IRAQ: Time is the biggest thing

The biggest question in Iraq may be: When can the Americans go home?

The short answer from military officials involves getting the Iraqi army and police capable of standing on their own.

Marine Gunner Stuart White, now in his third tour in Iraq, runs the training program for Iraqi soldiers at Habbaniya. "I think we have a clear vision of what we want," he said. "It's like teaching a man to fish. It cannot be done overnight."

So how long?

"I just can't say it'll be done in a year. Time is the biggest thing. They have a desire to do this. The difference from last year is night and day. I don't think there's a lack of heart to fight on their part. Now it's a matter of education for their leadership and their officers."

As a gunner, White is an expert in weaponry. He also knows what fighting is like. He was part of 3rd Battalion, 5th Regiment, one of the lead units in the bloody battle in Fallouja in late 2004.

Ask him, as I did, about Fallouja and his eyes mist over with thoughts of young Marines who died to retake the city from the insurgents.

— Tony Perry in Habbaniya

Photo: Iraqi officers learning about the AK-47 from Marine instructors at Habbaniya. Credit: Tony Perry / Los Angeles Times