This book would not have been possible without the efforts of Sandy Cochran and Kelly Howard, who have been involved in this effort since Iraq and who assisted me in researching, writing, and fact-checking. I am also appreciative of the comments from many who read the paper, and of the support of the National Defense University Press, particularly Frank G. Hoffman, Jeffrey D. Smotherman, and Tara J. Parekh. Finally, my wife, Sheila, was my strongest supporter throughout my career and particularly during my time in Iraq. She is also a tireless advocate for the families of the men and women of our Armed Forces.