I couldn't agree more with Uncle Ginsters when he says
3. SS - Yes, the Captain is a major part of the decision-making loop, but he's only one link in the chain. Levels of risk have to be taken at the appropriate levels of command. It is impossible to define those levels, but it is incumbant on us all to understand and flag upwards exactly what risks are being taken on a trip-by-trip basis.
The pushing down of the decision to the ac comd (I think the term captain ceased to be in the military regulations around 2002) is an insidious form of smoke and mirrors. If the chain of command are going to ask the crew to go beyond the limits, then the must own at least part of the risk. It's not what decision is taken that's important, it's that the right people are involved and own it.