The Surge Narrative - Question

[MikeF]

While I hate to agree with a NY Times writer about anything, Filkins is correct. It is important to note that he is talking big picture - the trend of the entire country. Where Gentile's narrative differs is to point out that HIS BATTALION was not doing any such congregation. Filkins is correct and Gentile is correct.

The real confusion in this issue stems from the assumption that the narratives of Filkins and Gentile are mutually exclusive.

Currently, you'll find narratives. I've written a few for SWJ trying to explain what I saw in 2003, 2005, and 2006-2007. If you truly want to understand the Surge or Iraq from 2003-2007, then you'll have to wait a bit.

For a holistic view, you'll need narratives from everyone....

1. Coalition Force
2. Iraqi Government
3. "Enemy"- AAS, AQI, JAM, etc...
4. Populace- Everyday Mustafa "the plumber" Iraqi
5. Non-Governmental leadership (Sistani, tribes, etc...)
6. On the Ground Reporters- Mark Kukis.
7. NGO's.
8. Etc...Etc...

IF you can get all these narratives, and that's a BIG if, then in the middle you may find the true narrative on the surge.

I would caution you not to rely on anyone's metrics. If someone writes a book, then the first question you should pose is, "do the men/women under his command agree with him?"

Mike