To the editor:

Conventional versus nonconventional? I am speaking about the new wave of fighting in Iraq. Our coalition troops found out that conventional ways of fighting may no longer be the way to go after the Iraqis lured our troops into a trap. Many are surprised at this, but I am not. After seeing what people will do to kill Americans after Sept. 11, 2001, this unconventional type of fighting is no surprise.

Our commanders must quickly realize that -- even with all of our superpower machines, planes and guns -- the element of surprise is the ultimate weapon. Our coalition commanders must refocus and stress to our troops that what is learned in basic training and in books may not be what is used in urban warfare. The Iraqis know they are in a war they cannot win. I assume they feel whatever method they can use to fight for their lives will be used.

Many thought this would be an easy war and our forces would just walk in and take over. That is not going to happen.

KEVIN WADE

Jackson