I think we go too far saying Flynn “worked for Obama.” He was director of the DIA.
I used to work at the DIA. Did a four year tour there.
The director is a three-star appointed officer of the US Military, and revolves between a Navy Admiral, and Air Force, Army and Marines Lt Generals. While all senior flag officers are appointed by the president, it is really Sec-Def and the respective service chiefs who calls it in.
Appointments to the joint agencies like DIA are also done from the White House, but still upon recommendation of the DoD. I don’t think any president or administration that’s not DoD knows who’s who in the military anyway.
From any president or his andministration’s perspective, it’s easier to fire or NOT promote an officer who is politically or strategically opposed than to find one who is a Quisling and appoint him/her.
Yes, no point in mincing words - Some / Many of these Generals/Admirals are Political Animals and worthless when it comes to actual combat