Americans may be surprised to learn that Afghans have long celebrated their own Independence Day. I honor their resolve – but wonder how and when they’ll truly live “free”?
19
2010
30
2010
RESTREPO: Real Love, Real Sacrifice, in Real Time
A “sneak peek” of the gripping new Afghan War documentary “Restrepo” leads to a key question – what compels Soldiers to go to battle, again and again? As a Soldier myself, I have some ideas…
31
2010
5000 Reasons to Remember Memorial Day
What does it really mean to “celebrate” Memorial Day? There’s way more to this holiday than hotdogs and hamburgers. In fact, I can think of at least 5000 reasons why we should never forget.
24
2010
Bono on Governance – Rock the World
What lesson is rockstar Bono learning as his organization “ONE” seeks solutions to the problem of extreme poverty in Africa? And could this same lesson apply to Afghanistan?
14
2010
Putting the “Build” in “Clear, Hold & Build”
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?
10
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?
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?
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.
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…


