<I think the American public will support whatever it takes to get the job done.

"Whatever it takes" implies limitless war, and the public will definitely not go for that. Stupid as it may sound, all is not fair in war, not the least of which is that silly war crimes tribunal that just needs to know everything about you.

Flaming the bad guys for me is no problem, but the flame should be your minimum force -- meaning all lesser avenues have failed to resolve the problem in that particular hole in the ground. The enemy should have the opportunity to surrender. If they choose not to -- we're then left with soldier's discretion, and we get to toast 'em.

Just be damned sure you're right before you do,
Dan