Mention the name Rumsfeld on this forum, and legions of the clueless will rise in full cry to his defense. I have yet to hear a Rumsfeld champion who understands what has really been going on in the building for the past five years.
I happen to believe that Rumsfeld made the correct strategic judgments, including the decision to attack Iraq. A successful war against terrorism must include not only its agents, Al Qaida and their ilk, but also the state supporters of these agents. Iraq was the logical intermediate objective. Attacking Iraq has neutralised Lybia and stymied Syria. Iran must be dealt with in due course, but Iraq has bought us some time.
Where I part company with Rumsfeld is in his operational judgements and decisions. He was so confident of a quick and decisive outcome in Iraq that he interupted the troop flow so that he use the result to bolster his case for a smaller, but more technologically capable force. He has botched most of the decisions subsequently. His arrogance makes it impossible for him to acknowledge these errors and to take corrective action. We are not being well served and I am at a loss to explain the continued confidence that he seems to enjoy with the President.
In the fullness of time, some H. R. McMaster will write the definitive account of Rumsfeld's tenure as Sec Def. He will not fare well.
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| "I have yet to hear a Rumsfeld champion who understands what has really been going on in the building for the past five years." I agree with this statement 100%. I have also yet to hear a Non-Rumsfeld champion who understands what has really been going on in the building for the past five years. Apparently you know, so please tell. I freely admit I don't know what has been going on but would like to be enlightened. |
I agree with you.
Rumsfeld is like some generals I've met - too arrogant to listen to advice. They assume those who disagree do so because they are slow of mind. It doesn't seem to occur to them that their opponents may have more knowledge that has led them to caution.
I'm more familiar with Rumsfeld from an acquisition perspective, and I think he's been a disaster there.
Interesting that you chose HR McMaster .... I'll assume you are talking about 73 Eastings and 3ACR fame .... now there is a stud. I did not know him .... but another named Dana Pittard. You are correct about Rumsfeld's judgments going into Iraq and yes Rumsfeld sure looks like the micro manager from hell. I just hope Rumsfeld makes the right decisions about Iran.