The Canadians Led the Way


Michael Yon has a post today from Afghanistan, about "one of the largest and most important missions of the entire war." The Taliban are growing stronger and bolder, and he tried to prepare himself for a humiliating failure. The plan to transport and install a new turbine to the Kajaki Dam, right through enemy territory, was called "Operation Suicide" by some young soldiers.

Instead, Yon is happy to report: "The mission was a brilliant success against substantial odds."

The first phase of the expedition, starting in Kandahar, was in the hands of the Canadians. Our troops acted with enthusiasm and confidence. As did the American, British, Australian and Danish forces. There were no combat fatalities amongst the ISAF allies, while over 200 Taliban fighters died. Repairs to the Dam will provide electricity to over one million people.

This good news has been overshadowed by the recent deaths of four Canadians on other assignments. In Windsor we are still coming to terms with the first fallen solder from our area, Cpl. Andrew Grenon. Windsor Star Columnist Gord Henderson took issue on Saturday with those who think Grenon's sacrifice was futile. Grenon himself wrote a poem during his first tour in Afghanistan about "Why We Fight."

Take a look at Yon's pictures and story. He's not sure we are going to win this war, but he does know we should.

Whether the Kajaki Dam is a turning point in the war, or just another brilliant success on the road to defeat, only time will tell. But for now, let us praise USAID, and the courageous soldiers who went where only eagles dare, to deliver power to the Afghan people. Operation Eagle Summit was a brilliantly planned, brilliantly executed, unqualified success. It was a giant step forward, and a demonstration that ISAF leadership is willing to undertake the type of difficult and risky projects we need to win.

Posted: Mon - September 8, 2008 at 04:10 PM          

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