Iraqi logistics are in a grim shape, US commander reports

The reformed Iraqi Ministry of Defense, a crucial element of any US plan to withdraw troops, is riddled with crippling problems that have raised concerns about its ability to keep Iraqi units paid, fed and equipped once it assumes full responsibility for the army, US and Iraqi commanders say.
The shortcomings of the ministry, which was overhauled under the US occupation authorities last year, are a growing concern to US commanders. Hoping to withdraw large numbers of the 135,000 US combat troops in the next year, these commanders say their plans hinge on a functioning ministry. If US troops leave without one in place, they say, the Iraqi army could quickly collapse.

"What are lacking are the systems that pay people, that supply people, that recruit people, that replace the wounded and AWOL and systems that promote people and provide spare parts," said a top US commander in Iraq, who asked not to be identified because his assessment went beyond the military's public descriptions.

http://www.taipeitimes.com/News/front/archives/2005/08/04/2003266317

That goes to the TOP,

if the Top is clueless, then.....

well, we already know the rest

to fund the military?


i'm speechless.

dp