American troops in Afghanistan are swelling as we enter the next phase in a “clear, hold and build” military strategy. How can stronger relationships – both with U.S. civilians – and with Afghans – ensure that the road ahead is successful?
Apr
14
2010
14
2010
Apr
10
2010
10
2010
Apr
6
2010
6
2010
To Train Military Leaders, Start with the Right Stuff
Afghanistan needs the fastest path to effective military leadership. So, doesn’t it make sense to recruit racehorses, rather than turtles?
Mar
29
2010
29
2010
Afghanistan – Beyond the Battlefield
President Obama rallied US troops in Afghanistan last weekend. But what was his underlying message to Afghans? How committed is the U.S. to Afghanistan’s long-term progress? And what do military leaders envision on the road ahead?
Mar
16
2010
16
2010
Afghanistan – Can We “Win”?
Before we claim “mission accomplished” in Afghanistan, shouldn’t we revisit U.S. objectives, and be sure our strategies support those goals? It’s worth looking for wisdom from military leaders who’ve been on the ground – up close and personal with Afghan tribes.
Feb
27
2010
27
2010
Afghanistan – The Trials of Tribal Leaders
In the Afghan War, winning battles against the Taliban is one way to measure progress. But winning hearts and minds of the Afghan people will require a much deeper commitment. It’s worth considering what keeps tribal leaders up at night…
Feb
10
2010
10
2010
9/11 – New Photos Remind Us What We’ve Lost
A picture is worth a 1000 words. New aerial photos of 9/11 leave us hollow and haunted. “The War on Terror” sometimes seems complex and conceptual. But this is raw and real. It deserves to stay fixed in our minds.
Jan
14
2010
14
2010
1984 Redux – Lessons for Terrorists
What’s ahead for Afghanistan – and other oppressed people of the world? History gives us some clues. So does a haunting message from classic literature…
Dec
23
2009
23
2009
Nobel Theology – The Afghan Imperative
Take a closer look at the theology and history supporting President Obama’s emerging “doctrine” of war and peace – and consider its implications for Afghanistan.
Dec
17
2009
17
2009
Nobel Theology – Pursuing Peace in a Time of War
President Obama’s Nobel Prize speech reflected a deep sensitivity to theological principals of “good” and “evil.” What can this tell us about his vision of peace – and war? (PART 1 of 2)
