On Point II Transition to the New Campaign

On Point II: Transition to the New Campaign is the second volume in the history of the Iraq War published by the U.S. Army.

The report, written by Timothy Reese and Donald Wright, focuses on the period immediately after the fall of Saddam Hussein in 2003. It argues that planning for the invasion of Iraq was inadequate and faults Pentagon officials for not committing enough troops or resources in initial stages.¹

Fast Facts

1. Made public on June 30, 2008
2. Report almost 700 pages long
3. Based on 200 interviews
4. Concentrates on 18 months after George W. Bush's May 2003 announcement combat operations were over
5. Argues lack of planning led to difficulties after the fall of Saddam Hussein²
6. Finds inadequate training was also an issue²
7. Also argues not enough soldiers or resources were initially provided²
8. Finds inadequate training was also an issue³

Quotes

"In line with the prewar planning and general euphoria at the rapid crumbling of the Saddam regime, Franks continued to plan for a very limited role for U.S. ground forces in Iraq"¹—On Point II: Transition to the New Campaign, The Associated Press

"Few commanders foresaw that full spectrum operations in Iraq would entail the simultaneous employment of offense, defense, stability, and support operations by units at all echelons of command to defeat new, vicious, and effective enemies."¹—On Point II: Transition to the New Campaign, The Associated Press

"One of the great and least understood qualities of the United States Army is its culture of introspection and self-examination"¹—William S. Wallace, commanding general of U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command, The Associated Press

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