FOB Keating attack repulsed
Moderator's Note
This was called 'Considerable casualties in Afghanistan' and was changed 2/12/2013 to FOB Keating attack repulsed. (Ends)
From Michael Yon's twitter feed, beginning at about 12:43AM, EST, 10/04/09...
Quote:
Americans hit hard in Afghanistan. Casualties "considerable." I first got this more than 12 hours ago but is still hush.
The word to me is that a base was hit hard. Little other news other than casualties "considerable."
Nothing on the wires about a large attack.
Heavy US losses in Afghan battle
Quote:
Eight American soldiers and two Afghan troops have been killed in the deadliest attack on coalition troops for more than a year, officials say.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/8289200.stm
I think this is yet another incident that goes to show that a change of tactics and strategy is needed in this part of Afghanistan.
My thoughts are also with the familes of the fallen.
GEN McChrystal to face some questions
According to press reports, Gen McChrystal ordered such outposts in Nuristan province closed, in order to focus troops in populated areas. It seems likely that the Taliban mounted this attack to create the impression that they are driving the U.S. Army out. We will see if they succeed with this information operation.
As that IO battle percolates, McChrystal, whose stock price is probably dropping in the West Wing, will no doubt be asked a few questions:
1) Why the delay closing the eastern outposts? Any plans to accelerate the closures now? And how will that look?
2) Any connection between your new rules of engagement and the Taliban's ability to organize this attack?
3) The President's objective is to “to disrupt, dismantle and destroy al Qaeda.” Yet you plan on abandoning the positions in Afghanistan that are closest to the al Qaeda senior leadership's suspected positions in Pakistan and al Qaeda's principle infiltration routes into Afghanistan. How will this strategy achieve the President's objective?
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Let us pause for a moment to remember the fallen, their families, and their friends.
-Robert Haddick