I dont mean in the matter of the Soviets where we kill everything that moves.

I am referring more to the accounts of engagement requests taking hours, even days to come down from the chain of command while hunting Taliban.

Quote :

"Troops on the ground and some military commanders have said the strict rules -- aimed at preventing civilian casualties -- have effectively forced the troops to fight with one hand tied behind their backs. The military source who has talked with Petraeus said the general will make those changes. Other sources were not so sure, but said they wouldn't be surprised to see that happen once Petraeus takes command. The rules, put in place by outgoing Gen. Stanley McChrystal, are classified but generally aim to limit civilian casualties by prohibiting troops from firing unless they're shot at -- or from launching bomb or artillery attacks when civilians are near the target. "

http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2010/06/25/petraeus-modify-afghanistan-rules-engagement-source-says/

I have heard many first hand accounts from friends waiting as much as 48 hours for permission to attack positions, only to find that the enemy has moved on when permission was finally granted. They have also told me that in many cases like this, the decision is made by a group of commanders....obviously this can cause inefficiency.



[Edited on June 26, 2010 at 5:40 PM. Reason : .]

6/26/2010 5:40:01 PM

Brilliant end to an impressive career:
Army spokesman says McChrystal to retire
http://www.cnn.com/2010/US/06/28/mcchrystal.retirement/index.html?hpt=T2

6/28/2010 10:30:08 PM

Dethroned king of the baby-killers.

6/29/2010 6:33:49 PM

6/29/2010 11:53:29 PM