Who was the Best Commander in Chief out of the last (5) Presidents & why?

COL Mikel J. Burroughs — Sat, 13 Jun 2015 13:30:59 -0400

Who was the best Commander in Chief out of the last five (5) Presidents? Forget their political party affiliation, forget their domestic agenda, and just concentrate on their military wisdom, foreign policy, and duties as the Commander in Chief.

Sorry the picture I pulled off the Internet (leftie, righty, etc...)

Who did you like serving under and who would have liked to serve under?

Mine is clearly George Walker Bush - right or wrong he sent a message after 9-11!

Where do you stand? Vote and comment! Please keep it professional - thanks

Response by CSM Michael J. Uhlig made Jun 13 at 2015 1:51 PM

CSM Michael J. Uhlig — Sat, 13 Jun 2015 13:51:15 -0400

Ronald Reagan, without a doubt!

Response by SSG Trevor S. made Jun 13 at 2015 2:10 PM

SSG Trevor S. — Sat, 13 Jun 2015 14:10:12 -0400

Ronald Regan knew how to use the Military when needed, but also knew the Military gave him a strong negotiating back ground to and used that successfully as well.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 13 at 2015 2:22 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 13 Jun 2015 14:22:14 -0400

Although I was not in, my father was when Reagan was President. He supported the military and did not back down. Best by far.

Response by SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL made Jun 13 at 2015 3:24 PM

SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL — Sat, 13 Jun 2015 15:24:57 -0400

Without a doubt the "Gipper and the Great Communicator" President Ronald Reagan, he transformed the military into a 21st century vision in respects to technology.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wt8y18YFH70

http://www.teapartytribune.com/2013/07/04/on-independence-day-a-soldiers-pledge/
President Reagan I quote,
"In this present crisis, government is not the solution to our problem; government is the problem. From time to time we’ve been tempted to believe that society has become too complex to be managed by self-rule, that government by an elite group is superior to government for, by, and of the people. Well, if no one among us is capable of governing himself, then who among us has the capacity to govern someone else? All of us together, in and out of government, must bear the burden. The solutions we seek must be equitable, with no one group singled out to pay a higher price."

Ronald Reagan A Soldiers Pledge Listen Learn Remember

A very inspirational speech by Ronald Reagan. This is what a President is supposed to sound like. Listen, learn and remember who we are!

Response by MSgt Robert Pellam made Jun 13 at 2015 3:48 PM

MSgt Robert Pellam — Sat, 13 Jun 2015 15:48:21 -0400

I am going to be a little different here. I am going to say HW Bush Sr.

My thoughts on it are this. As the soviet Union Collapsed, he kept his head, used excellent diplomacy and grace to mediate and keep the world peace. He could have went hog wild and piled dirt on them as they went but he didn't.

When push came to shove in the Middle East, He showed the US was not a push over. He demonstrated how the US could form a coalition, Band together many. Restrain Israel, and then retake Kuwait while defeating (Devastating) the Iraqi army.

Not bad for the only guy on the list to do just one term.

Response by Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS made Jun 13 at 2015 4:07 PM

Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS — Sat, 13 Jun 2015 16:07:59 -0400

This is actually a tough one.

I view Pres. Reagan much like our great generals. He had Vision, and the ability to share it with others I don't think has been replicated since. He saw America as a great nation, and knew exactly what our place was in the world.

Pres. G.H.W. Bush with his intelligence background made decisions which were correct even though we didn't see the wisdom until much later.

Pres. Clinton altered the way we viewed the presidency. I'm not sure if this is a good or a bad thing yet. Requires further thought. The presidency stopped being an institution, or a billet, and became about the man and the family. I think this more a product of the internet & news era catching up, than anything he did in particular, though he was the first to really "play the game" which is what made him successful at it. He was the first president I served under.

Pres. Bush loved America, and the American People, and the military. You could feel it. You could see it. Sure he made missteps. I think all presidents do. But I think he made them in the moment, based on what he thought was best for America, not what was best for George W. Bush. I don't think he ever worried about how he was going to be viewed in the outcome of things. For him it was Country First, Self distant last if at all.

Pres. Obama is hard for me to decide. He's charismatic, but because he's the sitting president, I cannot tell what his actual motivation is. I can't tell if he is pushing HIS beliefs, his party's goals, or what.

Response by SSG Laureano Pabon made Jun 13 at 2015 4:09 PM

SSG Laureano Pabon — Sat, 13 Jun 2015 16:09:39 -0400

I served under the following:
Gerald Ford POTUS 1974-1977 (Cold War)
Jimmy carter POTUS 1977-1981 (Cold War)
Ronald Regan POTUS 1981-1989 (Cold War)

I have to agree with you COL Mikel J. Burroughs, 911 required action that was needed in the eyes of us all.
I do believe every one agreed to act.

Response by CMSgt Mike Esser made Jun 13 at 2015 6:27 PM

CMSgt Mike Esser — Sat, 13 Jun 2015 18:27:20 -0400

Reagan, hands down
http://www.reaganfoundation.org/tgcdetail.aspx?p=TG0923RRS&lm=reagan&args_a=cms&args_b=1&argsb=N&tx=1736

Response by CMSgt Mike Esser made Jun 13 at 2015 6:28 PM

CMSgt Mike Esser — Sat, 13 Jun 2015 18:28:07 -0400

Reagan.
http://www.reaganfoundation.org/tgcdetail.aspx?p=TG0923RRS&lm=reagan&args_a=cms&args_b=1&argsb=N&tx=1736

Response by LTC Kevin B. made Jun 13 at 2015 7:21 PM

LTC Kevin B. — Sat, 13 Jun 2015 19:21:10 -0400

Best CinC? I'd have to say GHWB. At least he knew how to fight a war. Send in overwhelming force, with a clear mission, and get the job done. Of course, he didn't have to deal with asymmetrical warfare like the two most recent CinCs, so how effectively he would have handled that would be pure speculation on my part. Regardless, I appreciated his approach.

Response by Lt Col Timothy Parker, DBA made Jun 13 at 2015 7:23 PM

Lt Col Timothy Parker, DBA — Sat, 13 Jun 2015 19:23:13 -0400

I served under the first three presidents listed. In my opinion Reagan ended the cold war by out spending the Soviets, finding a partner who understood world politics (Gorbachev), and got the INF treaty in place - the first one that placed people in country under the treaty (me being one of them).

That said, I thought Bush 41 and 43 were strong Commander-in-Chiefs as well.

Response by LTC Ed Ross made Jun 13 at 2015 8:09 PM

LTC Ed Ross — Sat, 13 Jun 2015 20:09:20 -0400

Ronald Ragan hands-down. I served in the Reagan Administration and have first-hand experience with the great things he accomplished and what he did for the US military. One example, after the Vietnam war US military personnel no longer wore their uniforms in Washington DC. As soon as he took office Reagan put the military bag and uniform and restore their pride. You on the Cold War what more do you have to say?

Response by SSG Roger Ayscue made Jun 13 at 2015 8:13 PM

SSG Roger Ayscue — Sat, 13 Jun 2015 20:13:41 -0400

He said what he meant, meant what he said stared the SOVIETS in the Eye and that SOB Blinked first. Reagan BEAT the Soviets. "Nuff Siad.

Response by 2LT Scott Armstrong made Jun 13 at 2015 8:44 PM

2LT Scott Armstrong — Sat, 13 Jun 2015 20:44:21 -0400

Ronald Reagan's peace through strength doctrine worked and he defeated our enemy without firing a shot. He also rendered all of the tactical studying I did as a company grade officer useless. Not much chance of a mechanized WWIII on the steppes of Europe after the Gipper brought The Soviet Union to its knees.

Response by SFC Tyrone Almendarez made Jun 13 at 2015 9:07 PM

SFC Tyrone Almendarez — Sat, 13 Jun 2015 21:07:45 -0400

Bill Clinton! We exponentially grew as a country and he left a surplus of money not jizz

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 15 at 2015 11:02 AM

CW5 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 15 Jun 2015 11:02:23 -0400

I joined under Bill Clinton and was a PFC through SGT under his tenure. We always trained and our equipment worked although we didn't always have enough money to buy the little light bulbs for the switchboard. It was enough for me!

Then GW Bush took over the seat. Things still hummed along and then he had the misfortune of being in the seat when 9/11 happened. He stood firm and planned out a course of action which we undertook: fight them at a place of our choosing. From that point on, we had lights for my switchboards, new barracks, a post-911 GI Bill, and renovated HQ buildings. Impressive but irresponsible IMO. We did a lot of construction that frankly could have been scaled down a bit. (Not his fault, just part of the money flowing in).

Under Pres. Obama we still have new construction going on and we are still fighting the same bad guys. The only difference is the letter by the name.

It is hard to set a standard as a CIC since only one of those listed had to respond to an attack on our soil. The rest either could be argued as setting the stage or accepting the leftovers. What I can say is that I always had 2 (sometimes 3) hots and a cot and my family was taken care of.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Jun 15 at 2015 12:36 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Mon, 15 Jun 2015 12:36:06 -0400

President Reagan was able to bring down a huge communist regime without firing a single bullet.

Response by LTC Bink Romanick made Jun 15 at 2015 5:21 PM

LTC Bink Romanick — Mon, 15 Jun 2015 17:21:48 -0400

I served under 6 presidents and the only one that I hated was Nixon. I suppose it would be Reagan because of the Big 5 but I wasn't thrilled by his Iran-Contra issue. Bush senior made the smart decision NOT to go to Baghdad , smartly . Carter gave me a 13% raise. There's something I liked about all and things that I didn't

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 16 at 2015 9:35 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 16 Jun 2015 09:35:36 -0400

It's hard to say. Every administration has made choices I like mixed with choices I thought were awful. For pure defense-budget gravy I'd have to say Reagan, but I'd want to divert money from the "Star Wars Missile Defense" project that never happened to more practical things that the troops could realistically use.

Response by PO2 Todd Voge made Jun 16 at 2015 10:32 AM

PO2 Todd Voge — Tue, 16 Jun 2015 10:32:59 -0400

I was lucky to serve under President Reagan from '86-'88. He was, in my view, the BEST President of my generation. He didn't back down. He represented American views very vocally to foreign leaders. He didn't take any crap from anyone. He was called the "Great Communicator" and I believe he had the best delivery of speeches of any leader I've seen.

I believe the U.S. is a FAR better place for having President Reagan in office. A real Conservative and a true leader. We haven't seen a CinC since that could even come close.

Response by COL Mikel J. Burroughs made Jun 16 at 2015 10:52 AM

COL Mikel J. Burroughs — Tue, 16 Jun 2015 10:52:48 -0400

Well the votes are in and there is an overwhelming percentage for the "Gipper" President Ronald Reagan with over 61% of the votes. George Herbert Walker Bush is coming in second with over 14% of the vote, followed by his Son George Walker Bush with 10%. There was some really good comments and feeback on all the Commanders in Chiefs. Thanks for taking part and providing comments (good, bad, and ugly).

Response by SrA Johnathan Kropke made Jun 16 at 2015 10:58 AM

SrA Johnathan Kropke — Tue, 16 Jun 2015 10:58:10 -0400

I would've liked to serve under Reagan. To me he seemed like a good POTUS.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 16 at 2015 10:59 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 16 Jun 2015 10:59:55 -0400

I really think the responses here are being skewed by political ideology. Personally, I'm a bit left of center and I think the current commander-in-chief's thoughtful and deliberate approach is great.

However, it's too soon to really judge him. And, I'd have to go with George H.W. Bush. That guy was really pretty intelligent when it comes to foreign policy. His handling of the Gulf War was amazing. And, when you consider that he had many of the same people in his administration that George W. later had in his and he managed all of them and decided policy (rather than the other way around), I think you've got to give him the nod.

Response by SFC(P) Aaron Fore made Jun 16 at 2015 11:41 AM

SFC(P) Aaron Fore — Tue, 16 Jun 2015 11:41:36 -0400

Hands down the best of the best.

Response by LTJG Robert M. made Jun 16 at 2015 1:24 PM

LTJG Robert M. — Tue, 16 Jun 2015 13:24:48 -0400

Ronald Wilson Reagan - Hands Down, no competition

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 16 at 2015 10:39 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 16 Jun 2015 22:39:02 -0400

I'm torn, honestly I was too young to really pay attention during Reagan and just starting to care during Bush 41. I cast my vote for Reagan. Enough time has passed to see the ripples from his decisions and make an informed decision. Since the question is specifically about being commander in chief, everything I've heard or read about his tenure leads me to believe he maintained a steady hand and consistent message regarding the military and it's use. Bush 41 comes in at a close second. Maybe with a second term he might have beaten Reagan, especially with how he was able to pull a coalition together and manage it during desert storm.
I think it's a few decades too early to rate Obama and Bush 43. The repercussions of 9/11, Bush's "skip forward" plan of cancelling (at least for the army) the Comanche and Crusader in favour of other newer technologies that haven't materialised and Obama's handling of the past two terms haven't played out yet.

Response by CW3 Kevin Storm made Jun 30 at 2015 7:43 PM

CW3 Kevin Storm — Tue, 30 Jun 2015 19:43:33 -0400

Thinking back I have served under all of these Presidents. Reagan was the most generous to the military, but the wall came down on Bush the elders watch. Likewise the great draw down started not under Clinton, but under Bush the Elder. I would go with Reagen

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 16 at 2015 8:38 AM

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 16 Oct 2015 08:38:43 -0400

President George H. Bush ... Just because he was there with me start from 911 ... from stories? maybe President Reagan.

Response by CW4 Guy Butler made Oct 26 at 2015 6:32 PM

CW4 Guy Butler — Mon, 26 Oct 2015 18:32:05 -0400

Served under all of them; going with G.H.W.Bush...who should've gotten a second term (thanks, Ross).

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Oct 26 at 2015 6:50 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Mon, 26 Oct 2015 18:50:40 -0400

Ronald Reagan brought down an empire with his words.

Response by CMSgt James Nolan made Nov 5 at 2015 1:50 AM

CMSgt James Nolan — Thu, 05 Nov 2015 01:50:34 -0500

GW. I really felt that he loved the troops. And he stood up.

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 5 at 2015 5:19 AM

CW5 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 05 Nov 2015 05:19:41 -0500

I enjoyed serving under President Reagan. I remember his famous line to Gorbachev. And I think we received some healthy pay raises during the Reagan years.

Response by Capt Walter Miller made Nov 5 at 2015 7:45 AM

Capt Walter Miller — Thu, 05 Nov 2015 07:45:16 -0500

Last 5?
Reagan – Gave US property to the Mullahs in Tehran; swore never to negotiate with terrorists but did exactly that, turned tail and ran after maladroit foreign policy helped bring on the Beirut bombing, conducted illegal activity in Central American and the Middle East, took credit for a 70 year process – the collapse of the USSR, and oh – tripled the national debt in 8 years.

Bush 41: Read my lips: “I am an idiot.” Gave a perceived green light to Iraq to invade Kuwait.

Clinton – Did have sex with that woman. Allowed the Glass-Stegal Act to be repealed – passed in the 1930’s to prevent what happened in 2008, forcing Bush 43 to sign the $700B TARP Act.

Bush 43 – didn’t finish obligated commitment to the Air National Guard. Never took a flight physical after the institution of urinalysis. Ignored warnings of impending terror attacks in the US. Invaded Iraq with no plan past the first 3 weeks. Make the lack of aiding New Orleans a national disgrace. Advocated tax breaks for the rich just before embarking on huge expenditures for war.

Obama gets some hits.

Tepidly campaigned in 2010 and lost control of the House. I heard last night that -900- Democratic state house seats have been lost across this broad land of ours since President Obama took office.

But President Obama is clearly the best president in fifty years. I was in a KFC a couple of nights ago and I found the card of which I attach an image. As I like to say, the Rethugs hate hate hate to see help wanted signs, but when you see something like this, it is definitely a good sign for the economy.

Response by Capt Walter Miller made Nov 5 at 2015 7:55 AM

Capt Walter Miller — Thu, 05 Nov 2015 07:55:06 -0500

"Mine is clearly George Walker Bush - right or wrong he sent a message after 9-11!"

Yeah, unfortunately the message sent to the world is that -he- and the US Military are grossly incompetent.

The much touted surge was a total failure. If it had succeeded there would be no ISIL or ISIS. All the Surge did was give a decent interval for the US Military to duck out of Iraq without –looking- like a total disgrace. And your hero Bush signed the surrender documents – I mean the SOFA with the Iraqi government that ensured failed states and disaster in the region.

One reason that President Obama is the best president in 50 years is because he has so far refused to put U.S. troops in a meat grinder the way Bush did, when they -cannot-possibly- have a good effect on events.

“Now, it will take time to eradicate a cancer like ISIL. And any time we take military action, there are risks involved -- especially to the servicemen and women who carry out these missions. But I want the American people to understand how this effort will be different from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. It will not involve American combat troops fighting on foreign soil. This counterterrorism campaign will be waged through a steady, relentless effort to take out ISIL wherever they exist, using our air power and our support for partner forces on the ground. This strategy of taking out terrorists who threaten us, while supporting partners on the front lines, is one that we have successfully pursued in Yemen and Somalia for years. And it is consistent with the approach I outlined earlier this year: to use force against anyone who threatens America’s core interests, but to mobilize partners wherever possible to address broader challenges to international order.” -- President Obama 9/14/2014

Smart guy.

Walt

Response by SA Harold Hansmann made Nov 5 at 2015 12:52 PM

SA Harold Hansmann — Thu, 05 Nov 2015 12:52:02 -0500

None of the above

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 5 at 2015 1:06 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 05 Nov 2015 13:06:09 -0500

President Ronald Reagan..... one answer. Bedtime for Bonzo!

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 5 at 2015 1:11 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 05 Nov 2015 13:11:08 -0500

If we limit it to their military wisdom, foreign policy, and duties as the Commander in Chief, you have them listed worst to best.
Best to worst: Reagan, GHW Bush, Clinton, GW Bush, Obama.

Response by Sgt Kelli Mays made Nov 5 at 2015 1:19 PM

Sgt Kelli Mays — Thu, 05 Nov 2015 13:19:12 -0500

Ronald Reagan...with his soft spoken words...his wisdom and keen way of diplomacy....and bringing down the Berlin wall....and during his presidency the economy was stable.

Response by COL Mikel J. Burroughs made Nov 5 at 2015 1:47 PM

COL Mikel J. Burroughs — Thu, 05 Nov 2015 13:47:20 -0500

Great Quote by the Gipper: " Trust, but verify. "

Ronald Reagan

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 5 at 2015 2:36 PM

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 05 Nov 2015 14:36:42 -0500

The Honorable President of the United States, Ronald Wilson Reagan!

Response by SSG Todd Halverson made Nov 5 at 2015 2:40 PM

SSG Todd Halverson — Thu, 05 Nov 2015 14:40:52 -0500

He kept the Russians in check during the Cold War and worked to unify Germany and other countries. He used the Military only when necessary and mostly just as a deterrent not as an aggressive force. GWB is a close second because of the way he handled and responded to 9/11 and subsequent attacks against the US or its allies.

Response by MCPO Roger Collins made Nov 5 at 2015 5:40 PM

MCPO Roger Collins — Thu, 05 Nov 2015 17:40:23 -0500

Without a doubt. Brought the cold war to a close and never had hostile action. Investment in the military and didn't have to send our troops to their death.

Response by SSG Gerhard S. made Nov 5 at 2015 6:37 PM

SSG Gerhard S. — Thu, 05 Nov 2015 18:37:53 -0500

President Reagan is my pick.. I served under Pres's Reagan, Bush 41, Clinton, Bush 43. I chose Pres Reagan because he made the Military feel good about being an American, and even better about serving in the Military. Service members felt he held the Military in high regard, and that he REALLY cared about us. Probably, one if the things I remember most is the fact that he learned quickly from his mistakes.. The rapidity with which he pulled out Marines out of Beirut after the Barracks bombing showed that he understood there fact that we did NOT have a workable understanding of the enemy there, and wasn't willing to waste Military lives to learn by trial and error.

I saw much of the same genuine reverence toward the Military from Pres Bush 43, but it appears he lacked the ability, at times, to rapidly adapt to unexpected changes.

Response by MSgt John Taylor made Nov 5 at 2015 8:34 PM

MSgt John Taylor — Thu, 05 Nov 2015 20:34:48 -0500

I thought the Bush Sr. was the best. He may have seemed meek, but he wasn't. The economic benefits of the 90's was directly related to his policies. He would not have had the "don't rock the boat" foreign policy of the Clinton administration.

Response by SGT Jerrold Pesz made Nov 5 at 2015 8:57 PM

SGT Jerrold Pesz — Thu, 05 Nov 2015 20:57:15 -0500

I served under LBJ. However my choices would have been Reagan or GW Bush.

Response by SSG Michael Scott made Nov 5 at 2015 9:12 PM

SSG Michael Scott — Thu, 05 Nov 2015 21:12:05 -0500

Regan, he was a true leader, a REAL Commander in Chief who did not say America is sorry.

Response by SSG Audwin Scott made Nov 6 at 2015 9:50 AM

SSG Audwin Scott — Fri, 06 Nov 2015 09:50:37 -0500

Response by 1LT Aaron Barr made Jan 15 at 2016 10:44 AM

1LT Aaron Barr — Fri, 15 Jan 2016 10:44:30 -0500

Reagan, no question, he fixed the worst economic mess since the Great Depression, laid the seeds for the defeat of the Soviet Union, revitalized the military and restored our self-confidence as a nation.

Response by SPC Margaret Higgins made Jan 15 at 2016 8:54 PM

SPC Margaret Higgins — Fri, 15 Jan 2016 20:54:27 -0500

Mikel, COL Mikel J. Burroughs, I am going to have to say President Ronald Reagan. I'll be truthful with you; I don't know much about politics. (I know I liked the late President John F. Kennedy very much; and I would have voted for Senator John McCain- had I not changed addresses and been allowed to vote.)
But my father, the late Hon. James Sloane Higgins, was appointed by President Reagan to be a Federal Administrative Law Judge. He really liked the late President Ronald Reagan as well.

Response by Capt Walter Miller made Jan 15 at 2016 11:25 PM

Capt Walter Miller — Fri, 15 Jan 2016 23:25:34 -0500

Reagan was one of the very worst presidents, not the best.

He never made a tough decision. He always weaseled out.

Walt

Response by SSG Don Maggart made Jan 16 at 2016 7:51 AM

SSG Don Maggart — Sat, 16 Jan 2016 07:51:46 -0500

He had the Balls To Stand for the American People and the Vision to See a Better Future too bad Congress drug him down... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tpH5L8zCtSk

U.S. Armed Forces - We Must Fight - President Reagan (HD) 2015

Video by Matthew Worth (Canadianmatt3) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/canadianmatt3 US Armed Forces "A Time For Choosing" Speech By 40th President o...

Response by Capt Lance Gallardo made Jan 16 at 2016 8:08 AM

Capt Lance Gallardo — Sat, 16 Jan 2016 08:08:36 -0500

Hands down Reagen, because he rebuilt the Military, and greatly improved its morale and standing in America after our loss in Vietnam, and the disastrous Rescue Attempt of the Hostages in Iran. He was also my first CinC. Joining the US Military became during Reagen's tenure, once again an Honorable Choice in the AVF world, and people you knew generally thought you had made a good choice with your life. GHWB (Bush Senior) might have been my second choice, he was smart enough not to go all the way to Baghdad, and take out Sadam, because he understood that Sadam, as brutal and nasty as he was, kept the Iranians in check.

Reagen was not evil, IMHO, or dimwitted as some here say. After the Marines got blown up in Lebanon in 1983, Cap Weinburger the SecDef under Reagen, wanted to bomb the hell out of the Bekaa valley training camps of Hizbollah. It was Reagen who called that off, because he did not want to get the US Military in the quagmire (as we are now) of a protracted Middle East, endless sectarian war. I am still not sure that Reagen did not know about the Iran Contra Deal, worked out criminally by Ollie North and friends, but we never found a smoking gun and clear and convincing evidence of his malfeasance while in office.

People also fail to give Reagen credit for the Arms race and buildup, that many historians believe helped hastened the end of the USSR (along with the Afghan War, and a good many other pressures on the Evil Empire, which Reagen correctly named the USSR that under Uncle Joe Stalin murdered more of its citizens than even the Nazis did).

BTW the question was about who of the last five was the best. If you went back 60 years I would have chosen JFK who kept us from Nuclear Armageddon, during the Cuban Missle Crises, despite really bad, bad, world ending in Nuclear War type advice, from his senior Military advisers (Joint chiefs), and Senior Civilian advisers who wanted us to invade Cuba thinking there were less than 10K Soviets on the Island, when in fact there were more than 50K armed with tactical nukes, and orders to use them against US troops if we had invaded, and a good deal of other crises that were well managed, like the Sino-Indian War.

If the question had been best president in the last hundred years, it would have been FDR hands down for me for the leadership and competency he gave the US during WWII and the depression. And best CinC ever, no doubt Lincoln, for preserving the Union.

Response by PO2 Steven Erickson made Jan 16 at 2016 10:27 AM

PO2 Steven Erickson — Sat, 16 Jan 2016 10:27:52 -0500

I proudly served in Ronny Ray-Gun's 600-ship navy. We were "deep black and seldom came back" (bubblehead for "haze gray and underway"). We kicked ass, took names (and hull numbers) and tracked every damn'd thing the Soviets tried to sneak past us. I spent more time on station off the coast of Kamchatka than I spent in home port of San Diego.

We had supplies, maintenance funds, decent pay, complete benefits, and under his leadership, the US Military took back the trophy of the world's greatest military (we "surrendered" that following 1975 - and it WASN'T the military's fault).

I LOVED MY JOB (nuke electrician on fast attack submarine on the West Coast), but, unfortunately, I do not have the personality to suffer through the "Navy Way"...

And anyone who dares disparage Reagan's work? Well...(initiate Chicago accent) you's and me's gonna have "issues" on dat...

Response by CPT Jason Mitchell, MBA made Jan 16 at 2016 11:58 AM

CPT Jason Mitchell, MBA — Sat, 16 Jan 2016 11:58:26 -0500

In my opinion, GHW Bush was the best CinC. He was the only one who served in combat (aerial combat in WWII), the only Commander to lead during a major military offensive (Gulf War) since Vietnam, and based on his memoirs and biographical book: one of the most thoughtful and careful Presidents to serve in the recent era. I agree that Reagan was a great man and was able to accomplish many feats that likely created situations in which America could thrive until today, but GHW Bush was a good man deep within his soul. He knew how to implement conservative values while maintaining his humanism and was a fantastic leader. Unlike his son, GW Bush, GHW Bush realized that invading Baghdad and removing Saddam would create a power vacuum between the Sunni and Shiites; essentially creating what you see today with the rise of the Jihadi, Islamic Caliphate loving ISIS turds. He might not have had a mighty presence, nor a manly speaking voice, but he had served during the last major war (WWII) and was part of the "Greatest Generation". That's my 2 cents.

Response by SN Greg Wright made Jan 16 at 2016 2:22 PM

SN Greg Wright — Sat, 16 Jan 2016 14:22:11 -0500

The Gipper, hands down. Last REAL president we had.

Response by MSG Gerry Poe made Jan 16 at 2016 3:22 PM

MSG Gerry Poe — Sat, 16 Jan 2016 15:22:31 -0500

President Reagan was a good leader, he utilized his military leaders like they should be.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 16 at 2016 3:42 PM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 16 Jan 2016 15:42:10 -0500

If we're going solely by the criteria you laid out then GHWB would probably be the best CIC out of the five. He effectively led the country though Desert Storm. Out of the presidents I've served under (Bush and Obama), Obama is leaps and bounds the better CIC although GWB has his good qualities.

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Jan 16 at 2016 7:12 PM

LTC Stephen F. — Sat, 16 Jan 2016 19:12:43 -0500

Hands down it was POTUS Ronald Reagan who had the courage, determination and wisdom to lead this nation while confronting Iran and then Soviet Bear COL Mikel J. Burroughs
One of the disadvantages of the new Homepage is that we see discussions without any idea that they are surveys which means I responded without seeing the survey choices. Therefore I submitted the above comments again- this time actually voting.

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Jan 16 at 2016 7:13 PM

LTC Stephen F. — Sat, 16 Jan 2016 19:13:44 -0500

Hands down it was POTUS Ronald Reagan who had the courage, determination and wisdom to lead this nation while confronting Iran and then the Soviet Bear COL Mikel J. Burroughs.
I served under the following US Presidents: Gerald Ford; Jimmy Carter; Ronald Reagan; George H.W. Bush; William Jefferson Clinton, and George W. Bush in uniform.
I concur with the responses and votes of SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL Sgt Richard Buckner SSG Gerhard S. COL Jon Thompson CSM Michael J. Uhlig CW5 Private RallyPoint Member Sgt Kelli Mays MAJ Private RallyPoint Member SSG Roger Ayscue PO2 Steven Erickson MCPO Roger Collins 1LT Aaron Barr SSG Todd Halverson MSG Gerry Poe SSG Michael Scott MAJ Ken Landgren

Response by COL Jon Thompson made Jan 16 at 2016 7:17 PM

COL Jon Thompson — Sat, 16 Jan 2016 19:17:13 -0500

For me, it was Ronald Reagan. He was the one who made serving respectable again. I graduated from high school in 1981 so many of my formative years were in the 1970s. While not fully aware of the state of the Army then, I knew it was not something that a lot of people aspired to be. The Soviet Union was on the march and then came the Iran hostage crisis and Desert One debacle. Reagan came in with a breath of fresh air and changed the Nation's attitude towards the military in many ways. He made it respectable to serve and raised the military's morale.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 16 at 2016 11:48 PM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 16 Jan 2016 23:48:29 -0500

I'm not old enough to remember Reagan or Bush 41, so I would have to say that Bush 43 is the best president in my memory.

Response by SSG Leo Bell made Jan 17 at 2016 12:28 PM

SSG Leo Bell — Sun, 17 Jan 2016 12:28:40 -0500

I'll have to say the late President Ronald (Ray Gun) Reagan was the best. He had America's back. He wasn't afraid of what would happen. I joined the military in 89 but I remember him well. He was a good actor and a great president. I know I always say that in order to be president you needed to have served in the military, but I take that back when it comes to president Reagan. President Bush the first one I admire because he did serve. I had a good time in the military when he was in office. I can't say anything bad about him, plus he gave the military the yearly raises so you could afford to live while in the military. President Clinton I could go back and forth on. I think he was and okay president. I think him for his time in the Guard although it was made a big deal out of if he finished his contract or not. I know I was upset at some of the things that went on in our military while he was in office ( Somila). I got respect from me though when I saw AF1 fly into Bragg the day after we had a accident there. Now President Bush Jr. I was scared while he served because we were always in a conflict with a country over police actions. Then the wars happened and I can not say he was wrong for going to war. If you mess with America tour going to get hurt. He was one who said you attack us we will destroy you. That's just how I felt about things at that time. I was done while he was in office.

Response by PV2 Scott Goodpasture made Jan 17 at 2016 1:27 PM

PV2 Scott Goodpasture — Sun, 17 Jan 2016 13:27:08 -0500

Bush sr. He got the worlds support took care of business didn't get a bunch of us killed in the process and was smart enough not to leave a power vacuum thereby destabilizing the region. I salute H.W.

Response by LCpl Cody Collins made Jan 17 at 2016 1:32 PM

LCpl Cody Collins — Sun, 17 Jan 2016 13:32:20 -0500

Ronald Reagan by far. I served under his 8 years as president .

Response by LCpl Cody Collins made Jan 17 at 2016 1:36 PM

LCpl Cody Collins — Sun, 17 Jan 2016 13:36:39 -0500

Nobody but President Reagan, under his watch he put the hammer down on all terrorist and would be Despots! The didn't have time to plot a 9-11, because we bomb them back to the stone age.

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made Jan 17 at 2016 1:56 PM

SSG (ret) William Martin — Sun, 17 Jan 2016 13:56:52 -0500

Its not the current one and its not Clinton.

Response by SFC Pete Kain made Jan 17 at 2016 2:12 PM

SFC Pete Kain — Sun, 17 Jan 2016 14:12:35 -0500

Ronald Regan, cold over, we won. nuff said.

Guess you had to be there to see that.

Response by SrA Edward Vong made Jan 17 at 2016 5:28 PM

SrA Edward Vong — Sun, 17 Jan 2016 17:28:17 -0500

Clinton was my favorite, but I'm going to have to give this title to Ronald Reagan.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 17 at 2016 6:24 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 17 Jan 2016 18:24:35 -0500

I'm not that old. I served under Clinton and George Dubya but based on all the historical evidence Reagan would probably be the best. He invested in the military after the post Vietnam 70's, increased pay and exuded this tough guy persona when dealing with the Soviets. His policies are another story but he was a great CIC.

Response by PO1 Kerry French made Jan 17 at 2016 6:59 PM

PO1 Kerry French — Sun, 17 Jan 2016 18:59:24 -0500

I would say, strictly from a military/foreign policy perspective: George Washington- NP (Revolutionary War) Jefferson- D (Barbary Wars/translating the war doctrine of the enemy: Qur'an) Lincoln- R (suspending Habeas Corpus during the civil war) FDR - D (WWII, internment of Japanese), Kennedy - D (Cuban Missle Crisis) Reagan (Cold War) Bush I (Gulf war) Bush 2. Obama has been a national defense failure. I served under Reagan, Bush, Clinton, Bush.

Response by CPT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 17 at 2016 10:41 PM

CPT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 17 Jan 2016 22:41:18 -0500

Every president since Ronald Reagan has been searching for their Berlin Wall moment. They're 0 for 4.

Response by SSgt Jim Gilmore made Jan 18 at 2016 5:08 AM

SSgt Jim Gilmore — Mon, 18 Jan 2016 05:08:13 -0500

A subjective question for sure but Reagan was instrumental in rebuilding the military after the draw down after Vietnam. Bush 41 sort of continued what Reagan started. Clinton kept needed funds form the military when and where he could. Bush 43 at least had the smarts to let his military commanders do what they needed and gave them the necessary tools to do the job. Obama has single handedly all but totally decimated the military by firing any and all commanders who disagreed with him. I fear we lack sufficient leadership from the standpoint leaders are walking on egg shells to assure they don't piss off the POTUS. If I must pick one - Ronny Ray Gun....

Response by SGT Robert R. made Jan 18 at 2016 6:43 AM

SGT Robert R. — Mon, 18 Jan 2016 06:43:38 -0500

President Reagan. He spoke softly and carried a big stick.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 18 at 2016 7:28 AM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 18 Jan 2016 07:28:41 -0500

Bombing of Marine barracks in Beirut, Reagan is a coward. He didn't get revenge for the Marines. I guess individual bias clouds people memories. Never forget Bombing of Marine barracks in Beirut.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 18 at 2016 7:38 AM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 18 Jan 2016 07:38:37 -0500

Bombing of Marine barracks in Beirut. Raegan is a coward, instead of taking revenge for the Marines who died in that terrible attack, Raegan pulled the troops out. I guess when the gander is biased as this crowd, you gloss over facts. Bombing of Marine barracks in Beirut, we will never forget. Moreover, I can't answer the question now, because it is too early to tell how GWB and Obama's policies will pan out. Ask me again in five years, but I do know that Reagan is not what people are selling, because I am not buying it.

Response by Sgt Joe LaBranche made Jan 19 at 2016 11:26 AM

Sgt Joe LaBranche — Tue, 19 Jan 2016 11:26:04 -0500

I would say Ronald Reagan. He was a proactive support of our military and veterans. He respected and honored those who served and wasn't afraid to show his appreciation.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 20 at 2016 9:10 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 20 Jan 2016 21:10:18 -0500

Obama is a putz...

Response by 1stSgt Steven Sauer made Jan 20 at 2016 10:09 PM

1stSgt Steven Sauer — Wed, 20 Jan 2016 22:09:30 -0500

Best Commander in Chief a GI could ask for. Gave us a proper pay raise. (by the way, I'm a leftie also)

Response by SSG Samuel Sohm made Jan 22 at 2016 12:34 PM

SSG Samuel Sohm — Fri, 22 Jan 2016 12:34:36 -0500

Andrew Jackson, but I voted for Bush Sr.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 22 at 2016 2:47 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 22 Jan 2016 14:47:00 -0500

No explanation needed. It's been covered on nearly EVERY other comment here.

Response by PO3 Sherry Thornburg made Jan 22 at 2016 9:43 PM

PO3 Sherry Thornburg — Fri, 22 Jan 2016 21:43:17 -0500

Reagan was the Best President I served under, but George HW Bush was a good second.

Response by COL Jeff Williams made Jan 24 at 2016 12:34 PM

COL Jeff Williams — Sun, 24 Jan 2016 12:34:10 -0500

Served through all and without a doubt, Reagan.

Response by SP5 Mark Kuzinski made Jan 26 at 2016 8:41 AM

SP5 Mark Kuzinski — Tue, 26 Jan 2016 08:41:08 -0500

Reagan!

Response by SSG Roger Ayscue made Feb 3 at 2016 10:47 PM

SSG Roger Ayscue — Wed, 03 Feb 2016 22:47:44 -0500

RONALDUS MAGNUS! Even DEAD, He is more inspiring than the "Anointed One"

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 5 at 2016 9:15 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 05 Feb 2016 09:15:30 -0500

I'll say Ronald Reagan although I was just a kid when he was president. I had to do some research. But I have to admit that when Bush went on TV and told Saddam and his sons they had 24hrs to get out of Iraq it gave me chills.

Response by SSG Rafael R. Rodriguez Sr. made Nov 15 at 2021 1:36 PM

SSG Rafael R. Rodriguez Sr. — Mon, 15 Nov 2021 13:36:44 -0500

Yep Ronnie Reagan and his Reaganomics and as a Hollywood Star. And "Say No to Drugs Program" with his wife.