[mtbopfuyn]

Oh, come on. Riding around in a HumVee means you are not necessarily out in the dust - and with all the down time while riding around, it would be an ideal time to clean your weapon - a little bumpy, but not all THAT hard. Secondly, a simple condom placed over the end of your rifle barrel will keep any dirt or dust out. Bottom line, there is NO excuse for never maintaining your weapon. Never. But, that's just the opinion of someone who would want to stay alive and thus would make it a priority.

Exactly. You pegged it. There is no excuse. I find it hard to believe that nearly each and every single make and model didn't function. There's more to this story than is getting reported, most likely they were surprised and out numbered.

[Chad Fairbanks]

Surprised and outnumbered, I can understand. But if anyone can show me reports of darn near entire units elsewhere in Iraq having these kinds of weapons problems, I'll shut up about it - until then, I'm going to blame irresponsible leadership, and unmotivated soldiers as the cause of the tragedy...

[Chief_Joe]

I find it hard to believe that nearly each and every single make and model didn't function. There's more to this story than is getting reported...

Bingo! Now you are on to something. The report on this attack is fascinating, sad, and tragic, yet it is also very enlightening. When reading a report like this, it sometimes takes a skillful and experienced eye to see what's been put in, what's been left out, and what is left for the viewer to fill in the gaps. At least it does guide one to where he/she should ask the relevant questions.