It seems like so long ago, the end of Desert Storm. Leaving a bitter taste in the mouth of many, and likewise the flavor of pumpkin pie in others, the United States ended Operation: Desert Storm years ago. It dropped off the face of the news, and it was over.

Then George W. decided we needed to go back. He dragged our troops in, searched the place, attacked the place, and then it was over again. Remember that day on the big flat boat where he came out all dressed up and announced Mission Accomplished? Well here we are, over a year later. Two days ahead of schedule the United states has dropped sovereignty in the lap of Iraq. (article) But the question in many peoples' mind is whether or not they're ready for it. With the world of problems they still experience, and the world of problems we still experience while trying to keep the peace, one has got to wonder if we're pulling out early because it's gotten to be too much for us.

The other interesting thing is that, much to the dismay or quite a few people in quite a few countries, Nato will be training a force of Iraqi fighting men. Presumably to operate in a peace keeping role as well as protecting the country from terrorists and would-be usurpers. (article) Keep a close eye. I don't believe this to be done. Not by a long shot.