BernieHund: The Political Watchdog

Disagree with the Bush-Cheney War and count your days.  Today, Admiral William Fallon resigned. 

Why?  His words (from ABC report)

“Recent press reports suggesting a disconnect between my views and the President’s policy objectives have become a distraction at a critical time and hamper efforts in the CENTCOM region. And although I don’t believe there have ever been any differences about the objectives of our policy in the Central Command Area of Responsibility, the simple perception that there is makes it difficult for me to effectively serve America’s interests there,” Fallon said in a written statement.

“I have therefore concluded that it would be best to step aside and allow the Secretary and our military leaders to move beyond this distraction… and focus on the achievement of our strategic objectives in the region. I have submitted my request to retire to the Secretary of Defense,” Fallon’s statement reads.

According to a recent article in Esquire

Unlike the Bush Administration, Admiral William “Fox” Fallon, the head of U.S. Central Command, doesn’t think we should go to war with Iran. This view might cost him his job.

Fallon has been called the man who stands between the President and a war in Iran.  That’s enough to scare the hell out of all of us, especially now that he has resigned.  Fallon has openly criticized the President’s rhetoric towards Iran, although Secretary of Defense Gates says it is a “misinterpretation.”

Admiral Fallon has had a long Navy career, but longevity serves little purpose when one disagrees with the President.

Fallon has had a 41-year Navy career. He took the Central Command post on March 16, 2007, succeeding Army Gen. John Abizaid, who retired. Fallon previously served as commander of U.S. Pacific Command.

Gates said that until a permanent replacement is nominated and confirmed by the Senate, Fallon’s place will be taken by his top deputy.

It appears that we have lost the voice of reason in a war that isn’t going well overall.  As he leaves, we wish him well…. and we wish ourselves well, too.