniting together to be one? How long would it take for any leader to be replaced in Iraq, not long I would guess unless they have the proper military technologies along with an Iron fist like Hussein.We will not go to war with Iran just like we did not go to war with Iraq.If you want to call it a war then it would be with china or russia. Iraq was more like a slaughter then it was a war.Sending a super power against a 3rd rate country is a slaughter and to have said hurray when we slaughtered them twice in a decade is the biggest wars againt humanity we will ever see. There should be two Bushes hanging from a rope instead we stretched hussein's.If that isnt the biggest bowl of horse S*** I dont know what is.If anything we should of destroyed Saudia where the most brainwashed and evil american haters on earth exist oh ya the prince of saudia is a Bush buddy so I guess they were spared. small fry

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Joe Bean — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 17:36:11 GMT

To James K I'm guessing your not that old and have and still wet behind the ears. First off President Johnston kept us in a war that killed at least 30000 soldiers a year and we had to wait for President Nixon to get us out of Vietnam. Then there was Jimmy Carter by far the most incompenent President ever. He almost with his simplistic ideas destroyrd this country not intentially but strickly incompenent. Evev Presidents like truman whom I admire did the unthinkable and dropped two bombs that killed 100000 s of innocents but everything is done for a reason. How about JFK do you realize how close to a nuclear war we came to have thankfully it was the Russian President that backed down otherwise you and I would be just memories. Check history its wonderful. Kindest Regards

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

B. Davis — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 17:40:09 GMT

'. . . whenever any form of government becomes destructive. . . it is the right of the people to alter or to abolish it, and to institute a new government.' The Declaration of Independence

How does one go about doing such a thing with all the corruption on the hill? What has happened to this once great nation, the United States of America.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Yankee, stay home — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 17:48:13 GMT

I also applaud the General for resigning. Hopefully he'll be replaced with a General who has the nerve required for the position. Someone who is not afraid of the vocal minority and says "damn the torpedoes full steam ahead". I applaud the Administration, but with one fault. This kind of war can never be won without that for which we as a nation have on stomach for anymore. We are required to sacrifice in all areas to win this war, but we won't. I think in 4-5 years when this country no longer exists as a free nation we will look back and say "if only we took it seriously". Hope your kids know how to speak spanish and arabic - cause that's where it's going.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Sigh, Springfield, IL — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 18:24:34 GMT

"Gates described as “ridiculous” any notion that Fallon’s departure signals the United States is planning to go to war with Iran."

UH-HUH

Something most people fail to understand is: the United States of America is chock full-o-nuts. The VAST majority are rude, ill-bred, self-absorbed savages who have no concept of common courtesy and no respect for themselves, let alone anyone else. Your leaders understand this and that's why we're in the messes we're in now. As long as you can watch people screwing standing up (music videos) in cheap hooker clothing or attempting to sing or whatever, your leaders know you have no clue what it is they're up to and they like it like that. That's why, occaisionally, they'll throw you a bone: Here, you kids wrangle over the smoking issue, we grown-ups are going over here to get richer. And the stupid, stupid people go off happily into the sunset, picking at their neighbors for no good reason. Thanks for having the guts to say it, Commander, I was listening even if no one else is!

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

jim hignite columbus, Ohio — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 20:40:48 GMT

I thought Bush was finally getting the message from the 2006 elections. No , more big decisions, keep the lights ,on a cleanup of your presidency will take decades as it stands.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Carstie, Weme, Minnesota — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 21:37:34 GMT

It's amazing how many ill-informed and unwise people seek to share their lack of understanding on this comment board. The US has no business in Iraq, to say nothing of attacking Iran. "We" have bases in something like 160 countries overseas. Why? What is the threat?
In his retirement speech President Eisenhower warned Americans about the rise of what he called the "military-industrial complex" and which I prefer to call the WarDefense industry. After all, they make their big bucks off the taxpayers by building military equipment and buying politicians who favor imperialistic and jingoistic policies.
As a society we need to ask ourselves if America ought to play the role of Global Robocop when we have no national healthcare system, our transportation infrastructure is rapidly decaying and while millions of Americans may lose their homes this year because of shoddy mortgage lending practices. Where are our priorities.
Being an old-fashioned Goldwater conservative, I cringe at the fools who blame the "liberal" press for everything in foreign policy matters with which they do not agree. In traditional conservative terms Bush, Cheney and the lot are not conservatives, they are nutcases who are succeeding in destroying America through the very "foreign entanglements" which our first President, George Washington warned us against.
Bring the troops home. We have much better uses for the money.

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

DAN, ROCKVILLE MD. — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 00:24:21 GMT

TO THOSE THAT DISAGREE WITH THE POSITIVE COMMENTS TO THE RESIGNATION OF GENERAL FALLOWS, I CAN ONLY SAY " what are the successful results of george bush's aqgenda can you cite of the last 7 years? there are none. THIS IS A FAILED PRESIDENCY. OUR COUNTRY IS DISOLVING BEFORE YOUR EYES.. BUSH IS AN INCOMPENTANT

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

Dave Beach. La Crosse, WI — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 01:36:40 GMT

I Agree with many of the previous, Bush should be impeached before he can do more damage. He will walk out of the office and be set for life thinking "I was the perfect president, regardless of what the rest of us think. I just hope that congress would get off its butts and impeach his highness (the opposite of progress seems to be congress)

A Pentagon problem – loose lips

sharon ann ct — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 03:08:44 GMT

GET OUR MEN OUT OF THERE BEFORE ITS TO LATE TO MANY OF OUR MEN AND WOMAN DIE NOW THEY SHOULD COME HOME FOR GODS SAKES BUSH LOVES HIS WAR AM VERY ASHAME OF WHAT HE IS DOING