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The Daily Nightly began on May 31, 2005. As Brian wrote in his first post it aims to provide a narrative of the broadcast day and a window into the editorial process at NBC Nightly News. Brian weighs in every weekday and NBC News correspondents and producers post regularly.

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Change in command

Posted: Wednesday, April 23, 2008 3:57 PM by Barbara Raab
Filed Under:

By Brian Williams, Anchor and managing editor

Today's announcement about the change in this nation's combatant commanders was extraordinary, for several reasons.
To review: Gen. David Petraeus (photo: Petraeus with Brian in Iraq in March 2007) goes from Iraq to Central Command (with command over the war effort in Iraq and Afghanistan, and then some). Importantly for the General (and his wife and two children), this will bring him home (Tampa, Florida) after over a total of four years overseas.



He'll be replaced by Lt. General Ray Odierno (photo: Odierno with Brian in Iraq in March 2007), a New Jersey native whose son lost an arm while fighting in Iraq. Odierno is just home for two months and had been nominated to become the Vice Chief of Staff of the Army.

That nomination will now go to Lt. General Peter Chiarelli (in photo, left, with Brian in Jan. 2005), the gregarious and well-liked three-star long-rumored to be in line to replace Petraeus.

I was struck by how personal Defense Secretary Gates's remarks were: much talk about the families of these General officers, appropriate recognition of their various moves, overseas service and towering sacrifice. As I watched the news conference this morning, I also felt privileged to have spent time with all three Generals during our various journeys to Iraq.

Most of my time with Chiarelli and Odierno was onboard helicopters (Odierno is rather well-known for perferring that the doors be removed from his Blackhawk -- he likes the fresh air! -- though I doubt he'll be allowed that luxury, for security reasons, in his new job). And during my last visit with Petraeus in Iraq, he hosted a very nice dinner for my late friend, retired Army four-star General Wayne Downing and me, in his personal residence.

Like Ike, Bradley, Marshall and Patton before them, these Generals will come to define this era in the American military. While today's announced re-shuffling is, of course, subject to the wishes of the next President, all three moves are a recognition of the strength and experience of our current slate of combattant commanders.

And then there's politics. Our director of polling, Sheldon Gawiser, says it looks like a single-digit victory last night for Senator Clinton. Sheldon believes when the last vote is counted, she will have won by 9.2 percent -- the number, as I write this, stands at 9.4 percent. The race goes on.

Also in tonight's broadcast, today's Congressional tribute to Dr. Michael DeBakey.

My thanks to those who wrote to point out our error in the Soyuz graphic depiction. We would not have caught the error without your sharp eyes, and we appreciate you pointing it out. It was corrected for later feeds of the broadcast after the initial 6:30pmET airing.

We hope you can join us for tonight's broadcast.

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Comments

Where the FLDS and Nevada in my posting yesterday are concerned, go to http://www.deseretnews.com/dn/view/0,1249,635186759,00.html for my correction.  Where Clinton's winning is concerned, that just delayed the inevitable and Obama will lose with Nader in the race that's for sure.  All the best with today's and future broadcasts, Mr. Williams.

Jamie, Salt Lake, Utah (Sent Wednesday, April 23, 2008 4:07 PM)

I want to discuss the NY Times article on military analysts, because I think it goes to the heart of the credibility of network news, including the NBC Nightly News.  In the run up to the Iraqi War, NBC featured tens of "military analysts"--all of them advocating the invasion and supporting the Bush policy of preemptive war. NBC and the other networks bear a large share of the blame for what has become an endless nightmare--killing thousands, maiming thousands more, costing US taxpayers billions, ruining our reputation with allies and much of the rest of the world.  I want to get a pledge that NBC will begin shifting to a credible coverage, including doing investigative reporting on the endless classified documents that hide American policy from voters.  We are living increasingly in a national security state, not a democracy.  

Robert Ludwig, Evanston, IL (Sent Wednesday, April 23, 2008 4:13 PM)

In a press release dated April 24, 2006, Pelosi said, “Democrats have a commonsense plan to help bring down skyrocketing gas prices by cracking down on price gouging, rolling back the billions of dollars in taxpayer subsidies, tax breaks and royalty relief given to big oil and gas companies, and increasing production of alternative fuels.” The letter cited policies put in place during the GOP control of Congress that the Speaker claimed had raised prices on  American consumers to benefit oil companies.

Gas has gone up $1.18 since you promised to help the American people Nancy. I'm not sure how much more of your help we can take. Please stop trying to help us Nancy. Guess you could always mandate another 10% of ethanol. There are some poor people around the world who just aren't dying fast enough.

Dave, Tn (Sent Wednesday, April 23, 2008 4:50 PM)

Today I just really wanted to leave a message for Matt, 19, San Diego:

I seriously doubt that you have ever or would ever offend anyone who posts on this blog.  I brought up the age thing the other day, because I find it completely charming that you include your age in your signature.  Only a young man of 19 would be unselfconscious enough to reveal his age!  Ha, ha.  When you get to be an "old woman" like myself, you sometimes develop a bit of a complex.  Like Anna, I am (barely) old enough to be your mother.  Also like Anna, your youthful exuberance reminds me of myself when I was your age.  It's good to be around that kind of energy.  Keep doing your thing, and maybe one day we'll be posting on your blog!

Good night all, but especially to The Usual Suspects!

XOXO

lnp, 37, leonardtown, maryland, usa (Sent Wednesday, April 23, 2008 5:14 PM)

Good Evening Mr.Williams, It is impressive that you spent time with all three Generals on your trips to Iraq. I certainly hope this conflict comes to a peaceful conclusion soon because this war seems to be never ending. Peace needs to come soon for everyone involved. Looking forward to the broadcast Mr.Williams. Peace to all!

Lots of Love to Laurel, Jackie and Stephanie!
Be Well Always!

Lisa McNeil,Alpharetta,Georgia (Sent Wednesday, April 23, 2008 5:15 PM)

Good Evening Mr.Williams,Great broadcast as usual this evening. The report concerning the promotions of General Petraeus and General Odierno certainly will give these men much responsibity over the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. General Petraeus being over Central Command of both Iraq and Afghanistan is a huge job and all the violence in Afghanistan with the Taliban and al-Qaeda seems to be an endless battle. Both regions have stretched our brave US troops to the limit and their is so much at stake. It does show that things will stay the course as it is stated with this administration,but I hope that during tenure of these General's time in their position that things go forward towards peace. Both have served six years of tumultous times in these region. Maybe someday soon they will enjoy the peace of the region. The report by Mr.Savidge concerning the rice shortage and how consumers at Sam's Club and Costco are limited to a certain number of bags shows how the food crisis is felt everywhere. Although, the experts were stating in the report that shortages do not exist sometimes it can be confusing. High prices for oil effects the cost of food and it goes on and on. Hopefully, it will come down soon. One thing I will say is when you mentioned an Atlanta suburb it looked like the Sam's Club where Mr.Savidge was standing was located in Alpharetta. Of course, I don't know for sure, but he has reported sometimes from around this northern suburb before. On another note I liked the piece by Anne Thompson from Costa Rica about what the people are doing to protect the land. They have really made a difference in the rainforest area. Also, on a humurous note it is good the red lights mystery is solved. Sometimes I think people have way too much time on their hands to do something like this. Finally, great tribute to Dr.Michael DeBakey. Very deserving of the Congressional Gold Medal. Great work! Thank you for the broadcast Mr.Williams. Peace to you and to all!

Lots of Love to Laurel,Jackie and Stephanie!
 

Lisa McNeil,Alpharetta,Georgia (Sent Wednesday, April 23, 2008 7:26 PM)

Brian somebody up there likes me and Hillary, I feel great almost 28 years old again almost. It's was interesting to see money doesn't always make a winner. It's the heart, truth, understanding and faith that really is the winner.

I'm not a General Petraeus fan I guess I know to much from the inside as a Military Mom. As our troops are suffering, lack of supplies, poor health care, lost of some benefits continued death everyday and even suicides unreported. I'm just not one to be all that happy about a General Petraeus new job. Makes sense because General Fallon disagreed with the President about bombing Iran so General Petraeus gets his job. Now how many Generals have been replaced because they openly disagree with Bush/Cheney's orders?  Looks like General Petraeus will be around until the end of Bush's term, as he does what he's told and doesn't speak up for the troops. The only honest information about Iraq comes from Richard Engel who just tells the truth.

Brian with Professor Yoo using Executive Privilege I will use that the next time I get a parking ticket, it works as we see with so many crooks in the White House. I guess the janitor has Executive Privilege too. With the gas prices now over 4 dollars a gallon here in California the Oil companies will again get bigger profits, while some Americans are left to choose between food or gas. Good news for the McCain supporters he will continue the Bush/Cheney policy so we can look forward to 6 or 7 dollar gas prices and for me the first US Depression of my life time. The US Great Depression of 1929 didn't end until World War 11 and of course the Great Deal. Well there will be no Great Deal this time as we don't have a President right now who is that smart nor one that works for the interest of the American people.

See you at 6:30 pm California time.
Hi to my friends Lisa, Laural and Stephanie  

Jackie Rawlings 62 Riverside California (Sent Wednesday, April 23, 2008 8:03 PM)

Brian I just got some good news from a friend in the UK. Thanks to President Jimmy Carter we might just see peace in the Middle East after all.
Israel has passed a message to Syria that it would withdraw from the Golan Heights in return for peace, according to a Syrian government minister.

I knew if a Senior Statesmen and President like President Carter could help resolve the problem that's been going on since 1967.  I hope I get more good news this is great.

See ya!!

Jackie Rawlings 62 Riverside California (Sent Wednesday, April 23, 2008 8:18 PM)

I found it curious that Nightly News this evening (and PBS) reported the results of the Pennsylvania primary percentages in tenths of a point.  Is this a shift to more precise numerical reporting and will all future election results be reported in a more precise fashion (no rounding)?  Also, shortly before the primary, MSNBC was reporting a "statistical dead heat." I have not yet heard why polls for this race had the candidates much closer in projected totals.  

Paula, Arlington, Texas (Sent Wednesday, April 23, 2008 8:26 PM)

Thanks for the information Brian.  I missed the broadcast tonight.  Sorry I am trying to keep this body in good shape.  Duty calls!

Happy Wednesday to everyone!  

Anna (Sent Wednesday, April 23, 2008 9:38 PM)

With all respect to Jackie, I had to roll my eyes when I heard Clinton won by even 1% last night.  Just let me say I've not made up my mind yet, but I can't see how the continued oneupmanship of either candidate is good for their party.  Gag me now, but I see the GOP winning again if this keeps up.

Congrats to all 3 generals.  Well-earned honors by each of them.  I'm sure their families are thrilled for them!

Laurel, your post amuses me and made me laugh. Am I a usual suspect? Are there blue lights behind me?

The other day I was at the gas station being robbed by  GULF when it wouldn't read my card.  I went into the store and the clerk asked to see my ID.  She took one look at my license and laughed.  "That can't be right", she said.  I assumed she meant my weight, as I haven't weighed that little since high school...when I first got my license.  No, she said.  She couldn't believe how old I was because I looked so young!  She made me laugh - old at the ripe old age of 33!  

I remember working my first job as a CNA at age 19.  Oh the teasing I got for being a kid!  No one could believe that a "child" of my age could be so nice and "mature".  You've got a good head on your shoulders, Matt; I can tell by your posts.  Keep your head high and don't ever let age dictate to you where you're going in life.  

As I get off my little podium of passing advice, I will raise my glass to the other usual suspects!  Halfway to Friday, girls & Matt!

Stephanie-Umbro, Maine (Sent Wednesday, April 23, 2008 9:47 PM)

Brian, I can't resist, this primary is beginning to remind me of the weather in New Mexico in the spring. If you don't like it, just wait 5 minutes and it will change.  

Lisa, I once had a lovely lady from Shanghai China as a roommate and learned more than I knew one could learn about rice. It seems that there is more than one type, and as you know from the store more than one length of grain. The type affects taste, ie jasmine, which is said to taste a bit more flowery. Length affects how "sticky" the rice is. The problem is many cultures like different types of rice, hence some (those who like Asian rices) are seeing shortages, while those who like American style rice (grown mostly in California and called Calrose) are fine. Part of the issue is that rice is now imported far more than it use to be, to serve not only immigrant populations, but the growing demand from restaurants and American cooks trying new foods. From what I saw around the Web today, the limits were on the 25 lb bags bought mostly by restaurants. You may see an increase in price at your local Kroger's  but since most of what we buy there is
American grown, most of that increase, like everything else, will be driven by gas prices rather than the shortages. ( And to be perfectly frank, I like being a foodie, but while I understand the difference in texture I honestly don't detect that much difference in flavor)

ladytechie Farmington NM (Sent Wednesday, April 23, 2008 11:53 PM)

Brian, you owe your viewers an apology for Tuesday's broadcast--specifically the last three segments you presented.  First you treated us to some footage of President Bush dancing in New Orleans.  I guess you're trying to become the new youtube.  Then you aired a segment from that morning's "Today Show" featuring Laura Bush and her daughters gossiping about Jenna's upcoming wedding.  That yenta-fest made "The View" look like "Charlie Rose".  Then you gave us 2 1/2 minutes of the First Lady walking Ann Curry around the Bush ranch in Crawford, Texas.  This segment was completely devoid of any news content, but Ann Curry looked as if Einstein himself was talking to her about nuclear fission.  This was pitifully similar to a segment you aired last October, in which Laura Bush gave us a less-than-fascinating guided tour of the White House grounds.  Will Mrs. Bush be conducting any more tours for Nightly News viewers?  We can only hope.  

I know that for Earth Week, you're making a big show of "going green".  (Golly, the MSNBC logo in the lower left corner is actually colored green, so I guess you MUST be helping the ecology.  Here's an interesting story you could air:  What's the eco-footprint of GE, your parent company?)  However, I think you're taking this thing a bit too far.  "Going green" includes recycling, but does Nightly News really need to recycle old garbage from the "Today Show"?

Meanwhile, viewers of Tuesday's 7:00 PM (Eastern) edition of BBC World News got a real treat.  While Katty Kay was broadcasting live from the Clinton headquarters in Philadelphia, Andrea Mitchell was clearly visible for the entire segment (in the lower right hand corner) putting on her makeup.

Norman Charles, NYC (Sent Thursday, April 24, 2008 6:36 AM)

Mr. Williams, I am confused. You stated that the lights in the Phoenix sky were merely baloons and flares. So, what about the lights in Florida? Any idea of their source?

JD (Sent Thursday, April 24, 2008 11:32 AM)

Hi Norman:

I hope you are having an awesome day in NYC.   I loved all the segments on the Bushes with Ann Curry the other day.   Funny the Blog Moderator must have lost my post because I paid a compliment to President Bush and what a wonderful fine family he had including the First Lady and the lovely daughters and it never posted.  Maybe my ISP messed up too!  Go figure!    I found the report refreshing and a bit of good news for the day.    Keep Laura, Jenna and Barbara coming!

@ Stephanie:

A few days before my 40th birthday I was carded for wine at a local wine shop.  I looked at the young man and said something like are you kidding me?  He said I am new here and I wanted to make sure you were not eligible for the "senior discount" with the grey hair.   I was appalled.  The next day I started coloring my hair and haven't stopped!    Matt, was that you at the wine shop?  Just kidding.  

@ Matt, do you read "The Onion?"  

I want you all to know I may be 40 something but I am hip and very, very cool and informed.    

Happy Thursday to all!

Anna (Sent Thursday, April 24, 2008 1:00 PM)

With regard to your speech to New York University journalism students, most of your nonprofessional online competitors are not sitting in efficiency apartments (you seem to have disdain for someone who cannot afford better accommodations) in bathrobes, but many of these amateurs  are better journalists than you even if they should happen to be sitting naked on a toilet.

Blaine Kinsey, Montpelier, VT (Sent Wednesday, April 30, 2008 10:21 AM)



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