What is the militarys role in the decision to go to war?

[KyleCM]

After reading Paul Yingling's article and the most recent New York Times "Challenging the Generals" it begs the question. What is the role and responsibility of the senior military leaders in the advice given to the executive branch of the government on whether or not the coutry should go to war? If the generals do speak up, and the president ignores theor advice, what should they do then - salute and follow orders, resign en masse or criticize the president publicly?

Chuck

[kit]

The military's role is to advise the political leadership HONESTLY, and that's the key word.

If the civilians reject their advice and take the nation to war anyhow, what else is there for good officers to do but salute and carry on? Fall on their swords?

[Rob Thornton]

If you are interested in this I recommend you pick up H.R. McMaster's "Dereliction of Duty", I think because of its subject and what is now known about it, it offers valuable insights to civil-military relations.
Best Regards, Rob