John Vines
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"John Randolph Vines" is the former commander of the U.S. Army's XVIII Airborne Corps and Multi-National Corps - Iraq.

Vines previously commanded the U.S. 82nd Airborne Division/82nd Airborne Division during the U.S. deployment to Afghanistan. He was responsible for tactical combat missions. Subsequently, Vines replaced Lt. Gen. Dan K. McNeill as the commanding general of U.S. and coalition forces in Afghanistan.

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Based on the national elections that took place in January, we anticipate that insurgents will attempt to intimidate voters and deprive them of the opportunity to vote.

Of course the debate and the bitterness is disturbing. But, after all, we are a democracy, and that is what democracy is about ... people will have differences of opinion.

Countries in the region recognize that there is nothing honorable in coming to Iraq and blowing up fellow Muslims or innocent men, women and children going to a mosque, ... There is action being taken.

There are a lot more Iraqi security forces available to be employed at this time than there were in January of this year.

The problem is, the security mission goes on here and if we take some out, those that are left are at some risk ? it increases their risk, ... Unfortunately, we're not able at this time ? unless someone is known to have a family member wounded or injured or killed ? we're not in a position to make those adjustments.

The primary security for this referendum and the national election ... will be provided for by Iraqi security forces.

The problem is that the security mission goes on here. And if we take some out, those that are left are at some risk. It increases their risk.

He moves furtively. He has what is known as good trade craft, ... ... It means that he knows how to avoid exposure to being caught. He's very good.

There will be very little overall change in the numbers.