[elhombrelibre]

"Does anyone know if the succesful surge is resulting in fewer Iraqi Army desertions?"

Good question, CM. What do you hear, DJE?

[DJ Elliott]

re: comment 6.

Haven’t seen change reported but, I have seen major returns to duty during the summer. 1st Div in Anbar had 1,001 AWOLs return to duty in May in one incident (2-1 Bde). This was before the Iraqi Military Law changes passed in Sep/Oct.

People like to be on the victorious side.
And the Military Law changes first went to parliament in May.
Many IA AWOLs started returning during the summer to join the winning side and avoid the punishment that would be available after the law changes went into effect.

I haven’t seen updated stats on IA attrition but, 18,000 from all causes in 2006 is not bad considering there were no legal provisions for enforcement and the IA is entirely voluntary. 2006 was a rough year...

The number for 2007 will probably be simular despite the 80% increase of the IA.