<p>It seems to me that if the Admiral is responding to the issues raised by WhistlePig, then he hasn’t made himself clear. In fact, with each new quote he indicts himself further. Sniping at “homeless peolple” and referring to a gospel choir in terms that suggest they are to function as a recruiting arm of the Naval Academy not only stuns many, but offends most. He sounds peevish, small, and disconnected from the human condition. If he hasn’t noticed, many of us hold the troops in high esteem because they are men and women who aim to preserve and respect human life first, and are warriors only when necessary. The human connection, and the value we place on dignity and honor, maintains strength with compassion, and differentiates us from barbarians. How hateful is it to see the radical extremists endeavor to accomplish their goals with regard for nothing but victory, killing non-combatants, and innocents along the way. Maintaining the respect for people, the homeless included, is what keeps our troops from exerting might without conscience.</p>
<p>Perhaps the Admiral would be well served to be more thoughtful with his language…in the end, whether he proves to be on the right course or not, he will have lost the hearts and minds of those that he wishes to lead, and others as well. </p>
<p>He is his own worse enemy…he needn’t worry about others speculating about his motives, he speaks them loud and clear.</p>