http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/Afghanistan/article6865359.ece

<quotes>

American soldiers serving in Afghanistan are depressed and deeply 
disillusioned, according to the chaplains of two US battalions that have 
spent nine months on the front line in the war against the Taleban.

Many feel that they are risking their lives - and that colleagues have 
died - for a futile mission and an Afghan population that does nothing to 
help them.

"The many soldiers who come to see us have a sense of futility and anger 
about being here. They are really in a state of depression and despair and 
just want to get back to their families"

"They feel they are risking their lives for progress that's hard to discern. 
They are tired, strained, confused and just want to get through." The 
chaplains said that they were speaking out because the men could not.

"We're lost - that's how I feel. I'm not exactly sure why we're here," said 
Specialist Raquime Mercer, 20, whose closest friend was shot dead by a 
renegade Afghan policeman last Friday. "I need a clear-cut purpose if I'm 
going to get hurt out here or if I'm going to die."

The only soldiers who thought it was going well "work in an office, not on 
the ground". In his opinion "the whole country is going to s***".

"Everyone you meet is just down, and you meet them everywhere - in the 
weight room, dining facility, getting mail," said Captain Rico. Even "hard 
men" were coming to their tent chapel and breaking down."

The soldiers joke that their Isaf arm badges stand not for International 
Security Assistance Force but "I Suck At Fighting" or "I Support Afghan 
Farmers".

</quotes>

I'll admit I wouldn't want to be over there. This is the problem in choosing 
to fight a war in a foreign land where the people of that country don't want 
you there, see you as invaders or occupiers not as friends nor liberators.

I suppose it's a bit like 'a friend' who invites themselves round and 
outstays their welcome. You might not do anything proactive to get rid of 
them, but you won't be doing anything to encourage them not to leave as soon 
as possible. Eventually though patience does wear out.