

Discussion on the Iraq War Study, Security Force Assistance and Force Management with Frank Sobchak
64 snips Jan 19, 2025
Retired Colonel Frank Sobchak, a former Special Forces officer and author of 'Training for Victory,' shares valuable insights from his extensive military experience. He discusses the complexities of the Iraq War, emphasizing the need for effective coalition dynamics and the importance of qualitative over quantitative measures in assessing military readiness. Sobchak also reflects on the challenges of resource allocation for host nation forces and the significant political and strategic shifts necessary for U.S. interests in the Middle East.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
CMH Obstruction
- The Center of Military History attempted to undermine the Iraq War study.
- They wrote letters to the Vice Chief of Staff and attacked team members' characters.
Suppression of the Study
- The Iraq War study was nearly suppressed due to concerns about controversy, differing opinions, and career impacts.
- Differing opinions over COIN's relevance and a shift in the Army's focus caused further issues.
Shinseki-Rumsfeld Clash
- General Shinseki's testimony to Congress about troop needs for Iraq contradicted SecDef Rumsfeld, creating friction.
- This friction led to the firing of Army Secretary White and impacted Shinseki's career.