Replace Rumsfeld

Quotes (1-6 via the AP) from the retired generals who are calling for the ouster of Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld:

–1–

“We went to war with a flawed plan that didn’t account for the hard work to build the peace after we took down the regime. We also served under a secretary of defense who didn’t understand leadership, who was abusive, who was arrogant, who didn’t build a strong team.” - Retired Army Maj. Gen. John Batiste.

–2–

“My sincere view is that the commitment of our forces to this fight was done with a casualness and swagger that are the special province of those who have never had to execute these missions - or bury the results.” - Retired Marine Lt. Gen. Gregory Newbold.

–3–

“They only need the military advice when it satisfies their agenda. I think that’s a mistake, and that’s why I think he should resign.” - Retired Army Maj. Gen. John Riggs.

–4–

“We grow up in a culture where accountability, learning to accept responsibility, admitting mistakes and learning from them was critical to us. When we don’t see that happening it worries us. Poor military judgment has been used throughout this mission.” - Retired Marine Gen. Anthony Zinni, former chief of U.S. Central Command.

–5–

“I really believe that we need a new secretary of defense because Secretary Rumsfeld carries way too much baggage with him. … I think we need senior military leaders who understand the principles of war and apply them ruthlessly, and when the time comes, they need to call it like it is.” - Retired Army Maj. Gen. Charles Swannack.

–6–

“He has shown himself incompetent strategically, operationally and tactically, and is far more than anyone responsible for what has happened to our important mission in Iraq. … Mr. Rumsfeld must step down.” - Retired Army Maj. Gen. Paul Eaton.

–7–

“I admire those who have stepped forward, and I agree with the arguments they are making,” retired Marine Lt. Gen. Paul K. Van Riper said in an interview yesterday. “I count myself in the same camp.”

We’re at SEVEN, not “2 or 3 or 4″ as Rumsfeld says in trying to dismiss what these generals have to say about him. Not surprisingly, Bush took time out of his busy vacation at Camp David to express his support for Rumsfeld. We’ll know if Rumsfeld’s career is over when he receives the Presidential Medal of Freedom, I guess.