April 2007
Tour of Duty
"Our forces are stretched. There's no question about that."
—U.S. Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates announcing that all active-duty soldiers serving year-long tours in Iraq and Afghanistan must serve an additional 3 months
On April 11th, Defense Secretary Robert Gates announces a 3-month extension of duty for all soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan. That same day, the Washington Post reports that at least three retired four-star generals have rejected offers to become the nation's war czar, including Retired Marine Gen. John J. Jack Sheehan, who explained: "Rather than go over there, develop an ulcer and eventually leave, I said, 'No, thanks.'" Earlier in the month, in an effort to transform Baghdad's war-torn image, Republican Senator John McCain enjoys a televised stroll through the city's open-air market, telling reporters "Never have I been able to go out into the city as I was today ... The American people are not getting the full picture of what's happening here." Some Democrats, including Illinois Senator Barack Obama, argue the Congressman's security detail — 100 soldiers, 3 blackhawks, 2 Apache gunships and a flak jacket — contradicts his claim.