I think this observation made by Defense Secretary Robert Gates at the
Army War College in early April captures the essence of strategy, much more
than anything about tying together ways, means and goals.
By the time
a decision gets to the president, there are no good options. If there was a
good option, somebody at a lower level would have made the decision and taken
credit for it. By the time a decision gets to the president or secretary of
Defense, more often than not, you've having to choose the least bad option."
Of the six defense secretaries I've covered, the two most effective were
William Perry and Robert Gates. Both are smart, articulate, reserved, and wise.
The difference between the two, I think, is that Gates seems to me to have a killer
instinct, which probably helps him herd the services along. Just ask the Air
Force these days.
U.S. Army
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