I have remained silent on the topic of a "surge" of troops for the simple reason that I haven't the faintest clue whether it would accomplish anything or not. I do view with extreme suspicion such actions emanating from the planning rooms in D.C. as political gestures rather than military operations. We don't know what the generals really asked for or what they are prepared to do with additional troops; what we read in the media is only speculation from persons who, even with the highest qualifications, have only imperfect data.
I agree with VDH that it would be nice to have some sort of objective delineated by which to measure this activity. It would be even better to have that a bipartisan objective, but that would risk the Dems giving up a potential club with which to bash the administration for the piddling consideration of national security. They have not proven mature or broad-minded enough as yet to do so and the present treacly Pelosi coronation orgy leaves us no indication that they ever will.