First world troops or third world, it doesn't seem to matter. Its more a question of leadership wouldn't you say?

Well, on the spot leadership matters, sure. But it's an entire culture of professionalism that has been inculcated from basic training onward that is the key.

Abu Ghraib happened for a variety of reasons, including mixed messages from the top of the chain of command. The bottom line, though, was amateur National Guard soldiers being led by amateur National Guard generals. Better on-the-ground leadership would have helped but it's hard to overcome a thug mentality and undisciplined soldiers given a great deal of discretion.

The combination of using mostly troops from unprofessional Third World militaries and the total lack of consequences for bad behavior is a recipe for disaster.

James,

First world troops or third world, it doesn't seem to matter. Its more a question of leadership wouldn't you say? Abu Ghraib came about through a mixture of bad decision making on the part of the administration in relation to GITMO, those decisions then transferring to Iraq, and a lack of moral leadership on the ground.

There is hardly an army more professional than our own, and yet only the lowest on the totem pole have been called to account. Those caught say they were following orders, the administration cries ignorance, and Outside the Beltway asks any who wish to reply to this post to leave their message after the high moral tone.