Are General Officers being treated like political figures? In what way?

2015-02-20T19:19:42-05:00

It appears that when General Officers speak things get done now. Regardless of the power and influence that one might have, our military has rules to follow and they are there to ensure it's done accordingly. Has anyone been an aid to a General Officer?

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 20 at 2015 8:26 PM

2015-02-20T20:26:53-05:00

I haven't been an aid to a General Officer, but I do believe that many Generals are political figures, especially the more senior ones in the DoD. I guess it doesn't take a keen eye to discern that. The senior military leaders in DoD are, in my opinion, caught between a rock and a hard place. First, they must advocate for their "constituency," the men and women who serve under them. Second, they must answer to their political bosses. Are they treated like political figures? Most likely, yes, because they are political figures.

Response by COL Jean (John) F. B. made Feb 20 at 2015 9:06 PM

2015-02-20T21:06:06-05:00

I was an Aide for a US Army Lieutenant General (3 star). Not sure I understand your comment or question.

Response by TSgt Joshua Copeland made Feb 20 at 2015 9:50 PM

2015-02-20T21:50:01-05:00

General in the 3-4 star billets are political appointees. I haven't been an aide, but I ran the exec comm flight for a MAJCOM and NAF for 6 years so I did tons of direct GO support to included TDY support.

Response by 1LT Nick Kidwell made Feb 21 at 2015 11:44 AM

2015-02-21T11:44:03-05:00

Um. Being an officer is politics in the first place, but until a certain point it's primarily politics within and associated with your chain of command.

However once you make O7 and up, with your level of responsibility and authority, you are in essence a politician.

Response by SGT Jim Z. made Feb 21 at 2015 11:55 AM

2015-02-21T11:55:20-05:00

I have not been an aide to general officer but I have worked and supported an Army MACOM (4 Star) CG Commo team for many years. Each GO is different some are what we call low maintenance and then their are the opposites. My opinion of the GO/FO community is the good ole boy/girl and very political. I know a MG who should have made three star based on his knowledge and experience but his candor and up front personality derailed him.