"...additional US forces were needed". Not established. Al-Qaeda's stupidity and Petraeus' intelligence--especially in rejecting Teribus' idea that the Iraqi Sunnis deserved nothing--they were like Nazis at the end of World War II--were enough in themselves--especially combined with Petraeus' realization that he had to get the US forces out of their heavily fortified comfort zones--to actually fight side by side with Iraqis.

I realize I was wrong in saying that Maliki had not taken over in November 2006. He took over earlier in the year.   It doesn't bother me to admit my errors.

Some people however, prefer lashing themselves to the mast of a sinking ship, rather than admit error. Case in point: the delightful discussion we had about the Bush Iraq propaganda campaign. As I recall the same poster who sees the Sunnis as 5th columnists went down with his ship, still protesting there was no propaganda campaign.

So sorry, Teribus, that you don't like your words quoted.   By the way, quoting you is not "putting words into your mouth". Perhaps you want to review the meaning of that rather simple English expression.

But there is an option, if you don't really like your words repeated to you. All you have to do actually proofread your contributions, and decide if you really are saying what you want to. And possibly even think--before hitting send.

You don't need to thank me. I'm happy to offer advice, and I hope you take it in the spirit it was intended.

As always, looking forward to your next calm, well-reasoned posting.