Ralph R. Reiland

After two four-year terms as president of the United States, George Washington delivered some exceptionally sound advice in his farewell address in 1796, advice that’s been basically ignored. After expressing hope "that the free Constitution, which is the work of your hands, may be sacredly maintained," Washington, commander in chief of the Continental Army, referred … Continue reading “The First George W. on Blowback”

Ten days before the vote in the U.S. Senate to authorize a preemptive war against Iraq, a 90-page classified version of the National Intelligence Estimate, containing numerous qualifications and dissents on Iraq’s weapons capabilities, was made available to all 100 senators. It was the most comprehensive analysis by America’s intelligence agencies. Only six of the … Continue reading “Scowcroft Vindicated, Congress and White House Shamed”

SEA ISLE, NJ – There’s a simple ceremony in this ocean town on Memorial Day. People gather in the morning in the town square, taps are played, there’s a gun salute and then there’s a short walk to the beach, a block away. To honor the naval dead, flowers are placed in a row boat, … Continue reading “The Problem Is At the Top”