Wednesday, October 1, 2008

Gatesgate

“Be modest about what military force can accomplish and what technology can accomplish.” Who said it – some liberal, appeasing “peacenik”? No! None other than our own Secretary of Defense, Robert Gates. And note that he works for George Bush, not for Jimmy Carter. Gates warned an audience at the National Defense University (the belly of the military beast, at least on the intellectual side) about the limitations of sheer military power (i.e. brute force) and high technology – and this, right at the moment in history when the armed services are trying to turn every foot soldier into a mini-Robocop. This amazing show of modesty is perfectly justified, of course, in the wake of Iran and Afghanistan, where the insurgents are killing our troops with things made out of tin cans and string. Of course, all the “high tech” in the world is no match for indigenous people fighting on their own soil. Ever wonder why it’s called the “Department of Defense” when we’re always fighting on someone else’s territory, hmmm? But in any case, to hear even a word of skepticism of this sort breathed at the highest levels (I mean, the highest levels with a functioning cerebrum, which leaves out the president) feels like a breath of fresh air. Now only if it could be applied retroactively to the various messes and debacles we’re involved in all over the globe – now that would be refreshing

No comments: