War Machine

General Glen McMahon, a four-star general, embarks on his mission to end the conflict in Afghanistan, drawing inspiration from General Stanley McChrystal. He aims to utilize his military lineage and strong educational background to foster effective leadership among his troops.

Glen assembles a diverse team of military leaders, including Colonel Cory Staggart and Major General Greg Pulver. Each member plays a crucial role in supporting Glen’s vision and execution of strategy in Afghanistan.

During his early meetings, Glen interacts with Pat McKinnon, the U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan, discussing the complexities of concluding the war. Glen receives warnings about the dangers of requesting more troops, highlighting tensions between military goals and political realities.

Glen meets President Hamid Karzai, who attempts to avoid discussions by feigning illness. This encounter underlines the challenges Glen faces with local leaders as he assesses the turbulent situation in Afghanistan.

Glen realizes that the insurgency in Afghanistan is primarily driven by local factions rather than structured armies. This grim recognition leads him to reconsider the U.S. military strategy of winning hearts and minds through local governance and development.

A British commander advises Glen to retract from combat-heavy areas like Helmand province to focus on regions that may support the mission. This conversation prompts Glen to rethink his operational approach amidst ongoing military concerns.

Glen boldly requests an additional 40,000 troops to bolster U.S. efforts in Afghanistan. This ambitious move incites anger among his peers, including Dick Waddle, and is met with refusal from the U.S. Secretary of State, limiting Glen's operational freedom.

In a candid discussion with returning marines, Glen confronts the morale issues among his troops. Their challenges against the harsh realities of war highlight the difficulties of implementing his strategy in the face of persistent danger.

As electoral processes unfold in Afghanistan, significant corruption emerges, and Captain Badi Basim joins Glen’s team to help navigate these issues. Glen’s growing frustration leads him to leak a critical assessment report to the media, showcasing his discontent with bureaucratic hindrances.

Despite facing numerous setbacks, Glen's considerable efforts culminate in a troop surge authorized by President Obama. However, Glen remains anxious about the Taliban exploiting the precarious situation as he navigates various political landscapes.

As the troop surge takes shape, Glen encounters the grim realities of combat in Helmand province. Local families react negatively to military presence, creating further challenges in earning local support amid the ongoing conflict.

Amid escalating tensions, journalist Sean Cullen publishes a highly critical portrayal of Glen’s leadership, deeming his approaches reckless and counterproductive. This public scrutiny adds to Glen's mounting pressure and complicates his position further.

In light of the various complications and the critical media portrayal, Glen is ultimately recalled to Washington. His departure marks a significant shift in military leadership as General Bob White prepares to step into the challenging role left in a tumultuous Afghanistan.