Democracy Now: Gen. Allen: U.S. Needs “Significant Combat Power” in Afghanistan

The top U.S. commander in Afghanistan is predicting the United States needs to prepare for heavy fighting during the upcoming year. General John Allen made the comment under questioning from Republican Senator John McCain of Arizona.
Sen. John McCain: “So basically you have no opinion here at the end of March 2012 as to what our military presence would be in 2013?”
Gen. John Allen: “My opinion at this particular juncture, but it is not my recommendation.”
Sen. John McCain: “What is your opinion at this particular juncture?”
Gen. John Allen: “My opinion is that we will need significant combat power in 2013, Sir.”
Sen. John McCain: “Like 68,000?”
Gen. John Allen: “Sixty-eight thousand is a good going-in number sir, but I owe the President some analysis on that.”

~ by wheresthemic on March 23, 2012.