Final answer:
The admiral likely wants Connor to act as his eyes and ears to ensure a trustworthy flow of intelligence and to stay informed of internal and external developments for strategic decision-making.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question 'Why does the admiral want Connor to be the admiral's eyes and ears?' suggests a need for intelligence and observation within the military setting, where trust is crucial and information is power. Historically, admirals and commanders have relied on trusted aides and spies to provide vital information for strategic decision-making. By having someone like Connor acting as the 'eyes and ears,' the admiral ensures a flow of reliable intelligence, keeps abreast of internal and external developments, and may be able to preempt and manage potential threats or challenges. The excerpts provided suggest themes of military command, strategy, leadership, and the importance of vigilance and loyalty within the ranks. These themes are consistent with the practices of militaries throughout history, emphasizing the never-ending need for trustworthy intelligence gathering, whether in times of open conflict or during tense peacetime.