Dramatic Drop in US Casualties in Iraq

Iraq Coalition Casualty Count clearly shows the dramatic drop in violence in Iraq.

June 2007 was the first month of The Surge, which officially began on 15 Jun 07 as the last Brigade arrived and took over its mission in Iraq.

In May 2007, there was 126 US deaths (the highest month for 2007). In December 2007, thus far, there have been 16, representing a drop of 83%.

In December of 2006, there was 116 US deaths (the highest month for 2006). The 16 deaths in December 2007 represents a drop of 86%.

While not wanting to be grisly, if the rate of US deaths in Decembar 2007 holds at .668 per day or a projected total of 20 for the month, December 2007 will equal the lowest month (Febrauary 2004) of US deaths since the start of the war which will represent a drop of 85% of US deaths in November 2004 (the highest month for US deaths).

The decline in US deaths is dramatic as is the drop in civilian casualties in general. Iraqis by the thousands are returning to Iraq. Iraqis are no longer supporting Al Qaeda in Iraq which has caused undue bloodshed in this cradle of civilization.

If these numbers persist, clearly Al Qaeda in Iraq is defeated.

Our next mission is to ensure they do not regenerate their forces, continue to protect the population, rebuild the infrastructure, and assist grassroot movements (like CLCs and returning of citizens), to strengthen and assist the Iraqi Government so it can sustain these gains.