“Retired Top US General Milley’s Veiled Swipe at Trump Raises Eyebrows”

United States Top US general Milley takes apparent jab at Trump as he retires

General Mark A. Milley’s Retirement Speech

In a speech marking his retirement after a four-year tenure, General Mark A. Milley, the 20th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff in the United States, took an apparent swipe at former President Donald Trump. Milley stated that U.S. troops take an oath to the Constitution and not to a “wannabe dictator.” This remark drew an audible reaction from some members of the audience, highlighting the ongoing political divisions present in the country.

A Rocky Relationship with Trump

General Milley’s tenure as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff was marked by a complex relationship with Donald Trump. While Milley was nominated by Trump in 2019, he found himself in the difficult position of maintaining a relationship with the former president while also seeking to avoid appearing political. In 2020, Milley publicly apologized for joining Trump on a controversial walk to a nearby church, where protesters were tear-gassed and cleared to make way for a photo opportunity.

Protecting Family and Allegations of Collusion

Following his retirement, General Milley expressed concerns about his family’s safety after Trump suggested that he had colluded with China, an act that the former president claimed would have warranted death. These allegations and threats highlight the deeply polarized and contentious nature of American politics.

A Legacy of Service

During his tenure, General Milley served in war zones including Afghanistan, Iraq, Panama, and Haiti. He played a significant role in the killing of Islamic State head Abu Bakr al Baghdadi in 2019 and provided military assistance to Ukraine in defense against the invasion by Russia in February 2022. Milley’s contribution cannot be understated, but his tenure was also marred by the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan two years ago.

Biden’s Tribute and the Passing of the Torch

President Joe Biden’s Recognition of Milley’s Service

In acknowledging General Milley’s retirement, President Joe Biden praised him as a warrior who fearlessly served in dangerous war zones. He commended Milley for his unflinching dedication to duty, highlighting an instance where Milley ran across a bridge booby-trapped with mines to prevent two battle tanks from bringing wounded troops across.

The Appointment of General Charles Q. Brown

During the retirement ceremony, General Charles Q. Brown, an Air Force chief, assumed command as Milley’s successor. General Brown, who is the second Black officer to become chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, succeeds Colin Powell, who held the position two decades ago.

The Path to Diversity and Modernization

General Brown, in his address to the audience, outlined his goals as the new chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. He emphasized the importance of deterring aggression and being ready to fight when called upon. Additionally, he stressed the need for modernization within the U.S. military, focusing on new concepts and approaches.

A Key Milestone for Diversity

General Brown’s appointment as chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, combined with Lloyd Austin’s appointment as the first Black U.S. secretary of defense, represents a significant milestone for diversity within the highest ranks of the Pentagon. While the lower ranks of the military have long been diverse, the upper echelons have historically been predominantly white and male.

Conclusion

General Mark A. Milley’s retirement speech, with its apparent criticism of former President Donald Trump, highlights the ongoing political divisions within the United States. His tenure as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff was marked by both significant accomplishments and controversial moments. With General Charles Q. Brown assuming command, the Pentagon takes a step forward in diversifying its leadership. The challenges ahead for Brown include deterring aggression, modernizing the military, and navigating a politically charged environment. As the United States moves forward, it must strive for unity and inclusivity while confronting the complex issues and threats it faces on the international stage.