The Buckingham

Since 2001, the American military has been stationed and fighting for freedom in Afghanistan. On January 31^st, Seattle Marine Sargent William Stacey became the 1,189^th American to die in Afghanistan. Stacey, 23, represents a growing number of Americans to die in the Middle East while fighting for America.

As the death toll rises, the investment of lives creates a double-edged sword when deciding to leave Afghanistan. America still faces questions about strategy. Some generals believe the plan should entail an Iraq like surge.  Others think a more tentative approach is prudent. Historically Afghanistan has proven to be a difficult battle for world superpowers. In the past, Great Brittan and the former Soviet Union have lost wars in Afghanistan.  Currently, America’s goal is to declare victory by 2014.