And another thing…

Governor Richardson…

But if it said 1,000 [troops] to protect the American embassy, that’s fine with me. It’s a Marine detachment. It’s part of our diplomatic corps. I wouldn’t even consider that a residual force. Of course I would permit that. But residual forces — 5,000 to guard an embassy — that means that the embassy is not safe. I would pull the embassy if it is not safe.

An embassy Detachment of Marine Security Guards isn't 1000 Marines. It isn't 100 Marines. In fact, there are just over 1000 MSGs split between 121 Detachments.

1000 Marines is a serious deployment, and an embassy that needs them is likely no more safe than one that needs 5000.

1000 Marines is a residual force.

Governor Richardson should know that.

But he doesn't, and that's not fine with me.