I had the honor and privilege of working with GEN Downing on the White House Staff shortly after 9/11 and knew him to be a dedicated, honorable man who was totally committed to this country. He was asked to return to government service on several occasions, but refused until after 9/11. Believe me, the boot-lickers and risk-averse that permeate Washington could have learned a lot from a man like General Downing, but they refused to do so.
Oh no! God Bless him.
Was he ill?
Boy, oh boy, are you ever with on the target with your statement.
Damn lawyers and bureaucrats in D.C and the Pentagon do untold damage.