Debating Chowkay Valley Engagement

"Last month I accompanied a U.S. Army patrol let by Captain Joe Snowden into eastern Afghanistan’s Pashtun-dominated Chowkay Valley. The valley is a minor source of illegal poppies and a major source of local discontent and isolationism; Snowden wanted to get in there, convince the elders to stop growing poppies and try to get a foothold for the Afghan government.

It didn’t go well. We were chased out of the valley by armed men. The elders at Snowden’s meetings scoffed at the captain’s suggestions.

Afghanistan analyst Josh Foust insists Snowden is taking the wrong approach:"
War is Boring

Seriously, and put some "cute" blond haired kid in the lead