I think you know the answer to that question.
It was likely a call from The Don....
This is very similar to the Chief Gallagher episode. That event, IMO, could have been and should have been handled with a couple of phone calls (and woe be to anyone who leaked it, E- or O-).
The Don has demonstrated in addition to having a trigger finger, that he is capable of allowing a system to make its decisions at the lowest level.
It appears, however, he may need a more experienced Military Advisor, or at least one knows how to graciously and effectively insert himself in such matters. One who knows how to work the system "by the book" and get the very bottom of the command what it obviously needs while satisfying the seniors above.