NYT-Bush Honors 3 Ex-Officials Instrumental to Iraq Policy

[Chicago Democrat]

Bush Honors 3 Ex-Officials Instrumental to Iraq Policy
By DAVID STOUT

Published: December 14, 2004


WASHINGTON, Dec. 14 - President Bush awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom today to three men who he said had "made our country more secure and advanced the cause of human liberty": Gen. Tommy R. Franks, George J. Tenet and L. Paul Bremer III.

(snip)

"These three men symbolize the nobility of public service, the good character of our country and the good influence of America on the world," Mr. Bush said at a White House ceremony as he bestowed the awards, which were established by President Harry Truman to recognize civilians for contributions during World War II.

"At a recent high school reunion, Tommy's old principal told the general, 'You weren't the bright bulb in the socket,' " Mr. Bush said, alluding to General Franks' early indifference as a student. "To which the general replied, 'Ain't this a great country?' "

(snip)

Later, the chief White House spokesman, Scott McClellan, rejected any suggestion that Mr. Bush was "trying to make some sort of statement" about his foreign policy by honoring three men associated with the campaigns in Iraq and Afghanistan and the struggle against terrorism.

Rest at...

http://www.nytimes.com/2004/12/14/politics/14cnd-meda.html?hp

[Chicago Democrat]

1. Tenant provided fake intelligence, Franks allowed massive looting and

Bremmer dissolved the Iraqi Army.

For these incompetences, they give them a medal.

[dennis4868]

3. Tenant provided fake intelligence.....

THAT BUSH/CHENEY ASKED FOR!

[Supersedeas]

5. Disinformation and Political Covergirl Awards for all

[Sara Beverley]

2. This is "in your face" leadership. Rewarding their failures.

It says "fuck you" to the dead soldiers and the families who mourn them and to the rest of us.

[Chicago Democrat]

4. Its surreal. It debases all prior winners.

It sucks.

[Sara Beverley]

8. "Surreal" That's the word for it!

I knew someone would hit it on the head! Thanks. :hi:

[moondust]

6. Bribes.

Intended to:

1...Help Tenet forget the truth.
2...Help Bremer forget the truth.
3...a. Reward Franks for being an unabashed campaign whore.
.....b. Help Franks forget the truth.

[Chicago Democrat]

7. Spot on

:)