New Book
Okay, it's not "new." But it's new to me.
We had a discussion some months back in which I recommended a book called "See No Evil" by Robert Baer. It was around the time when Syriana came out, and I recommended the book not because it was a reflection of anything worthwhile in the movie, but because it was a good source for understanding some of what went right, and what went wrong in the Middle East.
I have just picked up a book called "Executive Secrets." It was written by a former intelligence officer named William J Daugherty. He has written several other books (one of his better works was "A First Tour Like No Other.") If his name sounds familiar, it may be because he testified before the House Subcommittee on the Middle East and Central Asia and the Subcommittee on International Terrorism. It might also be because he was among the hostages held for over a year by the Iranians during the Carter Administration. Regardless, the man is highly qualified to speak (or in this case, write) about the ins and outs of CIA covert action.
I have not read this book in its entirety, but I was compelled to tell you guys about it. I know there are not more than three or four of you who'll have any interest in reading it, because that's about the number of folks who participated in the original discussion. However, BoarSpear brought up the point back then that Bob Baer's book was pretty negative toward the CIA (and I agree, without enough personal knowledge of the topic to know whether any of it is justified or not). I started thinking about that, and I decided I was going to look around and see if I could find a book written by an equally qualified insider that maybe showed the opposite point of view. I think this is that book, but even more importantly, I think it is an important read for anyone who has ever been concerned with impropriety within the US Intelligence Services. Only four chapters into the book, I have already had my own eyes opened to a few things. And Boar, you're most likely going to find in its pages justification for every nasty thing you've ever had to say about the Executive Office, so in advance, you're welcome. However, I think it may also let some of the wind out of your notoriously conspiratorial sails as well. I'm interested to see what you think.
Anyway, all, I just wanted to post this because it is the other side to a debate we had a while back. And since I am constantly being reminded by Boar, treelizard, and some others here to look at those other sides, I figured I'd at the same time prove that I am trying harder to do so, and subject you people to it as well. Enjoy.
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05-16-2006, 11:30 PM
tommorow I'm callin Ernie and the Sickness.
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