including the defense secretary and key generals also participating by video. but the question is we haven't heard except for brief statements from defense secretary gates and we haven't heard from admiral mullen, we haven't heard from general petraeus who helped choose mcchrystal for this position. that is -- sort of a resounding silence. >> it is going to be important where the president makes his decision and announcement of the decision this afternoon. i come end him for taking action. any further delay is only going to impair the operation mission current will he put our kids and men and women serving in greater jeopardy. the decision time is here. with respect to secretary gates, admiral mullen, general of joint chiefs and others, i think it will be very important what the president's decision that he has their support, their -- very vocal and apparent support for the decision he will make. when i was at the pentagon, i had one rule. make no news.