Iraq Journal: Anbar Awakens, Part II

[tmorr37]

Who says the surge isn't working?
Who wouldn't want more of this

Iraq Journal: Anbar Awakens, Part II
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,...fnc.world/iraq

I was greeted by friendly Iraqis on the streets of Baghdad every day, but the atmosphere in Ramadi was different. I am not exaggerating when I describe their attitude toward Americans as euphoric.
Grown Iraqi men hugged American soldiers and Marines.
Young men wanted me to take their pictures with their arms around American soldiers and Marines. The Americans seemed slightly bored with the idea, but the Iraqis were enthusiastic.
Children hugged State Department civilian reconstruction team leader Donna Carter.
Ramadi has changed so drastically from the terrorist-infested pit that it was as recently as April 2007 that I could hardly believe what I saw. The sheer joy on the faces of these Iraqis was unmistakable. They weren’t sullen in the least, and it was pretty obvious that they were not just pretending to be friendly or going through the hospitality motions.

[rykpa]

Who says the surge isn't working?
Who wouldn't want more of this

Iraq Journal: Anbar Awakens, Part II
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,...fnc.world/iraq

I was greeted by friendly Iraqis on the streets of Baghdad every day, but the atmosphere in Ramadi was different. I am not exaggerating when I describe their attitude toward Americans as euphoric.
Grown Iraqi men hugged American soldiers and Marines.
Young men wanted me to take their pictures with their arms around American soldiers and Marines. The Americans seemed slightly bored with the idea, but the Iraqis were enthusiastic.
Children hugged State Department civilian reconstruction team leader Donna Carter.
Ramadi has changed so drastically from the terrorist-infested pit that it was as recently as April 2007 that I could hardly believe what I saw. The sheer joy on the faces of these Iraqis was unmistakable. They weren’t sullen in the least, and it was pretty obvious that they were not just pretending to be friendly or going through the hospitality motions.

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a financial stock in play here.

It is great to see dedicated Americans helping those who need the help and to see those helped being appreciative of the sacrifice.