10 Comments
User's avatar
Barbara Radnofsky's avatar

“The reaction of the pilot and his commander are what you would expect from responsible military officers who understand the imperatives of maintaining flight safety and following regulations. The reaction of Hegseth & Co., by contrast, is a disgrace.”

Ben Prickril's avatar

So the worst possible defense secretary is sending the worst possible signal to those in uniform. Pete is a disgrace.

Cornelius's avatar

US military envy of the world? A European marine while on exercise got out a book. US marines: 'you read books?'

Not everyone who got to know the US military was impressed, and after Iran ...

Richard M Cavagnol's avatar

I would expect no less from a responsible military commander and so much more from the Secretary of Defence and CNO! Despicable juvenile behavior!

Charles's avatar

Richard, I don't believe we can expect much more than this behavior from Hegseth. The real question is why did the Senate confirm this obviously unqualified boy/man.

Pat A.'s avatar

So much for the chain of command. Why pay attention to your boss when Sec T-War will give you a pass?

Joe Plenzler's avatar

I agree with most of what you wrote, Max, but the CAPT’s mealy-mouthed passive-tense response wasn’t good leadership. Hegseth was wrong to undercut the command’s ability to instill good order and discipline, and what’s the point of being in command if the SecDef is going to reverse your SOPs and command decisions. I’d rather resign than serve in that environment. When it’s a matter of principle, it’s a matter of principle.

Michael's avatar

“Flat-hatting” is going to get a crew killed. Check out the VP-50 mishap at Pago-Pago

Brian Kiviat's avatar

This is what happens when a Major in the guard with no senior level experience is placed in a position that is multiple levels above his ability to even understand the position he’s been appointed to

Jeanne's avatar

Irresponsible behavior from the irresponsible. If “owning the libs” is the MAGA goal they obviously have not accomplished it, how many years have they been trying now? It sounds like a “frat house” theme.