Iraqi interpreters looking to settle scores with Saddam by Thibauld Malterre
HABBANIYAH, Iraq (AFP) - It would be difficult to find a more diverse group -- a former bodybuilder, a budding seminarian, an engaging fast-talker, an aging scholar -- but interpreters for the US military in Habbaniyah are united by a shared sense of mission and a chance to even scores.
The generous salary doesn't hurt either, but it takes more than money to make these Iraqis leave home for months on end, don the uniform of the US marines and go on patrol with them in the insurgency-plagued western province of Al-Anbar.
Each of them has a tale to tell of the past, about life under the old regime, that gives clues to their decision to take on one of the most dangerous jobs in a dangerous country.
"It is an honor to wear the Marine's uniform -- the devil's dogs as the Germans called them. I know everything about them, I've seen the movies and done searches on the Internet," said the fast-talking 22-year-old, who's taken the pseudonym "Jaguar".
...
"My uncle tried to kill Saddam, so Saddam killed my uncle. He killed my father; he sent my mother to jail," said Jaguar. "I thank God and George Bush for giving us freedom and stopping Saddam Hussein, the motherf---er."
(more)
http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20060618/wl_mideast_afp/iraqusunrestinterpreters