John Glenn quote (warning, some content may incite anger)

[JWsleep]

The lack of planning was not in the attack stage. We easily conquered to country and deposed Saddam. The problem was what to do next. The so-called "Powell Doctrine" called for many boots on the ground and a coalition to help bear the costs. Rummy was a proponent of a new, mobile army that can strike quick, effect change, and get out. When the chairman of the joint chiefs suggested to congress in the buildup to war that as many as 200,000 troops might be needed, he was shit-canned by Rummy. Powell and the state department formed a study group on the post war process. They called in experts, Iraqi expats, etc., to figure out what the risks were and what to do. A crucial risk identified was the need for post-conflict security to handle the vacuum of power left by Saddam's fall. Rummy got wind of the group, and disbanded it. Their plan was not even considered by the DOD. That's what I mean about lack of planning, not that the military in the initial invasion didn't have a plan. General Franks did have a plan, and a good one, for smashing the Iraqi army and taking control of the country. But note that he retired WITHIN WEEKS OF THE FALL OF BAGDAD! Why? Because he quickly realized he did not have control of the situation: he'd been supplanted by control from the civilians from DOD, first Garner and then, woefully, Bremmer.

Rummy, with the support of Cheney, were behind these moves. That's the issue here, I think, and you don't have to read the NYTimes to believe it. Check out many of the books by people formerly in the administration--they are by no means liberals. And, if you can, get a hold of that Frontline. If you see things wrong with it, I'd like to know. it would make me feel a bit better if these guys weren't so incompetent. But I think they were, given what I've seen.

To reiterate: I think the military has done a fine job in trying circumstances. The main reason we've got control now is that a proper plan of action, developed on the ground by people like Col. McMaster ("Tal Afar") and Patreus. Rummy always opposed this approach, which echoes of the Powell doctrine.