As the mythology has matured we’ve been led to believe that President Obama, in a single-handed display of fortitude, disposed of Osama bin Laden. Well, “okay,” concede his acolytes, he had a boost from a few U.S. Navy Seals.  But, they argue, no matter what else President Obama has done or not done, he made the “gutsy call” to suddenly reduce Osama bin Laden to room temperature, and that alone begs for his re-election.

One could debate how “gutsy” that call was; to some it appears rather basic.

But, never mind. According to then CIA Director Leon Panetta , Admiral McRaven, without so much as an assist from the president took sole responsibility for the success or failure of the “gutsy call.” In Mr. Panetta’s own words:

Received phone call from Tom Donilon who stated that the President made a decision with regard to AC1 [Abbottabad Compound 1]. The decision is to proceed with the assault.

The timing, operational decision making and control are in Admiral McRaven’s hands. The approval is provided on the risk profile presented to the President. Any additional risks are to be brought back to the President for his consideration. The direction is to go in and get bin Laden and if he is not there, to get out. Those instructions were conveyed to Admiral McRaven at approximately 10:45 am.

In other words, the President not only didn’t take charge, he was purposefully insulated from accountability.  He “led from behind,” again.

Remind us again why he deserves our votes?