They worry about the growing power of the Sunni sheikhs within the police force, that could lead to more friction with the Shiite-dominated government in Baghdad.

NPR: Sunni Sheiks Join Iraqi Police to Fight Al Qaida

He had complained frequently that the Air Force was not getting ground forces the reconnaissance support they needed in overseas conflicts, and there was continuous friction over modernization priorities (Gates eventually terminated a fighter program championed by the purged Air Force leaders).

FORBES: Air Force Positions For Resurgence In Pacific Era