lasted for 40 hours of close combat, killing at least 72 insurgents
Yeah, that'll show us. Looks like he's using up his highly trained resources pretty fast and not much to show for it.
Thats what I was thinking too. Of course initially an lasting attack has more chances of killing Americans,but as soon as air power and reserves are called in the insurgents have to come up losers. Turn the A-10's loose on them and anyone who hasnt gotten out of the way is dogmeat. IMO no patrol should be sent out without back up on call. Big back up.