David Petraeus

On perception vs reality

What people think happened is more important than what actually happened

'What policymakers believe to have taken place in any particular case is what matters — more than what actually occurred.' (1987) [1]

'Leaking classified documents to his mistress

Lying about providing secret documents

'[I] had never provided any classified information [to his mistress]' (10/26/2012) [2]

Lying about not having sensitive information

Falsely claiming he did not have 8 books detailing his intelligence activities

'I give my assurance that there is no classified material in my possession, custody, or control at this time.' (11/9/2012) [3]

On Iraq

Patraeus was original source for fake 'biotrailers' media release

'[There is a] reasonable degree of certainty that this is in fact a mobile biological agent production trailer.' (5/13/2003) [4]