Billy L-bach,
Gladly, I just didn't want to step on my dick anymore than I already had
. In light of the President's statements, I see the role of SF in Afghanistan as transitioning from a combat-based UW/DA mission, to a more traditional model of FID (albeit I presume FID has been a focus for a while), with the caveat of a continuing CT mission against remnants of al Qaeda.
"Here's how we will pursue those objectives. First, America's combat mission will be over by the end of this year. Starting next year, Afghans will be fully responsible for securing their country. American personnel will be in an advisory role. We will no longer patrol Afghan cities or towns, mountains or valleys. That is a task for the Afghan people.
Second, I've made it clear that we're open to cooperating with Afghans on two narrow missions after 2014: training Afghan forces and supporting counterterrorism operations against the remnants of al Qaeda."
As far as what I think I would be doing differently had the president's speech been different, nothing, sir. I will be continuing the same path regardless of the current state of affairs in Afghanistan or any other country. I believe the intent of my original statement, wrongly, came off as wanting to "get some," and for this I apologize. I was merely attempting, (albeit waaaay prematurely) to probe the reality that
should I make it to a team, i'll be an SF baby swimming in a sea of combat veterans, and to how I could best contribute in said situation (getting WAY ahead of myself. Tracking 25m target.)
REPEAT, I am NOT looking to "get my gun on." I am looking to serve and contribute to my highest capacity and then some...in whatever that may entail. Going to/not going to Afghanistan (or any other country) is irrelevant, and was never a factor in my decision to enlist. That said, I've read of the frustration many soldiers face in a post-war/downsizing army, and I was curious what the BTDT's thought about the opportunities to do your job in said situations. Surely many of you have served through these periods and could enlighten a young know-nothing like myself.
However, make no mistake, I am fucking THRILLED about the prospect of serving, let alone on a team, in any capacity...peacetime or not. I'm not shying away from the challenge of being the new guy...I'm embracing it and very much looking forward to proving myself.
As for what I have to offer, I'm not sure there is a way to answer this question without coming off as ignorant/arrogant/naive...but fuck it. I'm bringing an analytical mind, a thirst for knowledge, a do-whatever-it-takes attitude, and god willing a physically capable body. Beyond that, I'll adapt, improvise, and overcome as the situation calls for.
What does SF really do? SF tasks are formally laid out on the front page of this website, as well as in the numerous threads throughout the forums. I recognize the AO for such tasks is worldwide, 24/7/365.
Sorry for this long post and my asinine initial post. Wont happen again.