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Old 11-18-2005, 03:40 PM   #4 (permalink)
Elphaba
Deja Moo
 
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Location: Olympic Peninsula, WA
This is a quick copy/paste from the Murtha topic. His thinking is not illogical in my mind, IF someone would actually ask him to spell out his plan. I can only guess at what a seasoned Marine, known to be the biggest Dem Hawk is thinking. But this is my guess.

Quote:
I would like to take a best guess at what his plan means and I certainly wouldn't expect him to spell it out in a speech.

To immediately redeploy US troops consistent with the safety of US forces.

"Consistent with the safety of US forces" appears to be his key point. I don't think he is advocating "cut and run" which conceivably would embolden those that are attacking our troups.

To create a quick reaction force in the region.

That would be our special forces personnel from all branches of the military, in my opinion. Let's bring our national guard members home to serve in our national defense. Kuwait is the obvious "region" to stage this force.

To create an over-the-horizon presence of Marines.

"Over-the-horizon" is close by, but out of sight. Many others have stated that our "occupation" is the source of much of the insurgency. I mean no disrespect to any other branch of the military, but the Marines never allowed themselves to be undermined by social experiments. They are the best of the best.

To diplomatically pursue security and stability in Iraq.

This is not a new idea, as there has been much criticism that no diplomatic component existed or was planned for after the fall of Bagdad. Murtha was eloquent in stating that our military forces have met all of their obligations in Iraq. He also stated that their continued presence makes them targets of the insurgency, bringing more death.

I don't think anyone disagrees that Iraq must provide for their own security. I strongly question why they are no further along than they are, and why our young men and women must remain targets of the insurgency. It strikes me as a "damned if you do, and damned if you don't" type of dilemma. Murtha's been there before, and I respect his opinion.

The political posturing that is underway is beyond inexcusable. The deep divisions that already exist will be exacerbated and the extremes on either side of the political divide further entrenched. This is not leadership.
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Last edited by Elphaba; 11-18-2005 at 03:42 PM..
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