AF Academy General's Promotion Delayed By Senate

The Associated Press reported yesterday that in considering a list of 21 Air Force Generals nominated to receive a second star, the U.S. Senate dropped the name of Brig. Gen. Johnny Weida, the second in command at the U.S. Air Force Academy. Weida, a born-again Christian, has been criticized for speeches and memos that proselytized Academy cadets. A Senate Armed Services Committee spokesman said Weida is still under investigation and the committee generally does not act on nominees in that situation. The Air Force inspector general's office cleared Weida in June of six allegations, finding he did nothing wrong. These included his June 2003 guidance to cadets telling them they are "accountable first to your God", and his urging cadets and staff to pray. One additional charge remains under review.