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This is a problem that should transcend your political views. Good commanders know that everyone on the ground understanding commander's intent is important. Airborne units practice this to the extreme with LGOP (little groups of paratroopers). EVERYONE knows intent. 1/
That didn't happen here. The president is the Commander in Chief of the US military. He makes the decisions. When the White House issues a press release saying "this is how we're addressing the Turkey/Kurd/ISIS situation" that's not a lawful order by military standards. 2/
But it could easily be confused for one. Remember that generals are confirmed by the Senate (a political body) for each promotion they receive. Not following commander's intent (even if expressed as a press release rather than a formal order) could be a career ender. 3/
I could go on for days about how bone headed this move was, but I'll close by noting that major changes in strategy take time to execute properly. This seems like it will have to be executed as a drawdown in US forces, a dangerous move for our troops in the best circumstances. 4/
Our troops can't just "stay out of the way" while Turkey murders the Kurds - that's not how modern warfare works. They'll need to rapidly move out of the area of operations or be in the line of fire themselves. 5/
This will almost certainly cost American lives, especially given the haste of the decision and total lack of communication.
I've been on the sharp end, but never in conditions like this. I can't imagine serving under leaders trying to balance orders and press releases. /FIN
I've been on the sharp end, but never in conditions like this. I can't imagine serving under leaders trying to balance orders and press releases. /FIN
