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U.S. advisers are pleased with General Ibrahim Tannous, 53, a career officer who is commanding general of the Lebanese armed forces. Tannous has ruthlessly purged corrupt officers, halted the practice of officers' wearing high-heeled boots instead of combat boots, and tried to strike a more even balance at the top of the traditionally Christian command structure by bringing up able Muslim officers. Ultimately, Lebanon will have a truly national army only if the Muslim population is convinced that the military properly reflects the country's religious diversity. That will require not only a stronger Muslim presence at the top, but more tact and caution than the army has displayed so far in dealing with sectarian disturbances.
According to U.S. officials, one infantry brigade and three companies of trained helicopter assault troops will be available for deployment in southern Lebanon within a few weeks. Says Colonel Fintel: "I do not see any reason why they cannot secure the border with Israel." The normally jaded Lebanese, meanwhile, are beginning to show some signs of pride in their army. When a column of armored personnel carriers paraded along Beirut's crowded seaside corniche one Saturday evening, passers-by burst into cheers.