Politic?

This is a blog dedicated to a personal interpretation of political news of the day. I attempt to be as knowledgeable as possible before commenting and committing my thoughts to a day's communication.

Wednesday, May 26, 2010

Return: To Basic Training

Brig.-Gen. Daniel Menard has the deep affectionate regard and respect of his peers. And, needless to say, of the men under his command. Who are many indeed.

Brig.-Gen. Daniel Menard is described as an "outstanding, dedicated and exceptional leader". Which is hugely commendable, because this is precisely the type of individual whom Canadians want to rely upon for the safety of our troops and for the measure of security that we are meant to feel.

This man is a highly decorated commander. And quite obviously, a man of stout principle. When he erred, he took complete responsibility.

Holding himself to a military, ethical and moral standard no less than he does the men under his command. Should any of those enlisted men serving under him somehow manage to clumsily discharge a firearm at a most inconvenient and high-profile event, they would be held to account.

And since Brig.-Gen.Daniel Menard embarrassed himself by doing just that very same thing, he held himself to account. To do less would be to do a grave disservice to the Canadian military, to himself and to the esteem in which he is held.

The man has been fined $3,500 at a court martial that he himself initiated. He pleaded guilty of neglect in handling his C8 rifle.

As Brig.-Gen.Menard explained the situation, he was attempting to put his weapon on safety when, confoundingly, two rounds were fired at Kandahar Airfield as he was preparing to board a helicopter with his boss, Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Walt Natynczyk.

Now that truly is a head-banger of an embarrassing moment, anyone would agree.

The shots - as Brig.-Gen. Menard held his weapon at waist level - landed in between two armoured vehicles by the runway, where two Blackhawk helicopters were parked, and where ten soldiers were within range of fire.

Later, when the rifle was inspected by a weapons inspector, it was proclaimed to be in fine working order.

"If I knew exactly why it got fired, I don't think I would have been here today. Two rounds were fired from my weapon. That's what I know for sure." Well, for sure, Brig.-Gen. Daniel Menard, it was a regrettable incident-accident.

One never to be forgotten, and one which will provide more than ample fodder for good-natured guffaws over tankards of brew.

An unblemished military record will now carry a charge of neglect causing prejudice to "good order and discipline", and that is unfortunate. On the other hand, what's done is done, and one must carry on. Bravely. Hats off and a salute to your impeccable character.

And kindly get thee to a reprise of basic training in weapons-handling, good man.

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