May 25,2008:
A recent offensive operation in
Afghanistan's Kunar province was less successful because in three of five
landing areas for the assault helicopter force, the enemy knew the attack was
coming, and were able to flee ahead of time. An investigation concluded that
the likely source of the leak was U.S. troops discussing the operations, and
being overheard by Afghan workers on the base. Another security lapse, was six
Afghan soldiers caught carrying cell phones and one a satellite phone, into
action. Such devices were forbidden in the combat zone for this operation.
Everyone
promised to do better next time.