Retired US general criticizes McCain's military experience

0 Comments | AFP, June, 2008

WASHINGTON (AFP) — Retired US General Wesley Clark on Sunday said Republican White House hopeful John McCain lacked executive experience to be president, in rare criticism of the Vietnam veteran's military service.

Clark told CBS television that McCain was a hero for enduring years as a prisoner of war in Vietnam "but he hasn't held executive responsibility.

"That large squadron in the Navy that he commanded -- that wasn't a wartime squadron. He hasn't been there and ordered the bombs to fall."

Clark, former NATO supreme allied commander, said McCain's combat experience as a fighter pilot did not make him more qualified to be president than Democratic candidate Barack Obama.

"Well, I don't think riding in a fighter plane and getting shot down is a...