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I can’t refute your point or disagree with your assessment. Most of my experiences with Shinseki were when we were Lieutenant Colonels and Colonels. My contacts with him were less frequent when he became a general officer, though I did bump into him from time to time.

I think that he blundered on what should have been a simple and straightforward decision on the beret. He was right on the mark on the decision to move forward on the Stryker brigades and I was pleased to support his efforts toward that in a small way. The experiences of combat have validated his decisions.

I never knew his politics, but they appear to be quite troubling. I find this appointment quite curious because it has been widely rumored that he intends to run for Inoyue’s Senate seat in 2010. That doesn’t leave much time to serve as Veteran’s Affairs Secretary. Given the way many Army veterans view him, even a year might be a bit too long to stay.

I have come 180 on my opinion of you - and I think you are a very thoughtful, experienced, and tested individual. It is sometimes hard on this board to weigh who an individual is, and I sometimes (like many) jump into a pool of thought too quickly. My defense is that words on a board are what they are, and we make the best judgments we can - - - but snap decisions are historically a poor choice.

Thank you for your service, and for your insights regarding Shinseki.

I never knew his politics, but they appear to be quite troubling. I find this appointment quite curious because it has been widely rumored that he intends to run for Inoyue’s Senate seat in 2010.

This bothers me also.

My guess on the man is that he is a hard core Democrat and God does not figure into his life or his decision making.

Best to you centurion.