Forgive This Fighter

George Tenet is worn. Three years of scars layer his speech. Since September 11, 2001, Tenet’s aptitude has been questioned. Since Iraq’s debilitation, his career has been assailed. Tenet has been vilified, denigrated, and maligned. Until Sunday, he has endured silently.

During his Sixty Minutes interview, Tenet was compelling. He rescinded no loyalty. He awarded no quarter. Tenet spoke evenly concerning his supporters and detractors. He was not self congratulatory. He was articulate and passionate. This conversation reaffirmed Tenet as both a terrorism expert and an exemplary public servant.

Ultimately, history will judge Tenet. However, he deserves a reprieve. September 11 and the Iraq catastrophe were not his fault. His judgments were involved. Yet, his was not the shaping vision. His was not commencing decision. Tenet deserves shared blame. With that stated, he does not merit condemnation.