Because the West wanted to find out what Russias intentions were. Very few people thought Russia would risk everything for Georgia. After all, tiny country, a couple of pipelines. Now we know. Russia will go for broke over Georgia. Russia now also knows the US/Eastern Europe will go for broke for Georgia. The opening clash is coming in Tblishi. IMHO.
But here's the link: The Georgian President Mikhail Saakashvili is claiming that the US is planning to take over the Georgian airports and ports. The State Department, however, denies it.