Throughout history military commanders have acted too soon, or procrastinated too long. Occasionally we are blessed by a leader that always seems to seize the right moment. I have no idea where this set of decisions falls but I suspect that mistakes were made.

One of the downsides of using proxy fighters is that we are essentially a well trained but green fighting force. We will take some casualties while we gain combat experience and identify the good leaders. Meanwhile, we should must understand that 100 x the casualties we have taken are paltry compared to what is at stake.

It is a shame that old guys like myself can't put our lives in a pool to be exchanged for the young men that are dying. I would be first in line to volunteer.