How do you feel when civilians tell you that the war in Iraq and Afghanistan is strictly political?

Exactly what I was going to say!

Depending on which translation one reads, remember Clausewitz’s statement “war is simply a continuation of political intercourse, with the addition of other means.”

I believe you have misunderstood the troopers question. The question is about 'why are we fighting?' This question is raised by every generation. As the trooper lacks the advantage of ILE and War College, his frame of reference is different.

SMSgt Lawrence McCarter - Politics is in every organization and the reason for almost every conflict is failed diplomacy. Although the battlefield is a different environment than DC or any other capitol city, the reason for the location and the strategic purpose for the conflict is entirely political. Combatants may not perceive the political reason or influence but it exists. Politicians send soldiers, sailors, marines, airmen and Coast Guard to combat instead of continuing diplomatic effort or going themselves. These combatants are surrogates for the politicians and once combat is concluded, the politicians return to negotiate treaties.

COL (Join to see) - Can't argue that the cause is political nor are those on the battlefield ignorant to that fact. Large financial gains is also a factor with some of those politicians involved. that is not anything new. Most of us in Viet Nam were well aware of those facts an not happy with the micro-Management from Washington politicians, often self serving and for greed. Even the Rules of Engagement We were bound by were well appreciated by the enemy, they had no such restrictions. There is no shortage of reasons Men and women end up in combat but it isn't the politicians that pay in blood !

SMSgt Lawrence McCarter - If politicians had to put anything at risk, beyond their chances to retain office, I suspect we would have far fewer conflicts and more conflicts with a clearer determination of the outcomes desired before we engage in conflict. Unfortunately, finding uncorruptible citizens, who selfless serve in office, is a real challenge. Too many have too much to gain personally, while 'serving' in office. Corruption apparently has become the norm, which is why I believe Trump has made it as far as he has.

Dead Carl was right on there.

Someone remembered his ILE.