May 9, 2003

Messages to the Iraqi People

We asked United States soldiers in Operation Enduring Freedom, “What do you want the Iraqi people to know about America's mission?"  Here are some responses:

“We want to free the citizens of Iraq from oppression and brutality, in order that you may choose your preferred way of life without fear of persecution, retribution or execution.  I wish the people of Iraq peace and happiness.”

Master Chief Petty Officer , U.S. Navy, from Summerville, SC

“Fighting in a war is never desired, but I feel ultimately, that the people of Iraq as a whole will be better for it.”

Master Gunnery Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, from Clarksburg, WV

“We want to restore Iraq and give her back to the citizens who live here.  We want to see Iraq grow and prosper in away that the people of Iraq will no longer have to live feeling threatened, without basic necessities, and without the common decencies that every human being deserves.”

Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, from Champlain, NY

“Our mission in Iraq is designed to help [the Iraqi people] see that there is a better life; a life which will give them the freedom to make their own choices, practice their own religion, and educate their children.”

Sergeant, U. S. Marine Corps, from Harrisonville, MO

“I would the Iraqi people to know each freedom we believe in is worth fighting for.  State-run television and newspapers are a thing of the past.  Speaking and writing what you believe is no longer prosecutable and to stand up for what you believe in.  My mission is telling it how it is; something they should all begin practicing.”

Petty Officer, U.S. Navy, from Mount Pleasant, TX

“The U.S. troops were proud to fight for their freedom and for the future freedom of the entire world.”

Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, from Memphis, TN

“The Iraqi people need to know that we will bring them their freedom.  Soon they will be able to enjoy it and live healthier lives.”

Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, from Florida, NY

“We are not here to take over [Iraq], we are here to liberate it and give them a better way of life.”

Staff Sergeant, U.S. Air Force, from Columbus, GA

“We are here to give them the independence they deserve.  They do not have to walk around in fear anymore.”

Master Sergeant , U.S. Air Force from Palm Beach Gardens, FL

“I’m here to free [Iraq] from an evil dictator, to allow the people of Iraq to have freedom of speech, freedom of expression, freedom to think for themselves, freedom to be independent, freedom to be educated, and to know what it is like to be a human being instead of being treated as a puppet.”

Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps from Jersey City, NJ

“I’m here in the Middle East to remove Sadaam Hussein and his government from power in order to allow the people of Iraq a chance to know what the word freedom really means.”

Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, from Jourdanton, TX