U.S. Army issues new manual for nation-building

WASHINGTON, Oct 6 (Reuters) - The U.S. Army on Monday released a new field manual that for the first time gives nation-building the same top priority as major combat operations in conflicts involving fragile states. The Stability Operations Field Manual, derived from the Army's experiences in Iraq and Afghanistan, provides commanders and other Army personnel with a guide for supporting broader U.S. government efforts to deliver development, reconstruction and humanitarian aid in war-torn nations. Army officials described the document as a roadmap from conflict to peace. "Our objective, when we go into a foreign country, is to leave but to leave with that country safe and secure," said Lt. Gen. William Caldwell, commander of the U.S. Army Combined Arms Center. "If we work to ensure stability has returned, it will allow their... [read full story]