While I've been watching this news lately of Obama's seeming indecision on what to do about Afghanistan, I keep recalling words that Tony Soprano gave to Ralphie on The Sopranos' 3rd season episode "Amour Fou.". In the situation, Ralphie had finally been bumped up to capo after a long time wanting it and acted as though he was ready. He was given the task of dealing with Jackie Jr. and the power to make his own decision on the matter - a power that he wanted - and then he waited, making things worse. Tony's words to him:
"You don't want to create confusion or insubordination but more important than the particular decision is that it happen in a timely fashion. But fuck it, why am I telling you? You know all this. You're a captain. Chain of command is very important in our thing."
(Tony did know what he was doing even if his goals were suspect.)
While I don't consider Obama or the generals to be a mafia organization (though some might call it close) there is certainly the paramilitary comparison to consider. It would be unconscionable to make a decision based on political reasons as there are good men and women dying as we speak. I will not presume that Obama is doing any such thing. But what then is the reasoning behind waiting so long to make a decision? He outlined his plans for Afghanistan earlier in the year (and has called it an important war since before he was a Senator, as opposed to his consistent call that Iraq was not.) While I can certainly understand the uncertainty surrounding the Afghan elections and what seems plenty of corruption within that government, that does not call for a waffling to the commanders requesting troops - troops needed to win. Whether backing the government or not, he should at least give idea to his generals that they and our cause are supported. He would, of course, need to meet with them a bit more I'd think. Afghanistan is not (or should not be) political on our part. Either get out or win, Mr. President. Continued indecision and half measures will do nothing but cause the death of too many for nothing at all. That is all.
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