[samtheman]

In an effort to toughen the Iraqi forces, Abizaid said the U.S. military will reach out to former senior members of Saddam's disbanded army — a reversal in strategy. The military in the past has tried to avoid relying on top officials from the ousted regime.

Isn't it true that the Allies used German soldiers to help maintain order after WWII?

[Dave Elias]

That's true, the Wiermacht Army was used as a quasi police. From this was propogated the myth that they were just honorable soldiers. However probably the most significant Nazis to retain their position post war were the Judges. These were some of the most evil bastards on earth, however they were thought to be an essential cog in the wheel of general law and order. For the sake of pragmatism they were left in place.

This is probably where we have erred most in Iraq. We have been too idealistic in de-Baathing the place and have lost some essential institutions. Democracy depends on security.