<p>zoom…very interesting and a perspective that I had not thought about. One would hope (and I can’t help but be hopeful) that in the short term the price may be higher, but in the long-term, having a connection with the local population will help them take ownership of the situation. I’ve heard that this strategy is working in some parts of Iraq, i.e. Fallujah, although it took some time to achieve. </p>
<p>No matter which “side” you are on in the “Supe’s new strategy” debate I’m confident that the Mids are learning how to adapt in a “new” environment and still work to achieve their goals, whatever those goals may be. And that may be the biggest lesson of all. The troops on the ground have done a tremendous job of adapting to a war that is fluid with an ever changing enemy. I’ve had the pleasure of speaking with a Class of '96 Marine who confirmed to me that the boots on the ground are doing an impressive job of changing tactics, altering equipment and thinking outside the box in order to achieve their mission. I’d like to think that the PTB are seeing this and are using this same strategy to address the bigger picture. As always, time will tell.</p>