Recently, a national newspaper printed two photographs, side by side. One was of Gen. David Petraeus and the other of Gen. Dwight Eisenhower. Petraeus’ jacket had medals and patches that went almost to his waist. Eisenhower’s jacket had none, except what looks like an identification.

This photograph package speaks volumes about a military commander and, in my opinion, a questionable leader. Forgetting entirely his recent transgression, Petraeus has done nothing but continue a useless war, no doubt in a very secure headquarters.

To hear him talked about as one of our great generals is just too much. He is so far behind George Washington, Ulysses Grant and Robert E. Lee, as well as JohnPershing, George Marshall, Omar Bradley, George Patton and even the great egotist Douglas MacArthur.

Let’s try and remember Eisenhower’s great comment, which none of our other military leaders would even say: Beware of the military industrial complex.

They are there and working.

Thomas J. Brazier

Waterville