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May 14, 2004
It's always useful to get
It's always useful to get a "boots-on-the-ground" perspective. The situation in Najaf has been touch and go over the past few weeks. The battle rages as I write this.
Rather than just storm the city and risk massive civilian casualties, we've pursued a dual policy of graduated military force along with negotiations with Al-Sadr. Recently some of his (remaining) soldiers have taken to marching around the city saying for the cameras that they "defeated" us.
This letter, by Army Spc. Joe Roche has been widely quoted on the Internet and has become a must-read. Money quote:
"I ask that the American people be brave. Don't fall for the spin by the weak and timid amongst you that are portraying this battle as a disaster. Such people are always looking for our failure to justify and rescue their constant pessimism. They are raising false flags of defeat in the press and media. It just isn't true."
Read the whole thing.
Posted by Tom at May 14, 2004 7:30 PM
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