We live in a world that is sometimes tough to explain. On the one hand, the U.S. military under Barack Obama discharges gay Arab linguists for being gay, despite the fact that their language skills are much needed.

But even though gay Arab linguists are forbidden, in a story headlined "U.S. defense chief lauds soldier in pink boxers," I learned about the apparent position of our military leaders under Barack Obama that wearing pink boxer shorts and flip-flops into battle is a good thing:

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates on Thursday praised an Army soldier in eastern Afghanistan who drew media attention this month after rushing to defend his post from attack while wearing pink boxer shorts and flip-flops.

In fact, Gates said he wants to meet the soldier and shake his hand the next time he visits Afghanistan.

"Any soldier who goes into battle against the Taliban in pink boxers and flip-flops has a special kind of courage," Gates said in remarks prepared for a speech in New York.

"I can only wonder about the impact on the Taliban. Just imagine seeing that: a guy in pink boxers and flip-flops has you in his cross-hairs. What an incredible innovation in psychological warfare," he said.

Can someone please explain?

Here's the picture:

What would General Patton say?

Hmmm....

For that matter, what would Ann Althouse say?