Simmons: U.S. Will Be In Iraq For Years

Simmons: U.S. Will Be In Iraq For Years
Congressman Sees Need To Strengthen U.S. Forces

After a weekend trip to the Middle East, U.S. Rep. Rob Simmons, R-2nd District, predicted it will be several years before U.S. forces can be extricated from that country. He called on the Pentagon to take steps to prepare for a prolonged stay by bolstering the armed forces.

“If we're going to be there for several years, which I anticipate, do we have enough military strength to meet our commitments?” Simmons said, calling for an immediate 20 percent increase in Army forces, from 10 to 12 divisions.

“They've been in Bosnia for what, eight years?” Simmons said. “Absolutely, I think there will be a presence there for several years. It may not be large. I certainly hope it won't be, but I think there will be a presence there.”

Army Lt. Gen. Ricardo Sanchez, commander of the ground troops in Iraq, caused a stir this month when he suggested it could be years before the coalition forces leave Iraq, while the Pentagon's civilian leaders have been saying it will be by the end of next year.

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We told 'em so.

Especially the part about increasing the active duty Army by two divisions. Rummy ain't gonna like it. Cutting into defense contractor dollars for people dollars.

Certainly not for Iraq as a nation, and certainly not for the Iraqi
people who will continue to sift through the rubble of their homes
and lives for years to come. Maybe, at the end of the day though,
it will prevent pre-emptive strikes across the Middle East and Asia
and the P.L.A. N. will be D. O. N. E. That would be a blessing.