Gordon England, Jim Jones and Vern Clark take to the Op-Ed page of the Wall Street Journal to influence the debate. This is good stuff, but I remain concerned that such placements are serendipitous, and not the result of a well-managed information campaign. I believe we are in an absolutely crucial four to six month period, one in which a new SECDEF, a new CNO, a new CJCS, a debt ceiling debate and draw-downs from two counterinsurgencies create a witches brew of uncertainty and opportunity. Sitting back and comforting ourselves that "we've done really well in the last few budget cycles" is a recipe for a smaller, less influential, less global and less important Navy and Marine Corps. OSD, the Congress, and the Executive are all subject to influence, and that influence should come from as many sources as possible--academia, think tanks, defense intellectuals, former Navy officials, members of Congress--whomever, wherever. It is time for a true debate on strategy and resources, one in which the Services are permitted--no, encouraged--to make their best case. Only a multiplicity of voices calling for such a debate will bring it about, and I am confident American Seapower will emerge with reinforced prominence.
Bryan McGrath
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