Didn’t the article make it pretty clear that it would be “retired officers” who would be making the public case for a slower withdrawal? I didn’t read it that Petraus or Odierno would be leading the charge...
“A network of senior military officers is also reported to be preparing to support Petraeus and Odierno by mobilising public opinion against Obama’s decision.”
don’t see the word retired- that’s what caught my eye!