Tuesday, July 8, 2008

Hawkins on Gates

William Hawkins (WH) of the U.S. Business and Industry Council echoes my 11 June 2008 sentiments concerning Robert Gates recent firing of two Air Force officials, Washington Times, 26 June 2008, www.washingtontimes.com/news/2008/jun/26/balance-of-forces/. WH notes, "The U.S. military must be prepared to fight major wars against regional powers and 'peer competitor' nation-states". What doesn't Gates understand? "There is a lesson from history. The British were the best in the world at fighting 'irregular' wars at the close of the 19th century. ... But when war broke out in Europe in 1914, London could muster only a handful of divisions to help defend France against the German invasion".

1 comment:

Richard said...

Sometimes the right questions get asked and there is a wrong answer given.

Sometimes no questions are asked and the wrong answers are still given,

Getting involved in World War I was a loser for any country, even the winners.

Getting involved in colonialism is an even bigger loser.

Focusing on the correct grand strategy is importand. Hawkins is not very helpful.