The article discusses how the US military has historically played a key role in establishing political order in wars, rather than just focusing on combat. It argues that labeling political and economic reconstruction as postwar problems is a mistake, as governance operations are essential to achieving strategic victory. The failure to plan for governance in Iraq after the major combat phase highlights the importance of integrating political and economic order into war strategies. The study emphasizes the need for military and political leaders to recognize governance operations as a core element of all wars, not just separate peacekeeping activities.