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Monday A.M. Prep Fires, 18 Sept 06

By Lt Col P

The WaPo reporter who wrote a recent book on failures in Iraq—no, not Ricks, this time it’s Chandrasekaran—will be in an online chat today at 1200 EST. That’s noon eastern for all you military types. Check out excerpts from his book here. I haven’t read the book or fully read the excerpts, so I’ll withhold comment for now.

There is continued tumult in Afghanistan, but that’s really nothing new in historical terms. It’s a fractious place. However, the horizon certainly looks stormy. I think it’s time for NATO to “ruck-up” as one of my Brother Rats would say. A coalition is all fine and good if it’s made up of real partners and not partners in name only. The quality of the NATO troops is not in question; the will of their governments and people is. Afghanistan is shaping up to be a real test for them: what are you willing to fight for? The answer is not yet forthcoming.

Finally, on a very sad note, one of the greatest Americans alive today is not in good health. Hunters and shooters and a segment of the military will know him well, and the rest of us—especially the military and police—should take the time to get to know something about him. I would suggest starting with his commentaries or his books. The vast improvement in the practical marksmanship training and capabilities of the military in recent years can be traced directly or indirectly to him. I am privileged to have met him not once but twice.

September 18, 2006 05:46 AM The Long War