Armchair general

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In unofficial military terminology, an armchair general is a somewhat derogatory term used to describe a member of the military in a high ranking position whose position is more bureaucratic than functional. Such an individual often possesses little combat or warfare experience if any. The term applies to Generals; some of whom never served in combat at all yet have attained high rank and carry out their duties in offices with significant staff, funding and paperwork. However the term need not apply solely to those with the rank of General and is a popular term often used among enlisted personnel and the media to describe high ranking officers especially those whose education or background comes from military academies and prior universities or those with privileged or wealthy families.

Origin[edit]

In 1967, New York Times correspondent Max Frankel wrote: "In most wars, the armchairs are full of generals refighting every battle."

Examples[edit]

  • George Marshall Once noted as the "organizer of victory" by Winston Churchill for his leadership of the Allied victory in World War II despite having never led troops into combat during either World Wars.