McCaffrey profits from the business of war

A report by David Barstow of The New York Times reveals how Barry McCaffrey, a retired four-star Army general, has parlayed his stature and influence into lucrative opportunities, including a consultancy for a military contractor interested in supplying forces in Iraq with armored vehicles.  Since 9/11, McCaffrey has "made nearly 1,000 appearances on NBC and its cable sisters, delivering crisp sound bites in a blunt, hyperbolic style. He commands up to $25,000 for speeches...His influence is such that President Bush and Congressional leaders from both parties have invited him for war consultations. His access is such that, despite a contentious relationship with former Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld, the Pentagon has arranged numerous trips to Iraq, Afghanistan and other hotspots solely for his benefit."