Gates Will Inherit A “Cowed Military” From Rumsfeld...

The New York Times THOM SHANKER and MARK MAZZETTI November 8, 2006 10:29 PM

If confirmed as defense secretary, Robert M. Gates would take control of a military whose ground forces are stretched and strained by a costly and bloody war and whose officers yearn to give unvarnished military advice without fear of reprisal.

Addressing their needs, hearing their views and gaining their trust are widely viewed as crucial first steps toward any change Mr. Gates has in mind for prosecuting the war in Iraq.

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