Topic: Military Leadership

A comparison is drawn between historical military leadership and a perceived modern trend of "covering your butt" to advance careers. While some active-duty personnel and officers privately encouraged Michael New to "hang in there," the institutional system is described as hostile to those who rock the boat. Colonel Ray, a Vietnam veteran and former deputy assistant secretary of defense, reportedly observed that this deterioration of integrity has reached the highest ranks of the officer corps.

Active-duty personnel and high-ranking officers have privately expressed support for Michael New, though many fear publicizing their stance due to career risks. A former Marine Corps colonel and Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense, Ray Howell, noted a deterioration in leadership integrity within the upper ranks of the military. This shift is characterized by a "cover your tail" mentality among officers who prioritize their retirements over standing up for their subordinates or constitutional principles.