The rules of engagement when I was in Afghanistan were very flexible. When you're at war, you're at war.
This quote highlights the harsh realities of warfare, where strict rules of engagement often give way to necessary flexibility in the face of unpredictable and often dangerous situations. It underscores that combat isn't bound by simple regulations; instead, it demands adaptability and quick judgment to ensure safety, accomplish missions, and respond effectively to threats. Such realities can challenge soldiers' morality and decision-making processes, revealing the complex nature of military operations and the fine line between order and chaos in war zones. Ultimately, it emphasizes that warfare conditionally becomes lawless in practice, even if governed by rules in theory.