Quote Originally Posted by Ken White View Post
Now, question for you -- what's wrong with that solution to your case study?
Nothing. That's pretty much what I'd do. Return with more troops, some artillery and a couple of tanks. (You guys are pretty good. I'm sure if the proper resources are sent, the troops will achieve their mission.) Build a fence around the city. But I think you must come back. You need to send the message that cooperation with the Taliban will not be tolerated. (or if you can't be trusted, you will be controlled, which is different from punished: fences not crucifixions.)

But I think Wanat has now become strategic and you still need to be population centric. Trying to intercept the bad guys as they move back and forth from their sanctuary is the right short term tactical decisions, but a long term strategic mistake.