In a speech recently delivered near Kirkuk, Iraq, Sec Def Gates said that the role of our military in Iraq remains critical in preserving gains made and helping to prevent violence prior to Iraq’s national elections. The Iraqi theater has largely disappeared from the headlines, Gates said, calling it the result of tremendous contributions our troops have made. I’m concerned that Gates did not articulate a clear need beyond the upcoming elections. I hope it’s not cut-n-run time then.
