[PA Engineer]

But the larger point about not telling the world bin Laden was dead, or even there, probably has some merit. Operationally, we would be much better off if we didn't tell them their leader was dead. That would have led to even more confusion for them.

Agreed and that is my point. In regards to the helicopter I have given that some thought. The wise approach would have been to have a somewhat high level Defense official announce that we are aware of the loss. "This is a loss that is going to happen during ongoing military operations." After that is denial and not another word. This operation could have been one of the easiest to compartmentalize even if it was a snatch instead of a tap.

Imagine all of the potential disinformation that could have been sown on the Jihadi websites. Instead they had to campaign on it. I am also very embarrassed.

[freeandfreezing]

In regards to the helicopter...

All they had to say was that it was involved in a secret meeting with intelligence contacts in Pakistan. Deny everything else.

[woofie]

Very good points

I had long suspected Usama was dead and we were throwing out dis info ...Bush came out and said there would be disinfo....
Not saying is the ultimate revenge