Gates Wants Afghan Withdrawal to Leave Combat Troops

Source: The New York Times

FORWARD OPERATING BASE DWYER, Afghanistan — Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said Sunday that the administration’s pending decision on withdrawing troops from Afghanistan should preserve as much of the fighting force as possible during the initial drawdown.

“I would try and maximize my combat capability as long as this process goes on — I think that’s a no-brainer,” he said. “I’d opt to keep the shooters, and take the support out first.”

Mr. Gates also said he anticipated that the administration would conduct a review of force levels in Afghanistan that went far beyond simply announcing the number of troops returning home starting in July, as pledged by President Obama.

The administration was likely to create what Mr. Gates called “bookends,” an initial number to be withdrawn beginning in July and a date by which all of the 30,000 reinforcements sent last year would have departed Afghanistan.

Read more: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/06/06/world/asia/06gates.html

It maks me wonder if he is talking for the Admin or for himself. I suspect this is just his opinion and a way to cover his ass should the combat troops be withdrawn and all hell breaks loose there.

The silence is approval.

Unless there is a major change or an immediate crisis no need to blather about.

I expect no policy statement until the stated policy is broken. Isn't that the way it always happens, or is it just more blather?

but I thought your original complaint was about the administration not talking about Afghanistan policy. Funny how you so quickly switched topics.

As I said,I expect no policy statement until the stated policy is broken.

Mr. Praline: Look, matey, I know a dead parrot when I see one, and I'm looking at one right now.

Owner: No no he's not dead, he's, he's restin'! Remarkable bird, the Norwegian Blue, idn'it, ay? Beautiful plumage!

Mr. Praline: The plumage don't enter into it. It's stone dead.

Owner: Nononono, no, no! 'E's resting!

Why do you hate America?

....a little like promising to withdraw your dick but leaving it half in?

"I'd opt to keep the shooters, and take the support out first."

....if the withdrawal of support succeeds who will support the shooters?....will the shooters support the shooters?

....if the shooters support the shooters then why did we have the support in the first place?....unless of course, this is a non-withdrawal withdrawal....