I agree. I think to say that Obama had him fly there to deliver this message is hyperbole. He was answering a question to him in a forum setting and, IMO, answered it honestly.
I agree with you about Obama having to fly Mullen there to deliver that messgage. However, he is the CJCS visiting a combat zone talking to young Airmen, Soldiers and Sailors, he should have known that one of the main things these Warriors were concerned about was getting paid. Many live pay check to pay check. I know I did for my first 7 years in the military. He should have had some type of promise from the CINC, that military pay would be of the highest priority, and not give the Troops anymore things to worry about.