War games

Even before the campaign began we heard the familiar buzzwords that have hogged the airwaves over the years prior to an assault of this nature. We were all made aware that a mission that evoked the term ‘shock and awe’ was just a matter of days away.

As we were glued to our televisions last weekend, we witnessed the devastation that can be caused by a massive campaign intent on nothing but victory.

The precision and sheer savagery that was on offer was breathtaking and although this was an early salvo we were left in no doubt as to the struggles that faced the opposition.

From the earliest moment of the attack, it was plain to see that the opposition leadership was baffled by the onslaught and following meeting after meeting with his deputies, the man who just days ago was predicting victory, was in trouble.

The planning that had gone into the battle over the last weeks was evident for all to see and the initial assault was devastating. From the moment the first missile was delivered, it was obvious who the aggressors were.

This was not going to be over in a few hours. This battle was destined to continue for some time. How much pressure could be absorbed before submission was attained?

Following the early attack and the subsequent loss of some men, the bar was raised. What was to come a few hours prior to commencement had us all shaking our heads in disbelief. Never before had this sort of devastation been witnessed. Remarkably, resistance was minimal. Wave after wave of attack reigned down until the relentless pressure started to take its toll. Nothing could stop the rampage. Again in front of our television screens we were left with a hollow feeling of emptiness. Was it worth it? How many casualties would emerge from this encounter?

Key positions were lost as the juggernaut rolled on. They seemed intent on destroying all before them. Those, who in years gone by had offered staunch resistance, were reduced to nervous wrecks. The troops seemed to have no leadership, nor direction. The bombardment was perfectly planned and caught the opposition on the back foot. Would the sheer volume of attack on all fronts ever be seen again in an encounter of this magnitude? Most, hoped not.

As dusk crept in on that unforgettable day, only one side could claim the initiative.

The momentum had been gained early that day and there was no turning back. Already in the background the victory speeches were being prepared. There was no gloating, it was expected and it evolved from a mood of brutal confidence.

Those Australians were devastating.