New commander will increase tempo of U.S. operations in conclusive stage of ISIS fight

Increase the tempo, then back off a little, than crank it up.

Trying to fight one war separately in two countries and with allies and un-allies is a fragile thing indeed. Fighting it with an almost ally that is using tactics from 1914 as the lead - against an enemy that understands modern war... is a difficulty that makes it all the more a question of "on to Mosul" being the "on to Richmond" cry of its day. Townsend is a good man - and hope he has a great team around him to be able to react to the issues ahead! In Mosul - the biggest issue is not the battle for the city - its what comes after it that is the most critical aspect of the whole fight in Iraq. Failing in the after SSTR by the GOI will mean that even the tactical victory on the ground will lead to a longer war between the Shia and Sunni across Iraq.

COL (Join to see) yep...it is time! No safe havens!!