Robert Gates makes a poor decision of publishing

the book so soon, while he is still too emotional to think clearly.

His book confirmed that Obie promised to end the wars, and took steps to do so.

Which also said a lot about him.  I do respect him for the love he has for our troops, but why did he stay for so long yet was unable to change things?

There was a conflict of interest,  Gates wants to win the war, Obie wants to end the war.  Someone is going to be disappointed.