Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Terri Barrow, Blackwood, NJ — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 20:24:46 GMT

What an amazing story. For all the Iraqi's that have helped try and bring peace and democracy to them, may God Bless you all and keep you all safe

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Marine Grunt, NJ — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 21:02:28 GMT

Mohammed should pay a visit to Bush and thank him for the pain and suffering he has caused to him his family and the Iraqis

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

B. Landon, Roanoke, VA — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 21:27:43 GMT

I work with Literacy Volunteers and met my friend from Iraq ten years ago, It took her ten years to get her citizenship so now she can go back and visit her family. But all the family there has decided to meet her in Germany and never go into Iraq. They are Kurdish and live in fear of the U.S. backing out and leaving them to the mercy of the rest of Iraq.

She knew the first day the US invaded Iraq that getting terrorist wasn't the goal. She said the US wants our oil. We don't have weapons of mass destruction or the man who headed the bombing in New York.

She also said that Hussein would fall and the US would have a terrible time getting out. But the people involved in oil would become very wealthy.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Dan W Dallas Texas — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 21:40:09 GMT

Sounds like our government is doing all they can to help these people....just like they are representing the citizens of this country.
Every elected official should be removed from office, and someone else elected. What a travesty our government is. Makes me sick. How about impeachement for the officials that let these things happen. Have our elected officials lost all semblance of humanity? Have we been totally sold out to the lower than dirt politicians that run for office for one reason? To be elected. That is all. I say vote them all out, every last one of them. Sickening.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Abo Ali , Iraq, Baghdad — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 21:53:15 GMT

Mohammad you are lucky to get in to US.
I have been trying to get my SIV for more than 7 months and nothing is clear about it.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Bill Steed, Mobile, AL — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 21:55:03 GMT

Wow. The last quote by his Mom is quite remarkable. Thank God I don't have to live like that. Thank God I live in America.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Lo, San Jose, CA — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 21:57:27 GMT

It's great to hear a story like this with a happy ending. That my country refuses entrance to people who've risked their lives to help us is deeply embarrassing to me, especially when promises or at least implications were given that they would be granted asylum. When do I get to be proud of my country again?

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

John Doe , Seattle, Washington — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 23:09:13 GMT

I'm glad he chose America, it's good to be on our side. Now when we take over the world he may share in the glory. America WILL dominate the world soon.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Peter J O'Hara, Georgetown, KY — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 23:14:16 GMT

Good luck to Mohammed and his family in their new life in America. What can be done to help the process along to help those that helped us there in Iraq to get resettled here? If that is what they want I can appreciate the fact that they would rather stay home but if has become too dangerous for them what can be done to speed the process up?

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Shelah Parsons, Lusby, Maryland — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 01:12:50 GMT

Maybe I'm just too sentimental, but as I read this article, I began to cry before the end of it. To me it is beyond understanding how the United States could abandon its brave Iraqi allies for any length of time! I doubt our country acted this way after World War I or II when dealing with the French Resistance or English allies. We as citizens should encourage our representatives in Congress to expedite the resettlement process. The country I grew up in and love does not allow friends and allies to languish in dangerous and depressive conditions such as these Iraqis are currently facing. Come on everyone, let's do the right thing!

Welcome to America, Abdul-Latif Al-Kharki and family.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Gregory Hancock, Hazel Park, Mich. — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 01:16:24 GMT

This difficult story neatly highlights the total failure of our venture in Iraq. The "promise" was that thousands of refugees, who had sought asylum in the US for decades of the 20th Century, would actually return to Iraq and establish the freedoms that they had known in America. There is no hope for Iraq when they bleed their sons and daughters away.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

John Smith, Sarasota Fl — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 01:16:56 GMT

how about taking care of our own country, there has never been Peace in the middleast and never will be, why are we wasting our money there, having our miltary killed, they do not appreciate, thats why gas is so high here and they pay like 45 cents a gallon there, this country is going to hell with rising cost on gas hoems and food, we need to care of our people first,

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Sylvia — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 01:19:08 GMT

What a sad, frustrating, &, I'm sad to say, probably pretty usual, story. What are we doing? We just screw up every day, in every way, it seems sometimes. I hope Mohammed & his family are happy & successful when they do get to the U.S. I hope we don't continue to let them down.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Jack Herr, Clearwater, Florida — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 01:57:19 GMT

That is great of Homeland Security to help this man and his family. Now, what about them making it possible for our friendly Mexican neighbors to work here legally? Then we can say that Homeland Security has solved a big unsolvable problem that no one else in America has solved to date.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

C. Smallwood, Cordova, Alaska — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 03:07:46 GMT

Dear Mohammed and family,
Welcome to America. All my best wishes to you here and those you had to leave behind in Iraq

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

craig, schenectady, New York — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 03:08:08 GMT

good for him. my only regret is that we are taking the best and the brightest out of a country that needs its best and brightest to get back on its feet. but until the security situation improves drastically, there can be no appeal but that of asylum for those who do not want to live in fear, for themselves and their family.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

P. Appleton, North Jersey — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 03:48:12 GMT

Awww. So bitter-sweet.
My heart goes out.
+PEACE+

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Mark New York City — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 06:02:23 GMT

One can only wish Mr. Al-Kharki a good life in the U.S. New York is certainly the right place to start.It's more ethnically mixed than any city in the world and everybody here is from someplace else.So he should feel right at home.And he shouldn't despair that he'll never see Iraq again.Iraq is changing,and for the better.Iraq has been through hell for decades,under Saddam and during this current war.But I believe they've turned a corner this last 18 months and sooner,rather than later Mr.Kharki will be surprised to find that yes,"You can go home again."

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Juliane, Tacoma,WA — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 06:38:24 GMT

I feel bad in my heart for all the people of Iraq. This war should never have happened. Now Mohammed is torn from his family and homeland, it is not right. I am sure it will be difficult for him and his family here in America as many people here are unkind. The best of luck to him and his family.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Tom Thumb, Augusta, ME — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 09:05:22 GMT

Hey, I have a good idea...let's destroy a soverign country on the pretext that its leader has weapons of mass distruction (or whatever is convenient at the time) and then lets act surprised when the country erupts in chaos. Then lets steal all of their oil wealth to benefit our interests and we'll justify all of this by claiming to "fight terrorism". I WONDER WHEN THE AVERAGE AMERICAN IS GOING TO WISE UP TO THE DESIGNS OF ITS OWN GOVERNMENT?

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Belinda Carson San Deigo, CA — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 12:36:59 GMT

While I am sure that there are special cases, the exiles are proving nothing but a burden too countries who, out of the goodness of their hearts, took in these refugees, are now paying thru the nose, France, Holland and Belguim, Ireland etc.

Better for them too stay in Iraq, can't be too bad, Bush says its a " Oasis of peace and prosperity".

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Rich Noland FT Myers, FL — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 12:47:30 GMT

Could not agree more with Tom Thumb from Augusta, nothing but misery has come out of Iraq. Why?, because it all started out with a lie.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Nick Austin TX — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 13:10:17 GMT

I think are president had oil on his mind. I hope this Iraqi dude coming to America has a good time and apperciate what we stand for. I am a OIF veteran been twice to Iraq...can any one tell me what I was fighting for??? I feel like it was a waste to have so many of my comrades die and for what????

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Bob — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 13:16:22 GMT

First, to address the story..

I understand the security concerns, but it's shameful that we've treated the people who have put their lives on the line to work with us this way. Our government turns a blind eye to 30 million illegal mexicans and can't find room for 20,000 more?

But for the record, the US is NOT stealing oil from Iraq. Iraq is being paid for its oil.. at RECORD prices. Also it's important to note that very little Iraqi oil comes to the US.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Kristen, Seattle, WA — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 14:59:24 GMT

Welcome to America. Life here has never been easy for immigrants but hopefully you and your family will find your stride and settle in. My heart and prayers go out to you, your family and your fellow Iraqis. It is my profound hope that; we the people of the United Sates of America, in order to form a more perfect union, remember to be kind and open minded to help you find your way. Good luck to you sir. Peace!!

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

sean Tx — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 15:06:27 GMT

THats good..

I read all these comments and I just have to state an obvious fact.. If we went to war to steal that countrie's oil, gas would be 5 cents a gallon here because the supply would be so huge. Geez, what a bunch of conspiracy theorists, ask any soldier who has been over there, no oil is coming from that country, and by the way.. before the war started gas here was $1.35 a gallon...so your accusations make no sense.

Could it be that this was actually a war intended to root out terrorism, seeing as no democrat president before this admin did anything to alleviate the problem of 30 years of terrorism?

except go and invade bosnia that is, dont you think it odd that all terrorist activities against the U.S. have ceased since the war began? Yeah,something always conviently forgotten by people, we have not had one act of terrorism against the u.s. in six years.. something Clinton and the many bombings he took can not tout.

So what is your solution to the problem, you have a terrorist amry that all mid east countries sponsor in some form or fashion but do not outwardly claim doing their bidding.

So if you want to go get them, what country do you go after when they publicly hide their ties to these armies yet still fund and house them. hmmm.. thinking in those terms, it is now not so easy as an example of going after the German army in ww2 is it? I suppose it is better to hear four or five reports a year about terrorist blowing up something a world a way and killing a few hundred at a time.. as long as it does not happen on your street your conscious is clear.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

ZFR, Alpharetta, GA — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 15:37:02 GMT

Hi:

We should always remember the results of wars and devil acts on humanity !! Just remember what Hitlar of Germany did with jews people 65 years ago. There is a fact that no matter what you do to people having deep roots on history of earth, you can not destroy or illiminate them. The Iraqi people now suffering what other people suffered before them in our modern history, not by the act of God but by the act of human being. All the stories that we hear about the Iraqi families are not some thing that had not happened before. The important thing now is to see how the world humanity can help these individuals to have a better life, at least for the sake of their children !! The Iraqis have been in war zone for the last 40 years, every Iraqi has suffred the burdon of the international political intervention and its associated judgment mistakes!! Alot of the thing that happened in Irag is a result of bad planning and policy making, that the Iraqi people have nothing to do with it, but they have suffered and paid the price high with a blood shade. It is time for the entire humanity of the world to stand up with the Iragis, to bring this new democratic country to live in peace in this world. To educate the Iraqi children to understand that our modern world is only one land that you have to live in it with the others in peace and with out blood shade. No democracy, prosperity, peace and happiness can survive with out education and freedum.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

R.Bonfim — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 15:42:00 GMT

This is America. We consume 60% of the world's resources. We are a democracy and an example to these oppressed countries. So, welcome hurting ones,welcome the hopeless, welcome to the battered and welcome to the dying. We are strong enough to help a few..

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Ash , c , e — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 15:44:41 GMT

All the best muhammed ..and good luck with your new life ...hopfuly it will Compensate what you went throgh ...Take Care brother

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Steve, London — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 16:06:25 GMT

I hope that he has a good life and that he can help his family in Iraq. Good luck!

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Laura — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 16:10:09 GMT

Let ALL OF THEM come to America. Maybe something good would come out of it. If not, it does not matter, since the 60s Left has ALREADY MANAGED TO DESTROY WHAT THIS NATION WAS ALL ABOUT.

Well done, Democrats!!!!!

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Barbara Hayes — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 16:26:22 GMT

How good it is of our goverment to keep out Iraqi's who seek asylum and keep open borders for illegals to gain entry and drain our systems. Way to go America.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

ALAN WOMACK,CLACKAMAS,OREGON — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 16:31:01 GMT

My problem with refugees comeing here to become citizens is that we pay for it and they then remain in there own beliefs of religion and politics; in other words they are here only for the money and do not believe in baseball, apple pie and earning your own way. Leave them all where they are at and stop the aid that is sent to other countries. Lets take care of the people that are already here " and not the rich ". ALAN WOMACK CLACKAMAS OREGON

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

C. Lennon,Calif. — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 16:39:03 GMT

Why do you think it took so long to get the clearance to come to this country? We cant just let anyone in any more. Home land has a job to do. Yes it takes a long time; But look at the thousand's who want to come here.They have to check there background. We don't want another 911. I say welcome if you truly do become a citizen not like all the Mexicans that come to our country and not become citizens

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

KonaMan, Glendale, Calif. — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 17:32:40 GMT

I am happy that Mr. Al-Kharki and his Family are safe in our country and I wish them well. Maybe since this brave man put his life on the line, perhaps the U.S.government will allow his parents to come here too, after all they allow illegal aliens here with their families and they have never done anything but break our laws and take, take, take.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

curt, plainwell, MI — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 17:49:28 GMT

Hey Tom Thumb, I think the average american has already wised up. Lets change things by going to the polls and fix this mess.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Adam, Dallas, Texas — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 17:55:06 GMT

You can't help but feel good about it when someone gets a helping hand. The problems with this war are pretty vast. I don't know what intel Bush had going into it, so I don't try to place blame as much as some people enjoy. The fact is, we're in this knee-deep at this point, and we have a lot of innocent people relying on us now that we've shown an incentive over there. It would be pretty horrible to just abandon them after giving them hope. At the same time, I believe that the problems in the Middle East will never end. If that's the case, this asylum plan may be the best we'll ever have to offer.

I also don't know what to fully believe about the events taking place over there. Most news channels just like to take a single story and run with it nonstop for most of the day. Sometimes I think the only thing I'd take as truth is hearing from a group of soldiers that had been there an extended time.

What a mess.. it's going to be a real headache for years to come, no matter how we handle it.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Jeanne, Hampton Va — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 18:08:14 GMT

It's easy to sit behind your TV and believe the one sided news that you hear..It's quit another thing to pack your bags and head to Iraq with seven other average American women and see for your self what is happening in this country...And that is exactly what I did March of 2007 right when the war was at it's worse...WE went on a humatarian mission to find hospitals that needed aid through giving children hope
a christian NGO. We were in Kurdistan and what I saw and experienced was a people who for the first time in decades were living freely, practicing in democracy and were genuinely happy with life for the first time.. I am not saying that they don't have problems but what I saw and was a part of was close to a miracle...I took part in the first International womans confrence in Iraq that actually addressed the concerns of the Iraqi women, where leaders and politicians and sheiks were all in attendence.( this is unheard of in Muslum culture)
Yes this, like all wars, is not pretty at times....... However we have to stop being so negative and start seeing the good side of things, start seeing the glass 1/2 full....alot of good has been done in Iraq...Our soldiers are doing a wonderful job...My son is now serving in Iraq he is in the Infantry....I am so so proud of him and I am proud of all our service members who have gone to this foriegn way of life and are helping these people rebuild their lives..and helping to build a democracy.
stop feeding into this media frenzy, start being part of the solution instead of part of the problem..If your not happy with Washington then VOTE...we are a blessed nation because we have the power of the vote...this is why we don't have armed conflicts in this country any more..beacuse we can vote..this is what it means to be a democracy whats so so sad is that most of the people doing most of the complainning probably did not exercise their right to VOTE....do you know how many people died in previous wars in this country so you COULD VOTE.....so please please make an informed decision..don't just vote cause someone speaks well or looks good or has the color skin you have or says they want to change Washington ( you know how many politicians say that...ALL of them) do your homework,see what they say about the issues that are pressing you...be a true American a privledged American and get out and VOTE!!!!!!!!

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Steve St. Germain St. Helens, OR — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 18:12:55 GMT

The GOV seems to take the immigration from the middle east quite seriously. So, what the heck is going on with our Canadian and Mexican borders?. We had one would be LAX bomber caught trying to cross over from Canada, and as 911 taught us one succesful attack can be devestating. There is also a abundance of tar herroin and cocain along with other things including illegal imigrants crossing over from the south. For a long time now the people of the U.S.A. have been complaining, and demanding action. Just what have we got for it?... We the people need to come togeather and kick the dead-beat corporate puppets out of our GOV. Untill we do, what we have today will be the same tomarrow , next week, next year ect... .

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

M J Atlanta,Ga. — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 18:25:24 GMT

If all we want from Iraq is oil, why don't we have it? Because our troops are fighting for these people to live. I'm proud of our troops and the job thay do! I'm proud to be an American. For you weak minded cry babies, blame yourself for what you are in. The government can't help those who will not help themselves.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Noname, why,az — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 18:43:11 GMT

In response to B. Landon, Roanoke, VA, where he said...

She knew the first day the US invaded Iraq that getting terrorist wasn't the goal. She said the US wants our oil.

She also said the people involved in oil would become very wealthy.

Those people happen to be OUR GOV'T.

B. Landon, Roanoke, VA (Sent Monday, June 02, 2008 5:27 PM)

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

B. Honest, Portland OR — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 18:45:50 GMT

While I am very pleased that this family has been, Finally, Able to come here to our Nation after we destroyed theirs. The bittersweet ending, with the mother so desperately ill, makes me wonder why the Parents were not also brought out of the Nation, they may well be attacked as a reprisal for the rest of the family being safe.
Frankly, those that created this situation, this entire Administration, the Previous Republican Majorities in Both the House and Senate, and all of the Oil and other Contractors need to be held accountable. Any contractor that cannot show reciepts for where the money went, or at the very least be able to show a chain of events on where the money went, should be held on Charges of War Profiteering and Treason against the US for Doing so. The entire Bush Administration, and the Major Republican Players in the Congress that Blocked all reasonable oversight of the Administration and the War need to ALL be brought up on charges of Treason against the Constitution of the United States. Their CHOICE to engage the US in a War that was Not Condoned by the United Nations, and had Nothing to do with Terrorism OR WMD and has cost this nation Hundreds of Billions of dollars, nearly three quarters of a Trillion Dollars have already been misspent on this tragic Fiasco! Those who have profited need to be stripped of their ill gotten gains and forever be disallowed to ever have or work for any governmental contract for the rest of their lives.

I would advocate the sending of the worst of the Bush Administration to the World Court, a body that we have held ourselve out of because out feeling that the US is superior and should not be held to international standards.
Republican Leadership is scared to be subject to international law, knowing that their actions amount to the international standards for War Crimes.

For the people like Mohammad and his family, and the millions of displaced Iraqis, the Hundreds of thousands, maybe millions dead, the estimated one million widows and for all of our own dead and wounded and all of the shattered lives here in the US, this would be the Very Least that the next Administration Should Do!!

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Terry,Kansas City Missouri — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 19:23:15 GMT

God Bless this man and his family. We should all learn a little tolerance--not all Iraqi's are bad--most just want to get out of their deplorable situation and here in America--they might have a chance. This is not to say that we don't have crazy people over here but let's hope that we will welcome this man and his family that so BRAVELY put their lives on the line for the good ole USA! Peace be to you and yours. Be kind America and let's welcome these folks with open arms. Enough with the racism and hatred----WE ARE ALL OF GOD'S CHILDREN!

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Army Medic, Iraq — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 19:41:18 GMT

There are many people here in Iraq that work for the Americans. Many work for the insurgents at the same time. It is hard sometimes to distinguish who is who. Often when on missions you see Iraqi police signal there friends with flashing lights so they know to blow us up and often linguists give insurgents info. Of course the United States is going to help because people like you all back home demand it. So please Americans don't change or our government will go to shit. It is you that control the government not the other way around. I will continue to fight to free Iraq and you all continue to argue, write, patition ect. Thank God I'm an American. And thankgod we are finaly starting to help Iraq. I wish we could go to Sudan next. I would reup for that.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Sillah, Musa M. Monrovia, Liberia — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 20:30:29 GMT

Hay, mohammed I wish you all the best while you are living in the US.There are many refugees around the world who have applied for asylem to travel to the states but failed,you are a lucky person any way,I just feel so sorry for Iraq because all the good brains the country needs for recontruction are going away.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Melissa, Sacramento CA — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 20:32:04 GMT

Oh yes Tom Thumb. I'm just patiently waiting for that cheap oil. Give me a break you putz. So when are we going to steal it? Hmmm, maybe it wasn't about getting the oil after all. I wish the Al-Kharki family good luck here in the melting pot.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Douglas Kolstoe, Redmond, Washington — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 20:43:12 GMT

As an Training Assistance Team Leader in Iraq, I wrote simular letters for some of the translators who supported my team. They faced death every day for working with the Coalition and making it possible for us to do our job. Their efforts in the face of such danger shows a lot more support of the Coalition than some of our US citizens who sit in their comfortable homes and complain about about these men and women immigrating to the US. Almost all of the 16 interpreters with my team had university degrees and several had advanced degrees. The determination it takes to get an education Iraq and to continue to work for the Coalition under death threats is what it takes to succeed anywhere. As for them being immigrants, anyone who is not a full blooded Native American is from an immigrant family at some point in time. And these new immigrants have already done more for our country than most of our citizens ever do. I am continuing to support the efforts of the translators who worked for me in Iraq and I cheer on the efforts of others to bring deserving Iraqis to the US.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Cole — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 20:43:25 GMT

These people knew the risks of working with us. they did it to better their own country. Nobody protected the founding fathers of this nation when they put their necks on the line against the British. If we had lost that war they all would have been hanged by the neck til they be dead. Its a sad state of this country that we have forgotten what it means to have enough dedication to ones own cause that they would be willing to put their life on the line. The Iraqi government and people should be protecting these heros, it is THEIR OWN NATION. The heros themselves shoudl want to stay in Iraq and finish what they started, they should work with the government and travel with escorts and strike down with extreme predjudice anyone who attempts to harm them. The Iraqi people have been handed this opportunity to govern themselves but are unwilling to put up with the sacrifices that it will require for them to keep their governement. they would rather attack eachother and pretend that their Holy book suggests that it is Ok to kill their own and others in the name of Alah.

The United States is not evil for doing what we did. Our intentions as a nation were good even if our president was stupid. The road to hell may in fact be paved with good intentions, but it is certain that those traveling upon it are the ones who murder and kidnap those seeking freedom for their families without the tyranny of a dictator looming over them.

Are American's aware that this nation was in a state of Chaos following the American Revolution? Are you aware that twice this nation had to create a new government to replace the old? During that time there was much opportunity for violence, infighting and further revolution. It is up to the people of the nation to decide for themselves that it is better to act in the common interest than to force ones individual views on the majority.

Freedom for Iraq can only be gauranteed by the Strong cultural and spiritual people who inhabit that nation. They must stand up to their own people and say this is enough, and that if those people want to enact their form of rule within the nation they need ONLY put forth candidates and vote for them. if they are the majority, they WILL prevail and take over the government peacefully and democratically.

Liberty is the basic right of all people, not just white people in the united states and Europe. All nations and all peoples deserve the right to be free. All you who suggest that those people were fi ne living in that despotic regime are racists, c ulturists and ethnocentrics.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Sillah, Musa M. Monrovia, Liberia — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 21:15:44 GMT

Hay, Mohammed I wish you all the best while you are living in the US.There are many refugees around the world who have applied for asylem to travel to the states but failed,you are a lucky person any way,I just feel so sorry for Iraq because all the good brains the country needs for recontruction are going away.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

BUZZ KIRKLAND WA — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 22:45:11 GMT

Don't any of you bleedin' heart left wing doves out there remember what a tyrant, barbarian, dictator
Sadam was for OVER 30 years to the people of his country?!?! How soon you forget. In just a little over 5 yrs has it taken our great nation to set Iraq on the right path to freedom. Even with all the mistakes we have made, the Iraqi people are showing that they truly want freedom. Good luck to them and
GOD BLESS AMERICA!

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Mary, Frankfurt, Germany — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 00:02:09 GMT

When you consider that other "coalition forces" have left, or are leaving Iraq and offering to take all of the translators that aided them, the US looks pathetic. Look at Denmark! They were only in Iraq for a fraction of the war, and yet they offered every translator that worked for them, worked even one day, to leave with them with total relocation and resettlement in Denmark. And Australia is following that path.

America isn't even making a passing grade here... I wonder how difficult it is for Saudis to get visa to the US...

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Fatima Lupo Mechanicsville, PA — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 00:27:46 GMT

Hopefully, Iraqi, as well as, US citizens, remember the blissful lifestyle led by Iraqi families prior to Desert Storm. Interestingly, America's fine reputation among the international communities have not deterred the worlds people from vying for United States: sanctuary, education, work, green cards, extended visas and lest we forget,citizenship.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Berry — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 01:22:22 GMT

Yes indeed many countries paying thru the nose and have to many problems with these people like in Holland. You take them in because that's what your heart told you to do,than soon after they trying to tell you how you have to live and stir up lots of trouble,no it's better for them and us to stay were they are.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

jordan, illinois — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 01:46:03 GMT

see people --- the problem with helping refugees into this country is that they need to be interviewed time and time again for months to ensure if they can believe if we have a terrorist threat coming into our country. even more so, we dont have room for an instant million refugees from the middle east to come live in america. however the government does seem like they're trying to help, along with a HUGE help from very rich bright people in our country. BUT, in some circumstances, the government does very harshly turn down refugees from entering our country. its very sad to see the refugees suffer, but it is also very important to protect our homeland AND our national security

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Chris, St.Louis,Mo — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 02:15:19 GMT

If people think it was good in Iraq under saddom you better read the news stories again.You cried at 911 because it happened then you complain when it's time for us to fight them on their own territory wise up if we were'nt over their.Fighting terrisom then they'd be here fighting us be thankful that we don't have sucide bombers over here blowing things up left and right.As for the refugee's trying to come in maybe it's time for them to see a true democracy at work and they are assisting our troops and other American aganecies because they want peace and properity.If we turn them away after there sacrifice you only breed more resentment towards America and her citizens.I say we reward them for their bravery just as we reward our troops for their heroism.After all alot of them risk their families to assit in the effort.And don't forget without immigrants coming here many generations of Americans would never be here.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Steve — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 02:43:50 GMT

I'm trying to figure out how this man is coming to the USA for a job? According to people like Hilliary Clinton or Barack Obama (who care more about your vote than they do about you) all of the jobs are going to China and Mexico.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

iman — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 03:00:29 GMT

welcome to the u.s yes welcome to the land of opportuinty please this country needs more wellfare
reciepents.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Michael — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 03:29:21 GMT

Im certainly glad that some people get the help they need,but we should all keep in mind this is an example of how much "better" off the Iraqis are since we came.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Mark D, Dallas, TX — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 03:55:11 GMT

People need to quit assuming we are in Iraq for the oil. We are busy selling our offshore drilling rights in the Gulf of Mexico to India and China, and people think we are in Iraq for the oil reserves?

Don't forget that the visa process is lengthy because background checks are hard work when investigating someone from overseas, especially in countries labeled as terrorist states. I agree that the process could and should be streamlined, but what aspect of government couldn't do with that?

Welcome to the US, though. I pray you have a prosperous and blessed life here with your family.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Eddie, Matthews, NC — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 04:02:01 GMT

All you Bush haters on here..be prepared to learn another language if it goes how you want it to go. God bless this family who was able to leave by their will and really...I think I would have stayed with my family memebers still there. Things will get better unless a democratic president is voted in. Then we all will need to be prepared for an eye opening 4 years!

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Moira, Alexandria, VA — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 04:52:28 GMT

Remember Vietnam? Korea? How many did we leave there who had helped the Americans? We are not the first country to behave like this, nor is it the first time in our history. One does wonder what the State Department is doing to facilitate matters.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Charles Stroud, Fort Bliss, Texas — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 05:11:04 GMT

I am an US Army soldier and can attest to the bravery of these Iraqis. Having recently served a 14 month tour in Ninevah Province, I saw firsthand the dangers these brave Patriots face, and it breaks my heart to know more is not being done to protect them. I can personally attest to the lives of US servicemen and women being saved because of their willingness to work with coalition forces. Politics, relgion, and nationality aside, these people deserve the chance at the American dream and a better life for their children. Many have been promised this chance as a reward for working with us, only to be kept in life-threatening limbo with no hope. This a disgrace on America and does not represent the nation for which I fight.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Brad O'Neill — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 05:15:53 GMT

The True victory will be when Mohammed can return home and visit his family without fear. Americans are giving their lives so men like Mohammed can live in peace. This war will be won by American soldiers working with the good people of Iraq to ensure a democracy that looks out for the best interest of Iraqis is firmly in place. Welcome to America Mohammed I wish you and your family the best of luck this is a great country with boundless opportunity. Any man brave enough to confront the Mahdi army has nothing to fear from New York but if it was me I would relocate to a smaller town.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Denis Logan, Palm Coast, FL. — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 11:07:03 GMT

The dangers he talks about don't make any sense. Didn't we all see John McCain on TV walking down the streets of Baghdad, telling us how safe it was there now?? I mean Sen. McCain is a war hero, he wouldn't lie to us would he? Would he???

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Rhanes, Denver, Colorado — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 12:08:00 GMT

Some of you people are beyond ignorant. There have been Arab terrorists from all over the middle east and you think that it is our responsibility to just let them in for helping us in Iraq? Every terroist that attacked this country had alterior motives.. A few of them wanted to be pilots if I remember correctly.
Why do we keep saying there was no WMD in Iraq? If that were the case there would still be a million kurds on the face of this planet. Just because he didn't leave it so we could find it, doesn't mean he didn't have it. Where there is smoke, there is fire.
Finally. People keep talking about Iraq as a land grab for oil... where the hell does this come from? Haven't any of you noticed the price of oil these days? We're still giving Iraqis billions of dollars in aid and they are keeping their own oil. What we did in Iraq was just and humane. To be sure, Sadaam isn't the only dictator that needs to be removed from power, but it did serve notice to others that we may not be there yet, but don't think that we wont come knocking on your door too. Our service men and women have done a noble job by helping to remove a ruthless dictator and given them a say in there future. Given women the right to go to school and create some semplence of equality. You fricken hypocritical leftists. More worried about saving an endangered jumping mouse than saving your own race! The Greater Good is NEVER your motive, it's always about you! I served my country and was willing to give my life for it. What have you people done? You keep Blacks in poverty so that they vote for you. You all illegal immigrants to cross our borders so that they can ruin our economy.
This man deserved to be in our country, even if what he did was strictly out of self preservation. At least he did something which is more than I can say for the majority of you left wing hypocrits.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Chuck V.L., Appleton, WI. — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 12:47:24 GMT

Great story....This should be front page to show everyone how imigration rally works! Not sneaking in under darkness or in the back of a truck. One thing bothers me though....How can this reporter give so much info about Muhammad's family like number of kids AND their ages and not think someone will use that to ID him later and do harm to them all in the name of Allah! Just a thought....

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

jon — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 13:10:43 GMT

Good story? What! How about another story about a soldier dying. That is a good story. Ask Bushy..that pathetic piece of crap. I don't know how you bloggers feel but I don't want to see any Iraqi people coming to America. I will never treat them the same. And you can blame Bush for that. He told the WORLD that they hate christians. And I believe in God, not Allah. So if they want to change their religion maybe they can survive in our homeland. Just telling it like it is for millions of americans.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

USA — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 13:16:19 GMT

WHAT?!?!! NO! This is 12,000 people who should be in THEIR country fighting for THEIR freedom!!

WHAT THE HELL IS MY SON DOING THERE RISKING HIS LIFE FOR THEIR FREEDOM WHILE THEY ARE HERE ENJOYING HIS???

"As of May 1, the United States has resettled 3,601 Iraqis so far this year, with a goal of resettling 12,000 by the end of the 2008 fiscal year."

"Now Mohammed is torn from his family and homeland, "

"That my country refuses entrance to people who've risked their lives to help us is deeply embarrassing to me"

Put a uniform on and GO RISK YOUR LIVES FOR YOUR FREEDOM!

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Everywhere, USA — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 13:23:17 GMT

"Now Mohammed is torn from his family and homeland,"

Are you KIDDING ME?!?!?! He wasn't TORN from anything, HE DESERTED HIS COUNTRY IN IT'S TIME OF NEED AND NOW OUR CITIZENS ARE PAYING FOR HIS FREEDOM WITH THEIR BLOOD!!!!!!

"One can only wish Mr. Al-Kharki a good life in the U.S."

No! I can wish him and every other able bodied Iraqi INTO a uniform and INTO his country - Go back and FIGHT FOR YOUR OWN FREEDOM.

As we like to say in this country FREEDOM ISN'T FREE and it's NEVER going to get better until the CITIZENS ARE WILLING TO RISK THEIR OWN SKIN INSTEAD OF THE BLOOD OF OUR SOLDIERS!!!

GET YOUR ARSE BACK THERE AND FIGHT FOR THE FREEDOM OF YOUR COUNTRY!!!!

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Jonathan Doghnut — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 13:39:12 GMT

Hey, I know!!! How about the US invades Mexico, destroys the country and then maybe Homeland security could do the same for some Mexican families. That would be countless of hundreds of billions of dollars well spent, just like in Iraq, wow! Go US, you really know what you're doing. Please, please teach the rest of us to be like you, come on everybody, lets sing together . .. . . . . . . . . .

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Shelly Bedsaul, Topeka, KS — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 14:06:28 GMT

Political judgements and suspicions aside, I can't help but think how lucky we are in this country. I'm pretty confident that I can go buy a loaf of bread without facing bombs and bullets. If faced with the same conditions and choices, seeing fear in the eyes of my children, what would I do to insure the safety of my family?

In the 70's, I worked with a few of the Vietnamese "boat people". This was not a glamorous job and way below their education level. Their education did not count in this country. They faced low wage jobs and prejudices from us, but this was preferable to the certain death they would face as ex-US allies.

The United States is my home. I love it. I can't think of any place I'd rather live, in spite of our perceived flaws. In the best of all fantasy worlds, I'd like to think I'd defend it to the last. But this is something that we've really not been tested on, is it? The majority of us have the luxury of time to pass judgements on individuals that just wish to survive.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Ms Rogers, Houston — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 14:27:24 GMT

Do not equate iraqies that assisted and earn gratitude to mexican's that sneak in across a border illegally and thnik they have a right, they dont. Men like Abdul-Latif Al-Kharki and family, paid dearly for their right to asylum. Mexicans that sneak ILLEGALLY across have not. Ihope Muhammed and his family prosper adn one day they get to see their families.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

TJ Rogers — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 14:27:50 GMT

We still deal with Khadafi of Libya, why could we not have learned how to deal with Saddam?
Diplomacy, and a few bombing raids made Khadafi realize he'd better work with the world, instead of against it.
That is all it would have taken to get Saddam to do like wise.
Instead, with him gone, all of Iraq is falling into chaos. Bad man that he was, we still could have worked with Saddam. And he did hold Iraq together. Well, seems we blew it.
Serbia is another example. We did not have to invade and occupy that nation. But change has taken place.
Hope we don't repeat this mistake again with Iran, or any other country that does not see eye to eye with us. North Korea is coming around. Diplomacy works, and if need be, a few bombing raids will usually soften an errant dictators ways.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

jack doyle — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 14:33:00 GMT

It is a lot cheaper to bring a million Iraqis to the US than to keep 150,000 troops over there for six years.But is certainly is time to get out and now!
If the Iraqis cannot control their country with 29 million people then it can never be within ouir ability.
Further we are surrounded by one billiion or more of them, they all look alike and no American can tell what the enemy looks like and they all hate us(except those we pay handsomely)Finall what will victory look like if it ever comes?

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Laura, Wichita, Kansas — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 15:18:08 GMT

I think he should come to the U.S. and join Barack Obama's campaign and publicly speak of the REASONS to get out of the war now. Seems his story is only one of hundreds of thousands. Wow, not only did Bush destroy the American reputation, American people, jobs, economy, but he also did the same for Iraq. What a talent for destruction. He should be in jail.

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

Paul, Ohio — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 15:29:56 GMT

I can't stand how everyone takes this story as an opportunity to moan and groan about the Bush administration and how we should not be in Iraq. Read between the lines - his neighboring country, Syria- wouldn't let him do anything but manual labor. How compassionate of his Arab brothers to keep him down. When he comes to America - the greatest country in the world- he will be allowed to exercise his full capabilities and live a life where his success blossoms at some level. So you feel bad for the Iraqi people because of the bloodshed? Things such as freedom, that are so valuable, come at a cost. We live in a country that struggled against the British for freedom, and then against one another to end slavery. Many people died then, but none of us were there to witness the carnage. I'm sure it was horrible on the surface, but the goals behind those wars are evident in our everyday lives now. But all of us appreciate the freedoms we have now while forgetting the sacrifices of our ancestors. And so to will the Iraqis. Rome wasn't built in a day, neither was America, nor will Iraq be. Quit your crying, like your lives are so difficult, and ask Mohammed al-Kharki how he feels about taking the road less traveled. Its cliche, but "freedom ain't free".

Goodbye, Baghdad; hello, America

P Morris — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 15:33:04 GMT

I have read most of the responses, wow, I am not surprised. First of all, where are the oil revenues we have received? It wasn't about the oil! I guess no remembers 100k dead from nerve agent testing by Sadam. Get over it people. With liberal media coverage of 100% negitive, it is easily understood. It is pretty clear that your bloggers, dont read, they just watch TV.