>> You might have it right, but why did Gates use the terminology “asked for his resignation” and foster the widespread use of the characterization that he was “fired.” <<
Maybe it was all an act, carried out so as to calm the Afghans — who seem highly agitated by the recent spate of civilian deaths due to collateral damage. Behind the scenes, Gates and General Mac may still be on good terms.
On the other hand, McK may have been a clone of Wesley Clark — who has been overly reluctant to follow orders from above.
(Let’s not forget that it was PØTUS Clinton who was forced to sack Wes, after complaints from SecDef Cohen. Gates and/or Petraeus may have had the same sorts of problems with McK.)
Right or wrong decision, I don’t know
But I do know if this was Bush the press would be all over him like he won’t listen to his General so he fires opposing voices.