McChrystal's balls (as published 6/28)

There are two factors at work in the dismissal of General Stanley McChrystal. First, the founders, fearing the excessive power exercised by King George III, constructed a constitution which ultimately put control of the military in the hands of the people. Over the years, it has been customary for the military to execute its duties as prescribed with complete deference. It is not appropriate, therefore, for any soldier to criticize the decisions of those who are higher in the chain of command; and, competent or not, the President is at the top. It's a matter of discipline. The General was clearly out of line.

Second, the General had no choice but to resign, especially since he further showed an outstanding lack of common sense in dealing with, and allowing his staff to speak to, "Rolling Stone," the main content of which is pop culture. I cannot imagine why a four-star general, a man steeped in international military affairs, would think that the regular readers of the magazine would understand or appreciate the intricacies of military tactics or political infighting. They probably skipped over the war talk to see what was happening in the lives of Lindsay Lohan, Britney Spears and Michael Jackson's illegitimate sister.

Apparently, someone just wanted to damage the war effort, and was thwarted in the attempt. Curses! Liberal meanness foiled again.

BY THE WAY: If you're going to Arizona to partake of Black Bear Diner food in Goodyear, Gilbert, Lake Havasu City, Bullhead City, Glendale (larger), or the one in Phoenix(?), don't forget to carry your "papers."