There comes a time in combat when split second choices are made. Tactical rules of engagement training condition one to those choices, and may make sense to the situation or to the overall mission, or not. But, inescapable in the choice is whether to die for a rule that doesn’t apply to the immediate threat. That reality is ignored only if one feels that another’s life is more important than one’s own, that the primary mission of a soldier or Marine is to die for their country rather than make others die for theirs. Front line life and death are that clear and brutal.
In today’s asymmetrical wars, the home front faces the same choices, life or death as the threats can extend here, but do have more time to reflect. But, the moment of choice is still near instant. Rumination is the same, in effect, as not acting, and letting the foe act and exploit weakness and hesitation.
I’ve heard those conservatives or to-now Iraq war supporters express their misgivings about the “surge.” Those misgivings, that lack of confidence, have strong grounds in the too often vacillating and confused course of our engagement.
Still, not only is there no alternative that doesn’t promise even worse outcomes, but the misgivings ignore the unavoidable problems of any war.
No, the “surge” is not a magic bullet. Indeed, far more is needed, all up and down the line from military to diplomatic force. But, it is having some important results, even now when just starting. We should be demanding the far more that is needed...
Rules of Engagement for Conscience and Sense
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