1. Is talking to the No. 2 in command akin to talking to the VP? As in, what he says really doesn't mean a whole lot of anything?
2. This passage troubles me, as it reminds me (to put in in simplest terms) of one shoving all his checkers to the right, and the opponent running down the left to get all the kings:
Odierno also cited Mosul as an example of how the U.S. will gradually take on more of an oversight and support role, as Iraqi forces take the lead.
"I see what we're doing in Mosul as a model for the future," he said. "When we reduce our forces over time and the Iraqis take primacy for security, we will be here to assist them when they need it."
Mosul has seen persistent problems with violence ... And while the totals have not been determined, Odierno said the U.S. may add some combat power there, and over time would maintain enough troops to reinforce the Iraqis.