This probably has no place here....

[hotwine]

But I feel the need to comment on the passing of MG (ret) Alexander Lebed, arguably one of the finest Russian troop commanders of modern times. Long disdainful of politics, he seemed to be trying to learn the art by serving as governor of Siberia, where he was killed in a helicopter crash a couple of days ago. Revered by his troops, "with a voice so deep it seemed to originate in the earth beneath his feet", he was once quoted as having said, "He who laughs last fired first!" Those who would study military leadership should study Lebed, as well as Patton. Rommel. Lee. And John J. Tolson. Prost!