But you have to understand that there's a lot of disagreement at the senior military command level about the wisdom of a surge, if you will, or an increase.

NPR: Bush Expected to Announce Increase of Troops

And when the command did find out about it, I suspect, without knowing, the command at a low level was not eager to get these facts out.

NPR: Haditha Case May Test Military Justice

Allen lacks senior level combat command, he was the White House's top pick for the role, largely because of his experience as the deputy at Central Command.

WSJ: New Afghan War Leader Helped Nurture Sunni Awakening in Iraq