Special trust and confidence

The certificate of commission for officers in the armed forces of the United States of America reads, in part, "Know ye, reposing special trust and confidence in the patriotism, valor, fidelity and abilities of __(Full Name)__, I do appoint __Him/Her__, __Rank__ in the [branch of the military]."

It seems that special trust and confidence is being sorely abused all too often of recent, with two recent illustrations: Major Thompson USMC in the sex with Naval Academy students scandal and Captain (formerly Rear Admiral) Gilbeau USN of the "Fat Leonard" scandal. Are these outliers or are they indicative of deeper, more serious problems within the armed forces' corps of officers?

I would like to think these are separate, disgusting aberrations. But additional evidence argues against this hope: Air Force officers cheating on nuclear weapons proficiency exams; Army former Lieutenant General Lewis (aide to SecDef) using government credit cards at strip clubs; Army Major General Haight misusing government resources (and having an extramarital affair); and the reports that  hundreds are being investigated in the "Fat Leonard" scandal.

Something is seriously wrong.  For those of us entrusted with the moral and physical responsibilities of leading our men and women in uniform, the special trust and confidence stated in our certificate of commission means we must be held to a higher standard. When a commissioned officer fails to meet that standard, then the punishment must be - say again - must be commensurate with that higher standard.  Punishments seem all too light, meaning senior leadership is failing.

And all the services must critically review applicants  to ensure only the right type of individuals are considered for commissioning; train them in and demand of them the expectations and demands of the highest levels of behavior and performance of duty; advance only those meeting the highest of standards; and require them to self police their fellow officers, adjudicating and severely punishing those who fail to live up to the special trust and confidence granted them.

Only the best must be commissioned and entrusted to lead our men and women of the military into combat.  Anything less fails to meet the standard of special trust and confidence.