Posted on 05/02/2006 5:38:04 PM PDT by blam
Gung-ho US troops urged to be more British
By Francis Harris in Washington
(Filed: 03/05/2006)
A senior American general has ordered his troops to reduce the lethal force used against Iraqis, citing fears that trigger-happy behaviour is aggravating the insurgency.
Lt Gen Peter Chiarelli, who commands operations for the 132,000 American soldiers in the country, told his men to display more sensitivity and reach for their guns less often.
"We risk the chance of creating an insurgent, of creating somebody who gets so disgusted. . . that they get off the fence and go to the wrong side," he told the New York Times. "That has probably happened in many instances."
Gen Chiarelli is known as an apostle of the British approach to counter-insurgency warfare that is increasingly favoured by many in America's military.
On a previous tour in Iraq, he worked to win Iraqi hearts in Baghdad through involvement in projects such as the provision of water.
American troops in the most violent areas of Iraq face regular attack by suicide bombers and gunmen. Iraqis have complained that the Americans are too willing to open fire first and ask questions later.
Now the troops have been told to use lethal force as a last resort. They are being issued with new equipment, including the wider use of the bright flashing lights of stroboscopes at night to warn Iraqi divers (drivers?) of an approaching checkpoint. Troops will also use warning signs in Arabic rather than warning shots.
In a further attempt to aid troops and reduce Iraqi casualties, intelligence officers have identified signs in the behaviour of suicide bombers and other assailants. A list will be issued to combat troops patrolling towns and cities.
The general said: "What we are asking people to do is think through and talk through with soldiers. . . and ask, 'When should you apply deadly force?' "
To underline his point, Gen Chiarelli sent his subordinate commanders articles from British newspapers criticising the sometimes tough tactics used by American soldiers at roadblocks and when driving in convoy.
"I don't think it hurts us at all to take a look at it. . . It falls in line with what I am trying to do in urging a higher level of understanding and cultural sensitivity."
But some American officers have criticised the new approach, saying that it could create more casualties among their men.
More than 2,400 American soldiers have been killed in Iraq as well as an estimated 39,000 Iraqis. One officer told the New York Times: "The restrained approach, as it is manifesting itself on the ground, is beginning to handcuff our soldiers."
British officers have told their men to use a softer approach with Iraqis. Troops are encouraged to use the traditional Arab greetings and spurn sunglasses, which prevent eye contact.
Gen Chiarelli? Nahhhhhhh, kill 'em all. God will know his own.
hmmmmm.... let's see Gung-Ho or not Gung-Ho????? Gung-Ho is why Patton beat Monty - DUH!!!
Bloody hell.
U.S. Marines - God judges the terrorists...we just arrange the meeting.
We need to unleash hell on the militias and clean up Ramadi and Baghdad and then we can police Iraq in a more UK type way.
I read the news today, oh boy
The English Army had just won the war...
I hate to say this but does this general know his own troops?
"...spurn sunglasses, which prevent eye contact"
Anyone working outside in a desert landscape must wear sunglasses to protect their vision. To suggest otherwise is absolute nonsense.
Fire this clown NOW.
If I was the parent of one of this clown's soldiers I would be very, very afraid.
Another Clintoon hold over?
Koom baa-ya around the IED's, gentlemen?
God forbid....
If this is the mentality of our Generals, pull out the troops now and let whatever happens - happen..
Give this General the Salvation Army to command.....
Not warriors.
Who the hell wants to die in order to avoid insulting or inflaming and armed opponent?
Semper Fi
Gung-Ho is Chinese for "work together" and was popularized by Mao's troops in the 1930's.
He's a poly sci kinda of guy. Another wesley weasel
"Gung-ho US troops urged to be more British"
Good-day Mate!
Its a tough one I know, but the man has a point.
Will it create more risk for the US troops: Yes
Will it help on the ground in 'winning the hearts and minds': Yes
Is it worth the trade? Thats up to everyone to decide for themselves.
Having waged a counter-insurgency war for decades in Northern Ireland and Oman, the UK military have developed good tactics when it comes to this kind of scenario. Obviously, in a full-blown war, it doesn't pay to ask questions first, but in a policing, counter-insurgency role it is the best course of action.
Yes its more risky for the troops, but you always have to trade off safety in order to gain the trust of the locals. Thats how you win the hearts and minds, and makes the people 'on the fence', fall on our side and not the enemies.
Also, as for the shades, it is indeed part of Arabic culture to see a mans eyes. To 'hide' ones eyes is a sign that the individual isn't trustworthy, and is unwilling to look a man face to face. Lessons learned through troopers who lost their lives in Northern Ireland and Oman are lessons worth learning.
Maybe they should learn to speak Arabic too.
I just wrote a letter to my Congressman conplaining about this guy. We'll see how long this guy stays in the Army.
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