[MaxPlus305]

Fact is, it will have a very strong effect. In not so many words, Bush has given the troops approval to kick some insurgent ass over there, no questions asked. Time for cracking down.

Huh? What authority did Bush give to the troops with those words that the troops didn't already have? Are you suggesting that the troops were just standing there as Iraqis took potshots at them? I may have not served in the military (yet), but I get the feeling that troops under fire don't need to be told by someone halfway across the world to fight back. All Bush said, in so many words, is "We won't leave no matter what you guys do to us." The troops have ALWAYS had approval to respond with force.

[Pukin Dog]

No, I guess you never served.

You have to understand the psychology of the ROE. (rules of engagement) and the effect it has on moral and aggresiveness on the troops. In Iraq, the ROE is very strict as far as when and where troops can engage the enemy. Up to now, Mosques have been off limits. That ROE should be gone shortly. Bush has just given his Field Commanders a green light to go and get some.

It is like a wink and a nod. It is saying a lot, without using a lot of words for media consumption. Things are going to get a lot better over there real quick. You just watch.

[Frank_Discussion]

Okay, let me interject: He was REMINDING the troops of their authority, because, yes, in the shifting nature of things over there thay may not realize that full force is still understood.

The troops have been put into an informal peace-keeping mode, when the formal mode is still an active war. His statement is a psychological push, not a command. You may not take the president's words in the right spirit, but the troops will. As will our foes.