The people of Wotton-Bassett next to RAF Lyneham are absolutely brilliant. Whenever there's a repatriation, they're out in force lining the streets, paying their respects whatever the weather. There were a couple of old boys with snow on their shoulders in the winter, stood to attention at the procession passed.
All training the forces were doing prior to this year was geared towards 'A war', now the emphasis of training is geared towards 'The war' (Afghan). We're going to be there for a few years yet with no sign of an end state at the moment. The training is excellent and the equipment is improving. Unfortunately the Taliban realised they can't beat NATO head on and have now adopted insurgency tactics with IED's, Suicide bombers, etc, which is why the fatalities have risen sharply. Once NATO have adapted these deaths should be minimised.
The death rate of Brit soldiers raised during Op TELIC 7 - 10 (Iraq 06-07) due to IED's but new tactics were formulated and deaths were minimised. The one thing the Soviets didn't have was the support of the Afghan people. Once they're fully trained and can secure their own country, we can look at 'popping smoke' and leaving.
To the boys that have given their lives including a fellow RMP Sergeant - Respect to you all, Brothers and Sisters.