[Larryjk]

Looking at the different posts I am not sure what to actually respond to! Looks like it has degenerated to an argument over the .223 vs .308.
First, I had an opportunity to spend an hour with a US special operations soldier from Afganistan. The local LE are the ones who are fighting the terrorists. The local military are the ones watching the border and trying to keep terrorists out. The US military is mainly involved with the local LE and receiving great help from Predator strikes. She said there were about 6000 US troops in the southern aea where she is involved. The additional 30,000 troops we hear are going to be moved from Iraq to Afgan duty will really be a great addition. She is involved with the training of the local LE types and trying to stop some of the local crime. (Acid strikes on female students).
.223 vs .308. The marines in Iraq were looking for M14s so they would have a weapon capable of killing a target at 800 yards instead of just wounding. They said the .223 just didn't have the energy at the longer range. Special operations riflemen (Marine snipers) will use just about any bolt action .30 caliber they can get their hands on. The involved marine I know said he used a model 70 Winchester in 30-06 in the "pacification" of Fallugia.