For veteran U.S. troops, a new challenge in Iraq (mission without end)

[UpInArms]

http://www.iht.com/articles/2006/01/08/news/troops.php?rss

KIRKUK, Iraq Captain John McLaughlin's company of U.S. combat veterans has returned to Iraq. His paratroopers have brought far fewer illusions this time around, exchanging unalloyed enthusiasm for the war in Iraq in the spring of 2003 for a mix of professionalism, resignation and cynicism.

<snip>

FOB Warrior, as it is called, has facilities like hot showers, a swimming pool and a beauty parlor that gives massages. There is a Burger King restaurant and a 24-hour coffee shop, where soldiers line up for lattes and brownies in the middle of the night.

The permanence of facilities at the Kirkuk base also hints of a mission without end.

<snip>

During a four-day visit to the base, soldiers and their commanders said they see the Iraq mission as less ambitious, less achievable and more stressful than they did almost three years ago.

...more...

[BlueManDude]

1. their only mission is to stay alive n/t

[leftchick]

2. FOB Warrior must be one of the enduring bases

yes indeed the US plans to be in Iraq forever.