[neocon1984]

The Generals are usually much less eager for military interventions (and especially nation building) that the politicians.

[Alberta's Child]

That's a valid point, but this is really a diplomatic role -- so the ideal candidate would more likely be a seasoned political figure who is well-versed in a wide range of foreign affairs. I don't know if senior military people really have the background for this position.

One other interesting point is that I'm starting to wonder if this is really a crappy job that doesn't attract the best and brightest the U.S. has to offer. A look back over the last 40 years shows very few people who I would consider real "winners" in any sense.

This makes me wonder if someone like Romney really even wants the job. For all his flaws, he would look like a demigod of history compared to a lot of those losers.