Sleepy Iraqi Town Becomes a War Zone

[leftchick]

http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&cid=540&ncid=736&e=2&u=/ap/20040228/ap_on_re_mi_ea/iraq_tranquility_shattered

<snip>
"The fighters attack with mortars or ambush them, and the Americans respond with massive firepower. It's a nightmare," Shalal said.

When the U.S. facility, which the Americans call Forward Operating Base Michael, comes under attack, U.S. troops seal off roads in the area, causing further inconvenience.

A billboard posted at the entrance of the town says "Coalition forces and the city council work together to develop Yousefiah." But residents say the sign is as deceptive as the surface calm, which is often, and regularly, shattered by short-lived but fierce exchanges of fire.

"At times it's unbearable. The sound of explosions is deafening. The helicopters hover so low that you think they are about to land in my backyard," said Shalal, who lives in a compound of small houses with his father and brothers.

[Mari333]

1. Oh christ. No wonder my stepson said he was on a blackout.

and he couldnt email us. Hes just south of Baghdad.
This is too much to bear.
His name is Michael, and I find it terrifying that this is also the name of the Operation.
Get us out of there, and let the Iraqi people have their country back.

http://www.bringthemhomenow.com

[TacticalPeek]

2. Kick the bum out. n/t