Mike Yon; Achievements of the Human Heart

[tw]

Originally Posted by xoxoxoBruce

This is first class progress, and I suggest you read all the links, for a true picture of whats happening "on the ground".

The problem: this was also the exact same 'first class progress' that was reported in Nam. One fundamental difference exists. Americans are conducting tactics based in military principles rather than denying those principles apply. A defeat in Nam can be traced to actions such as 'search and destroy'. Tactics directly traceable to a general who insisted basic military doctrine does not apply in Nam. This general is not justifying his actions by denying basic military doctrine. That - and not 'feel good' stories - is a relevant fact.

This example does not even imply a strategic objective is being accomplished. We don't know. We have no solid facts - plus or minus. A problem made worse because the credibility of the administration is so bad that we don't know if good news really exists.

We have these 'feel good' stories. Do Iraqis now appreciate Americans? The exact same stories existed three years ago when reality was a widespread contempt of Americans. We don't need 'feel good' stories. We need facts. Currently the only available facts come from a CIA analysis. Those conclusions still remain inconclusive.

Tactical accomplishments - these 'feel good' stories - were routine from Nam. However positive news is no 5 o'clock follies. Military briefings are more based in reality than in politics. That is a far more promising symptom that a strategic objective may yet be achieved.