Bush's Troop Buildup

U.S. troop buildup in Iraq getting bigger

By ROBERT BURNS, AP Military Writer

The total number of troops required for the plan, while still uncertain, is climbing. When Bush announced the boost of 21,500 combat troops, the Pentagon said still others would be required to go with them in support roles. Its initial estimate of 2,400 support troops has doubled and may go higher still.

The cost also is rising. Administration officials conferred with lawmakers this week about an extra $1 billion, on top of the original $5.6 billion. The actual cost depends on how long the troop reinforcement is sustained.

When asked about the duration of the buildup, Gates has noted that funds for this purpose are only budgeted through September, which marks the end of the government's budget year. This week, however, it was disclosed that Lt. Gen. Ray Odierno, a top commander in Iraq, has recommended that the buildup stretch into 2008.

At a news conference Thursday, Gen. David Petraeus, who arrived in Baghdad in February as the top U.S. commander, hinted at a longer-term buildup. "You generally think that if you're going to achieve (the desired results), that it would need to be sustained certainly for some time well beyond summer," he said, adding that his subordinate commanders are looking at options well in advance of when decisions will have to be made.

To review:

*Bushco asked for 21,500 extra troops, at a cost of ONE Billion to flush down the toilet that is Iraq. His republic party cronies subsequently lost the election on the basis of his request (and his raging incompetence).

*The Decider sends the original 21,500, so his generals raised his bid by 2,400 support personnel.

Does he know or care that the public thinks he's insane???

*Why no, since he's seeing their raise and betting another 2,400 support personnel that he can keep the war going well into 2008. This will be costing the US Public another FIVE Billion Dollars.

*Meanwhile, Gen. David Petraeus saw that and raised the bid by around 2,200 more MP's to help with an anticipated increase in detainees and for other duties.

*That would put the total number of support troops at 7,000.

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