Read the upcoming book, "Combat Self-Defense" by David D. "Bo" Bolgiano. Speaks directly to your statements about how we've made our troops hesitate before acting. I'm a JAG and it's partially an indictment of a bunch of my fellow JAGs - not all, by any means - who are more concerned with protecting the commander than the boots on the ground. I think it may be available on Amazon by now, or check out LWWBooks@aol.com or write him at airbornerobocop@aol.com. No, I don't get a cut.
Colonel, USAFR
This goes all the way to the top. If the commanders have to be concerned with protecting themselves, the president is obviously not standing behind them.