David Petraeus on Saying 'Yes' to the President

The transcript discusses the rise to military leadership, focusing on the decision-making process when President Obama and Secretary Gates requested a military leader to command in Afghanistan. It compares the military strategies in Afghanistan and Iraq, highlighting the differences and challenges faced. The mission in Afghanistan aimed to halt the Taliban's momentum, develop Afghan security forces, and prevent Afghanistan from becoming a sanctuary for extremists.

What is the expected response when the President asks you to take on a significant military role?

• Ask for more details before deciding

• Immediately accept the offer

• Decline the offer

• Consider the offer and respond later

What is the speaker's approach to making military decisions?

• Guided by historical precedents

• Influenced by public opinion

• Driven by facts on the ground

• Based on personal opinions

How did the speaker view the possibility of replicating Iraq's success in Afghanistan?

• It was uncertain but possible

• It was impossible

• It was unlikely due to different circumstances

• It was highly likely

What was one of the main objectives during the speaker's mission in Afghanistan?

• To completely eliminate the Taliban

• To halt the Taliban's momentum

• To establish a new government

• To withdraw all foreign troops

What overarching goal did the United States have in Afghanistan according to the speaker?

• To ensure Afghanistan becomes a democracy

• To prevent Afghanistan from being a sanctuary for extremists

• To make Afghanistan a regional power

• To establish permanent military bases