May 13, 2004

We let our allies down, say Spanish troops back from Iraq

[...]
Yet soldiers now regret leaving Iraq so hastily following Mr Zapatero's election victory on March 11, three days after the terrorist train bombs in Madrid that killed 190 people and wounded 1,900. They also expressed disappointment over a lack of official recognition on their return and the public's seeming willingness to forget them and their mission.

Cpl José Francisco García Casteñeda, who previously completed three tours in Bosnia, said: "We left our coalition colleagues behind and abandoned the local people, who are living in wretched conditions."

Sitting at the same cafe table, Sgt Manuel García, 31, went further in his criticism of the withdrawal. "We felt used and let down by the politicians. Zapatero made the move purely for his own popularity," he said.

I'll say it now if the Spanish people won't: Bravo and Muchas Gracias to the Spanish Brigade!
You all served honorably and bravely while you were in OIF and some made the ultimate sacrifice.
It's not your fault that the Zapatero vote went against your participation and Spain will reap the whirlwind of bowing to Al Queda's wishes by withdrawing their troops from Iraq as "requested" by the Madrid bombings.
The Coalition is grateful for what you did and we'll always remember that under Aznar, you served well in the battle for Freedom, Justice and Peace.
Let's look for the day when Spain returns to her senses.