Iraq: Surge Strategy

Lessons Of The Surge, (Washington Times)…Michael O’Hanlon, Nov 4, 2008.

Many Americans and Iraqis think of the recent surge in Iraq as simply the temporary addition of more U.S. troops to the war effort in 2007 and the first half of 2008. This is incorrect. It is also dangerous.

At the risk of falling victim to Pentagonese, I would propose we broaden our understanding of the surge by thinking of that word as an acronym.

“S” in surge should be understood as an emphasis on security.

“U” stands for unity of effort.

“R” must stand for reconciliation.

“G” stands for government capacity in Iraq

“E” stands for excellence in execution.