In the Rearview Mirror

The last convoy of American forces exited Iraq last night. No doubt troopers are happy to be crossing that international border. The American War in Iraq is over.

But neither war or America will be absent from Iraq. War will continue among Iraqis living in one of the world's most dangerous places. Thousands of US contractors working out of the world's largest embassy will project as much influence as our national treasury can buy. The contractor formerly known as Blackwater has changed its name yet again to reflect the new dawn in Iraq. The beat most certainly goes on.

But for now, Americans can at least find some solace in the ceremonies marking the change of command and an orderly withdrawal. That much, at least, is over. No desperate rooftop helicopter evacuation (*).

With that thought in mind and fully mindful of the America's continued presence in Iraq I can only say,

WHAT A FUCKING WASTE!

Andrew Bacevich offers a similar conclusion in somewhat more temperate language supported with informed observations and clear thought. I strongly recommend reading the whole thing.

But it also helps to scream.

__________

(*) Yet.