This entry was published at least two years ago (originally posted on March 14, 2002). Since that time the information may have become outdated or my beliefs may have changed (in general, assume a more open and liberal current viewpoint). A fuller disclaimer is available.
Didn’t we learn anything from the years the Russians spent trying to fight in Afghanistan? Apparently not.
Hundreds of American troops were pulled out of the ground battle with al-Qaeda forces because they failed to adapt to the guerrilla tactics required for fighting in the mountains, according to their Afghan allies.
(Addendum: the MetaFilter comments thread for this article has some good points, if you can dig through the partisian bickering.)