U.S. relationship with Iran to be Viewpoints topic
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Zinni’s distinguished career makes him an ideal speaker on leadership, says RW-C resident George Van Sant, who spearheaded arrangements for the presentation. A 1965 graduate of Villanova University, Zinni rose rapidly through the officer ranks in the Corps. He commanded Marine Corps units at every level, and saw combat service in Vietnam.
During the 1990s Zinni had a series of assignments that involved him deeply in the Middle East, including three years as commanding general of U.S. Central Command, the joint command responsible for U.S. military operations in that region.
Zinni retired from the Marine Corps in 2000 but remained active in service to his country. In 2002 President George W. Bush appointed him special envoy to Israel and the Palestinian authority.
Zinni’s career has not been without controversy, Van Sant said, “primarily because, as he’s shown in the past, he’s willing to offer his judgments even when they’re unpopular.”
That quality was best displayed when the Bush administration was preparing for war in Iraq. Zinni expressed reservations about the invasion. His experience in the region convinced him that the conflict would be long and bloody. But he stood his ground, Van Sant reports, and he continues to encourage senior military officers to provide their best advice on military matters regardless of the political climate.
This year’s Viewpoints series concludes on May 3 with a talk by Dr. John Schnorrenberg, retired professor of art history, who will speak about rural landscapes.
These free Viewpoints presentations begin at 11 a.m. and are held in the auditorium at RWC at 132 Lancaster Drive, Irvington. Attendees are invited to remain after the presentations for a complimentary buffet luncheon. Reservations are required, as space is limited.
To give everyone interested an equal opportunity to reserve a spot, those wishing to attend are asked to call 438-4000 on or after March 22 for the April 5 event. RWC maintains a waiting list and will honor reservations in the order received. Separate reservations must be made for each event.
