CNN

Hey, when did the Taliban stop being freedom fighters and start being terrorists? Did I miss something? Oh yeah, it was when they stopped fighting Russia and started fighting us. Have a nice day!

.... enter Stanley McChrystal

Many thanks to Gen. McKiernan for his many fine years of service...I am grateful for all of the hard work and sacrifice that you have given over the years to help keep this country safe and prosperous. However, part of being a professional, especially in the Armed Services (I'm a Veteran), is that the better or more appropriate person can at any time be chosen to replace you and as a team player, you step back, ask what you can do to help, or in his case, you get out of the way. There is no shame in that. There is nothing for him to be embarrassed or dismayed about. Suck it up soldier. All in all, YOU HAVE DONE WELL!

The only thing McKiernan should be embarrassed about is the fact that he is whining and making excuses. If any regular soldier did that they would be have their butt kicked bigtime. McKiernan has been the recipient of numerous lucky breaks and career opportunities to reach one of the highest levels of military leadership. His whining is very unbecoming of an officer so I am not surprised Gates wanted to give someone else a chance to lead.

Outstanding, why is that most of what we see is "class" from the military when it comes to integrity and commitment and when it comes to the Left (especialy at campaign time) they are only given lip-service?

Thank you for your service General. But when we need to change course, we must change course.

"it's about paying respect to your profession," he said, telling his supporters to "save your condolences for those who really need them – the families, friends and comrades of men and women who either will not return home, or whose lives have been permanently scarred by war."

class act.