I dusted off my old copy of Art of War, one of the most influential books ever written. Art of War, written by Chinese general and military philosopher Sun Tzu in the 6th century BC, presents what is thought of as a bible for military strategists and generals through the centuries. It’s an amazing book and its wisdom can be extended well beyond the military sphere – into business, personal life and work. It’s incredibly foresighted and complete.

General Stanley McChrystal is the American Commander in Afghanistan and therefore the most senior military person in the most important theatre of war the United States is engaged with currently. He recently gave a series of interviews with Rolling Stone magazine in which he is painted mocking his seniors in Washington and America’s partners in France, and questioning the American strategy in Afghanistan. In the world we live in, where media and perception and image are all so important in foreign policy and in war, the image portrayed that the American administration/military is divided plays right into the hands of its enemies.

Reading and hearing these reports made me think of Sun Tzu’s writing. The Art of War is full of wisdom, but this little nugget is a joy to read today:

"The general who advances without coveting fame and retreats without fearing disgrace, whose only thought is to protect his country and do good service for his sovereign, is the jewel of the kingdom."

McChrystal’s vanity knows no bounds. He is the military Commander in Afghanistan. He invited Rolling Stone to follow him for a month. Rolling Stone follows rock stars, not generals. McChrystal’s loyalty should be to his Commander in Chief and his country, not to his own reputation and fame.

This quote calls into question the American model of combining political leadership and military leadership in one, very interesting:

"He whose generals are able and not interfered with by the sovereign will be victorious"

One other, not specifically about McChrystal but the war in general:

"There is no instance of a nation benefitting from prolonged warfare."

Pay attention Obama. Show you’re a real military leader. It’s time to get rid of Stanley McChrystal, and time to find an appropriate end to this nearly decade-long war.