[December 26, 2019] We all heard lately about the charges against U.S. President Donald Trump that he abused his power as the nation’s most senior leader. Less discussed, but what is seen as a growing concern is the abuse of power by senior military leaders. Having been a senior leader and been witness to many charges, investigations, and punishments, I thought now was a good time to give some of my thoughts on the matter.
“By ensuring that no one in government has too much power, the Constitution helps protect ordinary Americans every day against abuse of power by those in authority.” – John Roberts, Chief Justice of the United States
The ethics associated with leaders in all positions of power demand they stay true to the boundaries of their authority. Whenever the ethics related to the institution from which they operate are forgotten or ignored, leaders end up abusing their power. Thus, each leader must be grounded in a body of ethics based on moral principles and on the traditions of the groups to which they belong.
Ideas of the proper ethics are a subject that is as complex as it is varied.2 Yet, there is the correct expectation that everyone, regardless of position but especially leaders, understands and adheres to them. This contradiction explains why leaders are involved in abuses of their power.
Many institutions have specific rules and regulations that define the limits of authority and position. However, nothing as diverse as abuse of power can be wholly codified or even understood. That is why I saw senior military officers commit errors of judgment, inappropriately and often. However, there were times when senior officers violated the trust and confidence given to them by the people of the United States. The concern is severe and explains why the U.S. military devotes a large portion of time and energy to investigating such incidents.
The easy question without an easy answer is, “What can be done about it?” We know that the U.S. military has struggled with an embarrassing series of misconduct and behavior problems among senior officers.3 The solution has been to construct new mental health, counseling, and career management programs to shape stronger, more ethical leaders.
The U.S. Army plans to focus more on building character than berating bad conduct. I think this is the right approach.
“Competence is no longer enough. Character is as or even more important.” – Lt. Gen. Ed Cardon, U.S. Army
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Anyone remember the Pentagon Papers? That was a study in lessons of the Vietnam War, how the NYT published Top Secret info, and the US Supreme Court ruled that military secrets were irrelevant.
Christmas day may be over but it’s never time to give up on what the Christian holiday season is about. Keep up giving to others and caring about them. Show folks “how to fish” and don’t be so quick to “give them a fish”. Great being part of this blog by Gen. Satterfield. Have a wonderful time with your family and friends. The world is full of tragedy, so let’s make it worthwhile for everyone.
This is a slow-to-learn lesson for most people in the West because they are used to being taken care of by the govt. When that is the case, they remain children into adulthood. No responsibility means no meaning in life.
I hope that everyone had the best possible Christmas given the nuttiness happening with our political leaders. It is clear they care nothing about the average working, good family but only about their party’s extremists and themselves.
Great article on a topic that we need to have better info and better discussion over. The whole idea of ‘impeaching’ president Trump over things the Democrats don’t like is extremely harmful to the American people. When you weaponize a procedural rule, then trouble follows.
Yes, thanks Harry but I afraid this will not happen in our current political environment.
Good point, Harry and thanks.
Yes, and another great article by Gen. Satterfield. ?
The solution to abuse of power (wherever it may exist) is certainly within our purview and power to make happen. Your quote from Gen Cardone reflects that, I believe, in the push to character development. Remember, however, that there are many in psychology and the sciences that believe our character is BOTH inborn and developed.
We need to have a better understanding of what constitutes abuse of power. Gen. Satterfield has started a good conversation on it; now to push it a little further.
True, Willie but I don’t think it will happen.
Spot on comment. Thanks. And if that doesn’t work then kick ’em in the butt until it hurts and they wake up to the fact that people are not out to abuse people all the time like the Liberal/Progressive/commie pantiwasted morons think it is.
Ha Ha, thanks Old Warrior.
I heard of this Gen. Cardone, really smart guy! Thanks Gen. Satterfield and I hope you had a wonderful Christmas.
Lots and lots has been said about this idea of “abuse of power” and I think much of it is way overblown. True, some do abuse their powers and it is obvious but too many folks these days are hypersensitive and thus easily fall into the trap of blaming their failures on others with more power (read that as intelligence and get-up-and-go) than them.
Yes, Army Cpt, I agree with you that there are simply too many people looking for their participation trophy and are quick to blame outside forces for what they have failed to do simply because they are lazy.
True, Roger but I also think too many have bought into the idea that they are wonderful and the best thing around since sliced bread. They think just because they are present, that they should be doing great things. Reality is knocking at their door, but they are asleep.
We have a “participation” society. All you have to do is show up and you are rewarded. Wow. How crazy.
Good comment, insightful.