I think it is natural that testimony would be more optimistic given the closeness to the problem and the huge personal investment that has been made.  Contrary to statements that we have been in 9 years of combat there, I contend that we are in Afghan II, the first engagement being ’01 –’03 (when I was running Khowst) and then again starting in ’09.  In the interim we shifted our attention away from Afghanistan as we pursued objectives in Iraq and out sourced the work to ISAF, who were more interested in counter narcotic operations and not security and infrastructure development.  As such, the insurgency regained its legs and joined by irritated fence sitting warlords that were now getting their income mucked with.  Since USG has been back there has … Read entire article »