I recall that the unit I commanded ceased having supply and re-supply problems and the need to cannibalize aircraft for parts became much less prevalent. When attention is paid to an identifiable institution like the DOD and its fielded forces it is inevitable that the morale improves and personnel issues become less formidable.
I don't recall from his book precisely what unit General Clark commanded or was associated with during the middle Reagan years, that might have been the period of his higher level professional military education emphasis. But where ever he was in the upward progression that marked his brilliant career, he benefited from the Reagan years just like the rest of us. He would be less than candid if he had not acknowledged that fact, and, General Clark's trait of candor is unchallengeable. I know there are some out there who would disagree with that comment but they are wrong.