RE: http://www.military.com/NewsContent/0,13319,153000,00.html

So we are going to reduce the troop levels in one of the most dangerous areas. Sounds as if the troop buildup in that province needs more troops in order to reduce the level of activity. Perhaps, taking the troops, put them online and sweep the insurgents out of the province would be a better plan. Get the troops out of Saddams Palacies, secure bases and get them out in the field where they can do their jobs of eliminating the bad guys.

RE: http://www.military.com/NewsContent/0,13319,153000,00.html

I guess the suggestion made by the Marine Corps Commadant of shifting the Marines from Iraq to Afghanastan hit the floor like a cowpie?
Well, that would have easily reduced the numbers in Iraq by around 21,000 troops... and put them where they are most needed. Or even just shifting Half the Marines would be of great effect. I know, I know..it's not in the sceem of the Big Picture and what the Overall Ground commander wants. But, The Commadant probably wouldn't have made the suggestion if he didn't receive clear and concise information from his ground commanders in An Abar provence.
And you know Marines...they want to be where the fight is...not just Holding and Patroling and handing out water and toys all the time (thou their Marine reserve Toys for Tots program for Christmas is Fantastic... )
Well, we'll see in a couple of months what the Sec Defense decides would be the best move...then dictate down to the Commanders on the ground.
God Bless our troops, All are doing a Fantastic job...

This is rearranging the deck chairs on the Titanic.

No such thing as draw down...20 to 19...only to place more of a strain on the unit that will now have to "expand". No such thing as Support role when there is still fighting going on. What happens is you stretch the unit while maintaining the same operational tempo in the AO. In which only make the mission even harder to complete, longer roads to travel and more opportunities for IED attacks, due to the fact that Haji has more to time to set up.

quote:

Originally posted by MGYSGTPenn:
RE: http://www.military.com/NewsContent/0,13319,153000,00.html

So we are going to reduce the troop levels in one of the most dangerous areas. Sounds as if the troop buildup in that province needs more troops in order to reduce the level of activity. Perhaps, taking the troops, put them online and sweep the insurgents out of the province would be a better plan. Get the troops out of Saddams Palacies, secure bases and get them out in the field where they can do their jobs of eliminating the bad guys.

Exactly!