David Petraeus begins to rehabilitate his image

We’re about to find out.

On Tuesday night, former CIA Director David Petraeus apologized publicly for the extra-marital affair that led to his resignation from the nation’s spy agency in November. Patraeus, a retired four-star general and hero of the Iraq war, delivered his contrite remarks to about 600 people at the University of Southern California’s annual ROTC dinner. He began the speech:

“Needless to say, I join you keenly aware that I am regarded in a different light now than I was a year ago. I am also keenly aware that the reason for my recent journey was my own doing. So please allow me to begin my remarks this evening by reiterating how deeply I regret—and apologize for—the circumstances that led to my resignation from the CIA and caused such pain for my family, friends and supporters.”

It was the first time Petraeus had publicly apologized for the affair. He received a standing ovation.

Although Petraeus focused the bulk of his speech on the difficulties military veterans face when they transition to civilian life, he also reportedly spoke of his “personal journey.” He closed the speech: