I spent some time in Iraq running convoys to Bagdhad during the war so I can help with some of these questions.

1. I haven't talked to a whole lot of Irai people but I have spent quite a bit of time in various Middle east countries (Kuwait, Saudi, Bahrain, Turkey, Oman and a lil iraq time) Of course most of the people I have talked to worked or were in direct contact with the military so they aren't going to come out and say they hate you too much. Seems to me the biggest issue these (and many others around the world) have is they feel like we are trying to push our "Western Ways" off on everyone else. I think a large amount of the world views the U.S. as ethnocentric; they feel our attitude is "We're the best and you should all try to be like us so we're going to help you become like us." Of course, it's impossible to speak for a world, or even a nation of people...that's just my opinion and view based on the people I have talked to and interacted with.

2. When we were running convoys through Iraq I was surprised how many people were so happy to see us. I'm not sure if it was because they wanting food or something from us or just real happiness but we had a lot of people trying to run up to us and thank us. It was a bit scary because you never knew if one of those kids was coming with a bomb strapped to them. All I know is it felt good seeing so many happy children that seemed to appreciate what we did for them. There were others that kind of gave you a look that said "Infidel go home" as well though. It's really hard to tell who's acting like they love us just to get close to get info and who actually does appreciate what we have done.

The third question can really be answered by anyone and is totally opinion based and will lead to another 50 page thread of stuff that has already been said tons of times on these boards.

I'd be interested to see what Sandman has to say as well as a comparison to my experiences and also to see if things have changed much since just after the war when I was over there. I'm sure some of those joyful people are now turning against of because we're still there. Anyway...my $.02

Formerly known as Sneaku I MISS MY BABY!!! '00 Blk CSVT #1087/2150 built 12/23/99