Don’t turn away from reforming military retirement benefits By Gen. James L. Jones (USMC, retired), Adm. Gregory Johnson (USNA, retired), Major Gen. Arnold Punaro (USMC, retired) and Gen. Charles Wald (USAF, retired)

DeM Banter:  If all of the sudden we are high-fiving ourselves for this great measure and budget cutting--isn't it interesting that no one is talking about the 900lb gorilla in the room or the very large pink elephant in the corner?  None of these distinguished gentlemen are affected by the budget cuts and if we …

Fighting al-Qaeda in Iraq is in U.S. interests By James M. Dubik

DeM Banter:  I know... we keep harping on this...but it is REALLY ALL ABOUT LEADERSHIP AND STRATEGY.  Here's the big problem...the enemy has a very well thought out strategy that is fluid and adaptable...and we have none.  The plan that Gen Dubik mentions below is something we have talked about for a long time.. AND...when …

Airmen to be evaluated on how they create positive work environment By Tom Roeder

DeM Banter:  I have been out of the office for a bit... but I did see the CSAF's email.  So we are looking to update our Performance Report system to grade "dignity and respect?"  Let me guess... it will be a Pass or Fail... and everyone will pass.  If you don't --it will nuke your career …

Inside the Box: People don’t actually like creativity. By Jessica Olien

DeM Banter...and I get so tired of hearing how we need bold innovative leaders that are willing to make decisions...are they rewarded?  Do we have the eco-system in place to even support them? View Original / The Slate In the United States we are raised to appreciate the accomplishments of inventors and thinkers—creative people whose …

US Foreign Policy: Spin, or Spinning Out of Control? by Harald Malmgren

DeM Banter:  Seems like a nice complimentary piece to the Amber Alert on US Foreign Policy from earlier today.  I can't help but believe... it is all about Greater Good LEADERSHIP, Strategy, Mission, and Vision.  When it becomes personal or about personal power...vice the greater good--it all gets sideways.  Can anyone in the US articulate …