Packrat is an old washed up pilot who cannot find employment so he sits on the internet all day long trolling these and other sites. He also did not serve. Do not add to the continual decline of his mental state by challenging him. Pack...buddy...keep the faith and I hope you get better.
As for what US forces do. Having done 8 deployments in Afghanistan, I can attest to the extraordinary lengths US personnel go to to avoid non-combatant casualties. Sometimes, at great danger to themselves. I have seen COUNTLESS opportunities to strike targets but the risk of CD was way too high. The opportunity was either lost or saved until another day...at again, greater risk to those involved. Mistakes happen in war...always have and always will. Tragic for all those involved.
Pack, maybe you can find a job designating targets in Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria, Libya, ect. Seems you have a handle on things.