Been asking myself the same questions?
Our initial objected (stated) was to find OBL and his Al Queida mafia and put them out of business. Actually, numbnuts actually stated he was going to "end terrorism"....right

Good luck on that one.
Our goals have been so blurred over the past 6 years, that I'm not really sure what the hell we're trying to accomplish?
Peace in the Middle East? - Ain't gonna happen. Never has and never will. Philosophical and religious differences will prevent this from happening.
Stopping Terrorism? - Ain't gonna happen! If you can stop terror, you can end crime. Neither can truly be accomplished. You can route it, slow it down and defer it, but you can't STOP it
Install (Enforce) Democracy? - Again, good luck. The effort to install a free and democratic society is gaining momentum or failing miserably, dependant upon whom you speak with and what you hear or read.
Military websites, journals, blogs, radio, political administration officials and supporters and some who are benefitting in one way or another from the mess, et al indicate we're "winning."
NPR type facilities, the yellow press, anti- bush folks and the like say we're failing.
I tend to listen to both side, look as many facts and facets as possible, and form my own conclusions. Those of us that are more open minded, have no financial or personal interest in the matter, seem to see things for what they are, not what we want them to be.
My conclusion in that regard is, we're treading water. Sure we're making some headway, but unfortunately, within 5-10 years of the final troop withdrawl (unless a presence is maintained in the area by NATO or coalition forces-which means we're still in conflict), the region will be right back where it was or worse

Unless they (the indigenous people or the various regions) are willing, able and equipped to defend themselves, the "bullies" will just come back when the "good guys" are gone.
One report yesterday from a local Iraqi, stated they (locals) were busy trying to stay alive, avoid suicide bombers, attacks, snipers, kidnappings, etc., and blamed the US for thier problem. It's sort of like this. Even under a bad regieme, at least you know who the players are and where you stand:thumbsup:
I have friends serving and working in Iraq, Afghanistan, and "other areas" of the Middle East. To them, I wish them God's speed and a safe return.
To the administration, I wish they'd hurry up and get the hell out so we can try something else!
Like KAP said, there's really not much running thats worth a tinkers dam, but if they can put an end to this nonsense
and maybe the IRS at the same time, Hell! I'd even vote for Billery:thumbsup::lmao:
Oh well, there's my buck 2-50 worth.