Journal: New Strategy for Afghanistan? Or Just a New Naked Emperor and a 2012 Bow Wave?

The  report of Damian McElroy in the Telegraph [UK] describes General Petraeus new strategy for Afghanistan.  It will be have a broad emphasis on counterinsurgency, like McChrystal’s strategy, but McElroy highlighted the following (presumed) differences or distinguishing features: Recognition that Taliban defections are crucial to achieving goal of ending war in 4 yrs (2014). … Observation: …

Review: Revolutions and Revolutionary Movements

Excellent Primer Lacking in Some Substantive Respects July 7, 2010 James DeFronzo There is no question but that this book would be an excellent undergraduate primer, but it is lacking in a number of substantive respects. The shortfalls first: 1. Needs to add understanding and summary of “secret war” and covert action dimensions underlying each …

Journal: William Polk on Afghanistan Non-Strategy Plus Consolidated Journal, Review, and Reference Links for Afghanistan

William R. Polk recently sent out the attached letter to his distribution list.  It is a very comprehensive and I believe important review of Afghanistan.  I urge you to take the time to read it.  Appended to the end are a series of notes he used in the construction of his letter.   Polk know …

Review (DVD): Unthinkable

Starring: Samuel L. Jackson, Michael Sheen Director: Gregor Jordan And Carrie-Anne Moss (Amazon stinks at listing all authors and actors) 5.0 out of 5 stars Astonishing–Riveting–Thought Provoking–Beyond Five Stars May 28, 2010 EDIT of 27 August 2010: The Intelligence Science Board, the top advisory board to the Director of National Intelligence, has just come out …

Review: Endless War–Middle-Eastern Islam vs. Western Civilization

27 March 2010: Full spread sheet and optimal links added below Amazon review.GOT TO RUN, Links later today. Beyond Five Stars…Gifted Mix of Intelligence, Integrity, Insight Deeply Rooted in History and Firmly Focused on Today’s Reality March 21, 2010 Ralph Peters I do not always agree with Ralph Peters, but along with Steve Metz and …