I wasn't referring to loss of face, though. I am sure retreat can be done graciously. If were to choose that path, the fall-out in the Middle East would be significantly worse, I am certain, than if we complete the task laid out to replace the Hussein regime with something a little more humane. This is my opinion. We have double-crossed these long-suffering people once before. Why do it again? Even if we can save face doing so?

The ground truth is that no matter how stupid we (or they) were driving us into this war, we are in the middle of it. And given that fact, we should quite simply win it. I hate being there and I want out. But the cost of backing out instead of going on through is too high, IMHO.

In addition -- although I recognize this is not a popular thought here -- I am persuaded that the long term benefits to individuals in Iraq is worth a scuffle.
I am sure stating this will bring down scorn on my poor head but I gotta call 'em like I see 'em.



A