You omitted "think" in that post, in more ways than one!
What you are not understanding is that we are killing them and are in their face.
This is the only way they will fear and respect the coalition forces and is the only way that is effective to neutralize the threat.
It minimizes innocent casualties and maximizes the elimination of the insurgents.
It will cost, but bombing from 30,000 feet garners no respect and effect. It is a losing proposition. It generates hate and loathing. It does not change the situation on the ground and only hides it.
The hand over date will remain. it is very important that it does, both politically and in the forward process of democratic conversion.
This date was not plucked out of the air by us. It was requested by them and we are going to make good on it as best we can. I believe we will.
God bless our Marines and protect them. Their work today is very important.