Contributor(s): General Sir Mike Jackson | A look at where today's strategic circumstances are and the position of the UK, and a look to the future. General Sir Mike Jackson's illustrious career in the British Army has spanned almost forty five years and all that time he has shown loyalty, courage and commitment to the British army whilst also being an undeniable media attraction. General Sir Mike Jackson is the best known British General of modern times. He retired in the autumn of 2006 after almost forty five years of service in the British army, finishing as its head as Chief of the General Staff. his most recent book is Soldier: The Autobiography (2007).