I get it. But are you defending a political calculation or a soldier's loyalty to his country. I wouldn't expect Powell to do other than what he did. But any soldier will suffer the consequences of such a move. Look at what was done to Wes Clark for telling the House and Senate in 1998 that invading Iraq was a really stupid idea. A writing toll at the New York Times named Adam Nagourney turned it into support for the IWR. and the Democratic pack pounced on him. But noting will save McCain from his bitter whimpering tour this week, I would actually be embarrassed if McCain was elected President, and scared about his ability to actually function. I don't mean that with disrespect for the man's age, only a real world understanding that ssome times the American people have to say no, Thank You.