We asked Army Gen. David Petraeus, commander of US Central Command, whether he had, as we had been told, apologized to Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz for the “joke” Petraeus made about a USAF officer with his pony-tail swinging. He replied: “I did apologize to the CSAF. … Right after it was clear that what was intended in jest was seen by some, understandably, as disparaging. I’ve spent more than six of the last eight years in joint operations with all services, and I think most folks who have worked around me will regard me as a serious team builder. If you look at my remarks at the recent [Air Forces Central Change of Command], you’ll find my true regard for our Air Force.” (Petraeus’ AFCENT remarks)
Billy Mitchell: Lessons a Hundred Years Hence
Dec. 16, 2025
Exactly 100 years ago, on Dec. 17, 1925, Brig. Gen. Billy Mitchell was convicted by court-martial for violating an order that required approval before he could engage with the media. Mitchell’s provocative thoughts and unorthodox methods sought attention for a cause that he saw as uniquely American.
