March 31, 2003

Iraqis Welcome U.S. Marines in Shatra

Hundreds of Iraqis shouting "Welcome to Iraq" greeted Marines who entered the town of Shatra Monday after storming it with planes, tanks and helicopter gunships.

A foot patrol picked its way through the small southern town, 20 miles north of the city of Nassiriya, after being beckoned in by a crowd of people.

"There's no problem here. We are happy to see Americans," one young man shouted.

The welcome was a tonic for soldiers who have not always received the warm reception they expected after U.S. and British leaders told them the Iraqi people were waiting to be freed from repression under President Saddam Hussein.[Typical Reuters America-bashing crap.--Jen]

"It's not every day you get to liberate people," said one delighted Marine.

Thank God the Iraqis are starting to " get it" that Saddam's regime is doomed, his reign of terror is at an end and the Coalition forces are there to stay with democracy and a better future for them!
Let Freedom Ring in Iraq.
And thumbs up to both the residents of Shatra and the Marines!