[blueunicorn6]

The traits necessary to achieve becoming an admiral or general are not necessarily the same traits needed for a successful combat Commander.

To assume that excellence in one area guarantees excellence in another area is to believe in flying carpets and unicorns.

[ConservativeMind]

To assume admirals or generals weren’t politically placed is like believing in flying carpets and unicorns.

[Ace's Dad]

To assume that excellence in one area guarantees excellence in another area

To assume anything at that level is a mistake. There are many and varied chances to display flag leadership capabilities before becoming a combat commander.

[DBeers]

The traits necessary to achieve becoming an admiral or general are not necessarily the same traits needed for a successful combat Commander.

You state nothing with many words. It appears you attempt to put forward a logical fallacy, a false dilemma. The military should be focused primarily on "combat" ability either proven or determined potentially via training and review. There is no either this or that regarding traits. Why assume a combat veteran can not also administer other leadership duties required?

[OldGoatCPO]

Well said. Colin Powell was more of a political general officer then Storm’n Norman reportedly they clashed a lot in the first Gulf War. One of my mothers favorite photos was me and Storm’n Norman in Saudi Arabia. Powell was a political type as far back as Vietnam where I believe he was assigned as an IG, Storm’n Norman was a combat officer leading soldiers in Nam. Same with Mattis although he is one of the few to straddle both worlds successfully. This is another reason you want a conservative Senate. Presidents appoint conservative civilian leaders who work best with like minded generals so they promote them. Senate confirms the promotions. Conservative President + Conservative DOD + Conservative Senate and you get conservative officers promoted to general. That said it is still a buddy buddy system which is why so many have been relived of command the last few years win all services.