Even though more troops are needed it sounds like a decent base is there to build on with new recruits and more training. Hopefully we won't be there forever but can get the Afghanis up to protecting themselves and get their infrastructure that they need started and then we can turn it over to them and come home. I'm encouraged too by the fact that we can actually state what some of our objectives are in Afghanistan; that makes it a lot easier to tell when we have completed our mission.

While it may be said that more troops are needed, who has taken a voice of the Afghan people as to if they want their country to be occupied by the US.

After we invaded, a new stronger hand of Islam has evolved and pushed women back further from equality. Acid attacks, beatings and rape.

The Afghan's do not want us in their country and now say, and trust their voice will become louder in this saying, we do not want the US here. Things have gotten worse for our people, for our lives, for our nation.

We will never win a battle in the Afghan mountains regardless of the troop level.

However, in the mean time, let us continue to kick out valued members of the military under DADT.

Finally some word of what's going on over there. My thoughts are with the Marines over there.

I agree with GF, Los Angeles. . . and would like to add. . . Thoughts and prayers with the Marines over there. Thanks to them for such strength. Pushing against the Taliban they are each to be highly commended and appreciated!