The other day, I sat in one of the offices of the Iraqi 6th Infantry Division Headquarters last night with several of the General Staff Officers as they all had gathered around the TV watching the trial of Saddam Hussein Trial. They were huddled around watching the TV so closely, you would think it was a championship soccer match.
"Are a lot of people watching the trial today, Sir? I asked.
"Everyone in the country is watching this." He replied.
"The judge should not let him go on like that. He is the worst criminal of all! He is not in charge of the courtroom." He continued.
Our conversation went on as COL A. described to me how hated Saddam was, and how Iraqis were anxiously awaiting his conviction and execution. Months earlier, LTC R., one of the other officers, who, like the others, served in the Iraqi Army under Saddam, had told me how Saddam had murdered his brother. He always reminds me every time Saddam's name is mentioned. Almost everyone here has a Saddam horror story. All of the officers, a mix of Sunni and Shia, who when asked, refer to themselves only as "muslim," claim that 95% of Iraqis share their sentiment. They are frustrated with the trial delays, and laugh when Saddam tries to cry injustice about his treatment. They are happy, however, that this monster has finally reached his reckoning.
Thanks for this perspective, we need to hear this!
Posted by: V. Schroeder | December 10, 2005 at 09:06 PM
Yes, thank you for this!
Posted by: Kat in GA | December 11, 2005 at 03:25 AM
Yes, thank you for this perspective. I also marvel sometimes -- did anyone think 3 years ago that we would be reading about an American officer sitting with Iraqi officers talking about the trial of Saddam Hussein? Remarkable.
On another note, I tagged you... giving you the chance to write on a lighter note (and maybe share a little [more] of yourself with us...)
Posted by: Some Soldier's Mom | December 12, 2005 at 04:03 AM
I agree with Soldier's Mom -- she's so right -- who woulda thunk it!? You guys are doing an awesome job!! At least there are a lot of us in the U.S. who DO know the real good news about what's going on in Iraq. (thanks to people like yourself.) By the way, just read in www.hughhewitt.com that 90-95% of Iraqis plan on voting Dec. 15th with the Sunni (former?) insurgents encouraging the citizens to vote. Where's this above the fold in the MSM? Oh, yeah, I forgot -- they only print the stuff that furthers their anti-American, anti-Bush agenda.
Posted by: bethtopaz | December 12, 2005 at 04:15 AM
Not only is it great to hear things like this, it continues to reinforce what MSM doesn't report! Thank you Major K for continuing to share these kinds of stories with us. I am happy the Iraqis will once again be voting this week and continue to keep all of you in my prayers. Be proud of all you do, and stay strong!
Posted by: Gypsy | December 12, 2005 at 06:53 AM
Thanks for sharing this account. I can only imagine what the trial is causing Iraqi's feel. I'm sure it must bring up a lot of horrific memories but they must be pleased as punch to finally see justice.
Keep up the great work!
Posted by: Pamela | December 12, 2005 at 07:43 PM