Of Surges and Being President

The success of the SURGE in Iraq proves only one thing for sure. The original Bush military strategy for that country could have been achieved years earlier and with far less loss of life, limb and treasure had he listened to those several military leaders who from the outset wanted more troops and equipment on the ground. 

But, this military success, at this much belated hour does not in any way prove that the decision to go into Iraq, in the first place, was correct; that America is better off today for having embarked on the original mission, that a significant military drawdown according to an approximate time table is wrong, and most of all that John McCain is the right candidate to lead our country for the next eight years. Many individuals recommended more troops early on. That recommendation does not qualify them as Presidential material. 

How much satisfaction can be taken from winning an unnecessary war?

Some of the same lessons can be applied to Afghanistan. No more nation building. No more occupation. Remember what happened to Russia and the Afghan quagmire. No more overly ambitious goals. Precise limited objectives and means. Targeted strikes only. 

The US does not need Iraq II,   THE SEQUEL 

It is reported that Osama Bin Laden has stated that it is his goal to sucker the US into squandering it's resources and therefore weakening us financially as a way of achieving his long term objectives. Afghanistan was the appropriate target five years ago but that time has passed. Our real enemy has found sanctuary in Pakistan. That is where people are being moved and trained. 

We need a new Pakistan strategy for that is the source.