War is bloody, expensive and hard. And sometimes, necessary.  The prolonged occupation of Afghanistan was probably not necessary. The initial invasion probably was. But we can debate all of that for decades. And we will. But what is not debatable is the incredibly high cost of leaving your allies, or even your own Marines and troops, to fight and die on their own.  If you leave your people hanging at the most key moment, it will be even more bloody, expensive and hard. And that will be true of the war in Ukraine. And that war to protect the freedom, sovereignty and very existence of Ukraine is not a war of choice. This is a war of necessity.  March Madness is every day in Ukraine. It’s an especially brutal and pivotal time for the war. And we’re strategically digging into what’s most important, what new US weapons are possibly en route, and what’s likely to happen next. To include breaking down what the hell China is doing. With a guest who knows combat and strategy. He’s been there and done that. He’s a returning champion. And a true American hero. A leader who represents the best of what leadership is all about. And a guy who knows a thing or two about things that are bloody, necessary and hard. He’s General Barry McCaffrey. He served in the United States Army for 32 years.  When he retired in 1996, he was the most decorated General serving in the United States Army, having been awarded 3 Purple Heart Medals for wounds received in combat, 2 Distinguished Service Crosses (the nation’s second highest award for valor), and 2 Silver Stars for valor.  He served 4 combat tours taught at West Point--his alma mater. And has a degree from Harvard. He’s in the US Army Ranger Hall of Fame who is also a very proud father and grandfather.  Past appearances: Episode 85 - Nov. 13, 2020 Welcome to a briefing from the General on what’s most important, what’s underreported and what’s next.  Welcome to a master class on Ukraine, China, and America. Welcome to another conversation about war. Yes, another one. Because the war has never stopped. So neither can our conversations about it—and our willingness to explore the truth.  Welcome to a conversation about war time. Which in 2023, is all the time.  Welcome to Independent Americans, Episode 213.  Every episode of Independent Americans breaks down the most important news stories–and offers light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope. Stay vigilant, America.  -Join our Paul Rieckhoff and Independent Americans listeners from around the world on Zoom THIS AND EVERY FRIDAY at 12PM ET for a special and free lunch Q&A. We’ll celebrate the end of another crazy week, take your questions and share some community. -Get extra content, connect with guests, attend exclusive events, get merch discounts and support this critical show that speaks truth to power by joining our IA community on Patreon.  - Watch video of Paul and General McCaffey’s conversation here on our YouTube channel. -Find us on social media and www.IndependentAmericans.us. Where you can also get some very cool IA merch.  -As mentioned on the show, learn more about the engine for independents that is Operation Independents.  -Wanna advertise on the show and support the independent movement? Hit us up! -Also check out new episodes of other Righteous Media podcasts including the B Dorm Podcast, The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra and Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed.  Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. Righteous is an independent, American, Veteran-owned and led content company.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices