US News

DUBYA SHIELDS RUMMY FROM ARMY BRASS ATTACK

WASHINGTON – President Bush yesterday threw his “full support” behind embattled Defense Secretary Don Rumsfeld amid an escalating campaign by some retired generals to force out their ex-boss.

“Secretary Rumsfeld’s energetic and steady leadership is exactly what is needed at this critical period. He has my full support and deepest appreciation,” Bush said in a statement.

He also rebutted charges that “Rummy” rides roughshod over military brass, saying, “I have seen first-hand how Don relies upon our military commanders in the field and at the Pentagon to make decisions.”

The surprise statement of emphatic support, issued while Bush was spending Easter weekend at Camp David, was a bid to put the kibosh on the highly unusual public revolt by retired generals – six so far.

Rumsfeld has locked horns with some subordinates over Iraq strategy and what critics see as inadequate forces and planning – and over his plans to remake and streamline the military, which has particularly upset some in the Army.