U.S. Weighs a Larger Role for Marines in Afghanistan
On December 1, Marine Corps Commandant James Conway announced that he is pressing to shift all Marine combat operations from Iraq to Afghanistan. In an interview with CNN, Conway said if his proposal is approved, the shift would occur next year, and would be accomplished during the routine rotation of forces.
"The trend lines tell us that it may be time to increase the force posture in Afghanistan," he said. The reinforcements would be used to fight the Taliban. However, other military leaders, such as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Adm. Mike Mullen have recommended against the proposal. About 300 marines are currently stationed in Afghanistan.
