One may assume. The problem then is compounded by the fact the president picks the secdef, and is more or less able to fire anyone showing an ounce of 'disloya

One may assume. The problem then is compounded by the fact the president picks the secdef, and is more or less able to fire anyone showing an ounce of 'disloyalty', as we've seen happen in recent weeks. Twice if memory serves me right. So all but the very dumbest would curate their military leaders before attempting boldness.