Soldiers told not to shoot Taliban bomb layers

Daily Telegraph (UK) ^ | 7/8/2011 | Andy Bloxham

[1066AD]

They are instead being ordered to just observe insurgents and record their position to reduce the risk of civilian casualties.

The controversial policy emerged at an inquest into the death of Sgt Peter Rayner, 34, a soldier from the 2nd Batallion The Duke of Lancaster's Regiment who was killed in October last year by an improvised explosive device as he led a patrol in Helmand Province, Afghanistan.

Wendy Rayner, 40, disclosed that in the days leading up to his death her husband been told that it was not his job to attack insurgents laying bombs.

[the scotsman]

Yawn.

Usual ‘we saved your ass’ crap. Try learning real hsitory.

[the scotsman]

Thank you.

Too many posts on FR where Britain is concerned can turn into bashing the ‘dhimmi’ Limeys where facts are ignored.

[Tainan]

The facts are that this is a co-operative effort between several countries. For anyone to assert the belief that the Brits are not pulling their weight in this effort is absurd.
The links from the referenced article also go to a story about the two Brit snipers, "Osmond & Potter" (chuckle) and their scores in taking out bad guys. They are the team who scored the "Quigley", 2 kills with 1 shot.
The ridiculous ROEs were put in place by micro-managing politicians. Can't blame the troops on the line for that fiasco. No way to run a war...as history has shown.

As I said, these were implemented by Gen. McCrystal(sp?)...his orders came down from on high and he clicked his heels and signed-off on them. He has since been suitable rewarded for his obedience to the system....perfumed prince is the phrase that comes to mind.