The Decision

Well struck. Very nice piece.

However, I beg to differ (slightly) on blaming W for the Iraq war, as Saddam was continuing combat ops on a daily basis by firing on our jets patrolling the no-fly zone. He was also in violation of numerous (19, I believe) UN Resolutions, and was guilty of the exploitation of the Oil-For-Food program. He was also making payments to the families of PLO suicide bombers. Wrap around all that the authorization of Congress (including votes by Biden and Clinton) to go to war because Saddam wouldn't account for his WMD programs, and it is hardly accurate to "blame" Bush. However, that ultimately ties right in with your narrative.

But, at this point, that is all water under the bridge. Iraq is a moot point, as the SOFA is nearly a done deal, and the withdrawal of our troops will be done at a reasonable (tactical) pace. History will judge W a bit more favorably, as we now have Iran surrounded, with 2 fledgling democracies in the heart of the middle east. Caliphate my rear.

Keep the faith!!