The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Fee, Arizona — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 13:21:00 GMT

Sensationalism?? A few bad apples?? Sounds like a tough job for anyone, but improvements can always be made. What about finding ways to fix the problems and moving on? This is a difficult situation and needs to be addressed system wide.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Roger Perkins, Salt Lake City, UT — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 13:22:49 GMT

Abu Ghrabe wasn't an 'incident'. It was a half dozen troops without supervision who got out of control and were punished. The shooting inciden by Blackwater may or may not be the same thing but, until I see all the facts, I'm not jumping to conclusions because some media hack tells me something is so. They have a bias and a vested interest in controversy for promoting their business. Far too much confidence is put into media reporting than is justified by the results.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Davies Burton, Bronx, NY — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 13:30:59 GMT

I have long imagined that the tatooed, gung-ho, "all-American" types who sign up for this cowboy type of work are big NRA-supporting sociopaths, largely from the south, who - like George W. - believe they are the hottest thing since sliced bread and are out for the big paychecks, regardless of who needs to die or be beaten senseless for their amusement. It's like hunting season back home for them. What a shame.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Dave K., Seattle WA — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 13:36:35 GMT

The Iraqi puppet government is so weak it has no control over U.S. serial killers on its own soil. We complain when Iran causes casualties to our soldiers, but when our mercenary forces callously kill innocent Iraqi civilians, including infants, Americans shrug it off. Clearly Americans have determined that the life of an Iraqi is worth less than a life of a New Yorker, that's why we made them our human shields in the fight against al-Qaida.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Kyle, San Anotnio TX — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 13:43:22 GMT

It is my understanding that the incident that initiated the action taken by Blackwater was the detonation of a White Phosphorous (WP) IED aimed at the convoy. Small arms fire was then directed at the convoy. Fire was returned by Blackwater at the vicinity of the incoming fire, which came from a crowd of people. One of the favorite tactics of the insurgency is the moving suicide car bomb driven into a convoy. This statement being made, the family in the car that was killed - If the ambush was initiated, small arms fire was taken and this families car drove within the "red zone" of protection of the convoy, then (and I hate to say it) the family, whose loss was tragic, needs to understand that if they had just stopped, this wouldnt have happened. But we cant take that back now can we.

I'm wondering how many of these people killed in the incident were killed by the WP explosion - those things are nasty nasty. They never stop burning. How many autopsies were performed to see if a 5.56mm or a 7.62mm was the ammo that killed the people? Its all the difference in the world as Blackwater uses 5.56mm and "Ali Baba" uses 7.62mm. Its another favorite tactic of the insurgents to fire at Americans, run into a house, kill the family in an effort to make it look like the Americans did it.

But with Muslim burial routine(that Ive witnessed and not being an expert on Muslim culture), most families do not allow an autopsy and the body is buried within 24-48 hours of death.

I'm no fan of Blackwater, I'm absolutely neutral about them. What I cannot stand though is the vilianization of anything that is American just because someone got killed. Do we actually know that Blackwater did these killings? It wouldnt surprise me at all to find that half of those folks were killed by the insurgents WP explosion, some were killed by the insurgents themselves (they have horrible fire discipline called the "spray and pray they hit something") and I will not disallow the fact that Blackwater may have accounted for a few of the deaths. But I know how these guys at Blackwater are trained. They practice a fire method called "double tap" where you must first identify the target as a threat, then you deliver two shots - one to the chest, one to the head. There isnt this constant string of fire. Constant fire is counter productive. You run out of ammo REAL fast and you rarely hit anything youre aiming at after the third round is fired.

I need to wrap this up I just think that without an autopsy to determine what/who killed these 11 people, that the unsubstantiated baloney about the mad dog tactics of the security contractors need to stop. Other factors that maybe considered when talking about the contractors is: Have they lost any of their charges (people they protect) to the insurgents? IF not,then they are effective and need to be kept in place, if they have - then lets see how and why they failed to protect and re-evaluate their contracts.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Jeff Hogan, Fort Worth, Texas — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 13:53:39 GMT

Why do gun-toting sociopaths have to be from the south or like George W.?? And what does hunting have to do with murder?
Anyways, if you believe what you're told by the news media, the very best that can happen is that you're woefully underinformed. I long for the days when 'Independently Verifiable' meant something.

And while I lean towards liberal viewpoints on alot of things, being liberal doesn't mean spouting a lot of crap with little or no actual data to back it up, so cut it out.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

John Doe, Seattle Wash — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 13:57:14 GMT

In my exposure to them, the BW folks are trained professionals, held to a State Department training standard, and none of them seem to be the cowboy type. And if having a tattoo is a job descriptor, why aren't many folks in their late teens and early 20's deployed? Oh yeah, they are too busy protesting and getting another piercing.

And since BW seems to be the biggest PSD there, other PSDs may do things for which BW is blamed, since Blackwater has become the genreric term for any Western-appearing PSD team in Iraq.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Sam Khoury — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 14:03:51 GMT

I am supprised at this. that until now they did not relize that Black water is doing a lot bad things in Iraq. I happened to watch a video on You tube about Black water agent spray shooting indiscrimntley at Iraq's car as they are driving in the street. People were being killed and injured and to add insult to injury they were laughig about the whole thing.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Daniel Schlafer, Byron, Georgia — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 14:04:55 GMT

Let us examine the difference in pay for these "contractors" ? Do non-officers earn anything near it ? Do most officers earn anything near it ? The "cowboys" in this conversation is the Bush Administration. When you do not even bother building a coalition of nations to invade Iraq, see what happens ? Now we have State and Defense "duking" it out to accept blame ?

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Jerry, Sacramento, California — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 14:11:15 GMT

In its zeal to privatize our military - the Pentagon has expended its use of contracted mercenaries like Blackwater. It is the Pentagon who gived these hired killers free-acces to the streets of an occupied land with little or no oversight. This is a concious decision meant to allow them to deflect responsibility for the deaths of thousands of innocent people. Blackwater is a for-profit killing machine meant to instill fear and chaos and diversion in Iraq while the Iraqis' oil resources are being shipped out the backdoor. I am ashamed of our country to allow this atrocity to continue.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Lita, Phoenix, AZ — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 14:21:28 GMT

Why are there so many blackwater troops in Iraq? There are more of their troops than our military. If they are their only to protect our embassy employees, why so many? What does it do to our military's morale to have them paid so much more? Why are blackwater troops training on US soil all over our country? Are they preparing for round up of US citizens under pretense of bird flu? I'd like Congress to find out the answers to these troubling questions.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Terry, Disabled Vet, Des Moines, IA — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 14:22:35 GMT

Blackwater = WAR PROFITEERING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Travis, Lafayette IN — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 14:25:59 GMT

Kyle, you seem to know a lot about Blackwater...Employee?...Former Employee?

The facts here are that our own US Military officials are denouncing Blackwater in a way that has never been seen before. They are not denouncing ALL Defense Contractors, just Blackwater.

As a company, they have been paid nearly a BILLION DOLLARS since 2004. They have amnesty in any action they take due to the sweet little deal that their buddies in the White House arranged for them back in 2003.

If their intentions are legitimate, and they are truly trying to help the "war" effort, then they should be more than willing to operate with the same rules of engagement as our own brave US Military Forces! If a US Serviceman were in this same position, he would be ridiculed publicly and tried in a military courtroom.

This debacle is showing it's teeth right now. Greed cannot see the color red. Blood will continue to spill as long as we allow these mercenary companies to earn BILLIONS of dollars as we secure our "Interests" in the region.

And in response to Fee;

Abu Ghraib was not "half dozen troops without supervision". It was a half dozen troops with supervision from the highest of levels, the Secretary of Defense. Have you not seen the memo signed by the devil himself, The Doninator, Donald Rumsfeld? Those half dozen troops were encouraged to do what they did, and ended up becoming the monster that lives within their boss!

Everything, all of this, the whole deal, is all about the almighty (well, maybe not almighty anymore, Thanks Dubya) Do$$ar!

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Jim, in the Mississippi Delta — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 14:28:00 GMT

Blackwater has carte blanche to do as it pleases in Iraq with zero accountability to either the U.S. or Iraq governments. And the pay is great. Nice work if you can get it.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Chris Harris, Fayetteville, AR — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 14:33:29 GMT

" Abu Ghrabe wasn't an 'incident'. It was a half dozen troops without supervision who got out of control and were punished. "

I'm sorry, but you are completely incorrect. Extensive photographic, video, documentary, and eye-witness accounts clearly indicate that the soldiers at abu Ghraib were under supervision and were acting under orders, carrying out exactly the same sort of actions that soldiers acting on orders performed in other parts of the world. I know it's hard for some people to accept that our country deliberately did this, but the sooner people wrap their brain around the facts, the sooner we can fix the problem.

"the unsubstantiated baloney about the mad dog tactics of the security contractors need to stop."

Blackwater's negative impact in Iraq is very well substantiated, including video. One of the few things that everyone in Iraq agrees on, from US military to Iraqi civilians to Iraqi insurgents, is that these guys are a part of the problem. While they are not the biggest problem we have in that country, they are definitely a problem and a negative for us. The sad thing is that our military has been so hobbled by privatization and out-sourcing that it is impossible to remove these unaccountable mercenaries from the situation.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Trevor, Ft. Campbell, KY — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 14:34:53 GMT

Once again the media jumps to conclusions and begins a campaign of hesteria. Now MSNBC is printing that Blackwater did shoot 12 civilians. The words alleged or reported are not even used. The media has its biased views and the will only report the facts that support their views. What is their suggestion to deal with suicide car bombers? I haven't heard of one. Why don't they report that the terrorist will attack from within a group of civilians- an established fact. My god, if water bottles are excessive, what do they want used, nerf footballs. The state dept. PSD details are the most monitored details in the whole country. Give me and those brave contractors (mostly former soldiers and still very patriotic) a break and establish the facts before making wild accusations. TZerrible reporting has hurt our war efforts more than Abu Gharib!... and thanks Kyle for your reasonable comments.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

James Hall. Liberty. NY — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 14:37:19 GMT

I have seen pictures of Blackwater in Iraq and they act like colonial overlords who must control the'Natives'.It was this way in the days of the British Empire.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

RND — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 14:37:25 GMT

We have Blackwater because the US govt. is too fearful to reinstate the draft. They think they can hire a civillian army but all they get are the mercenary crazies that are attracted to that work.

We cannot win real wars with technology.
We must have a very large army. We are loosing in Iraq because there aren't nearly enough soldiers! Had we a million men in Iraq in the first few months after the fall of Bagdad, it would be long over now.
All we are doing is showing crazies like Amadinijad that we are too soft from the good life to fight for long or in real numbers.
The answers are ones no politician wants. We need to re-institute the draft. We need to make military service a universal requirement for all able young men and women. We need to have political parties that are more concerned with the needs of the nation than with how to sieze power. Clearly our whole Iraq experience is a glass held up to show us how far the US has strayed from that magnificent generation that fought and WON WWII.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Jay White, Clark Fork, Idaho — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 14:42:20 GMT

Black water has a black eye because someone let the cat out of the bag that they are not accountable to any form of control. (except their own.) They are reportedly operating without consequence to bad behavior and they are capable of damaging families in the U.S. by getting their sons killed. The media reports lack of training and lack of armor as well as lack of discipline. Hmm, any Black water bubbas want to step up to the plate and talk intelligently or do we just get the public relations dump about "our condolences to the families and the incident is under investigation blah blah blah?

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Leo T K, Hicksville NY — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 14:43:31 GMT

... What I cannot stand though is the vilianization of anything that is American...

Any half-wit can see that The Main Stream Media in AMERICA has graduated from "The Fourth Estate" to "The Fifth Column".

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Bob, Washington DC — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 14:43:50 GMT

Kyle of San Anotnio [sic] starts off with "It is my understanding..." and then repeats verbatim the lies Blackwater killers told to cover up their war crimes. Get this through your thick skull: Blackwater is lying, just like your Texas (born in connecticut) buddy President has been lying ever since he started this illegal war. Blackwater killers should be turned over to the Iraqis and hung from the same scaffold they hung Saddam from.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Dan, Grand Rapids MI — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 14:45:51 GMT

To go along with Kyle, a lot of the Blackwater guys are former SOF guys. They are highly trained by the army, and highly disciplined in their fire. However, not all have the same training and discipline, so I wouldn't be surprised if some of the guys did hit some civilians.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Johnson Ward, Marion, TX — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 14:46:12 GMT

RE: Dave and Davies
Thanks! You really give us gun-toting, tobbacco-chewing Southern Rednecks a reason to stay that way.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Carmen Colorado — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 14:47:52 GMT

Bush is a moron and now there is MORE OIL to get so here we go again, he is like a little kid that has to have everything he wants and nobody ever put a stop to his childness. Even my grandaughter knows better and she is only 2.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Sherrie B., US Patriot — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 14:50:56 GMT

I urge everyone to read "Blackwater USA" by Jeremy Scahill. It's a very thoroughly researched account of how Blackwater has operated over the past several years in Iraq, Afghanistan, and the US. This is not some isolated incident, but part of a continuing, very disturbing pattern. Kyle, with all due respect, you don't have a grasp on the facts of what happened when Blackwater killed the eleven a few days ago. You sound like a PR person for Blackwater.
anyway, read more folks, lots, lots, more...

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Willie Callison, Paris, France — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 14:55:25 GMT

You MUST always hire locally. Get the local leaders to kick in their own followers for US security. You'll need to have a secrecy screen in front of them, so they don't leak logistical details, but it also brings the local militias into the process of creating the new order, rather than giving them targets to attack without a guilty conscience. Hire Muslim locals -- PERIOD

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

John Cannon, LA,CA — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 14:58:12 GMT

Typical.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Kevin Morrissey, Newcastle Oklahoma — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 15:04:24 GMT

The guy from the Bronx above gives new meanng to the word bigot.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Szrechna Yanukovicz — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 15:05:50 GMT

I think this Davies Burton guy is just another New York Schmuck that buys into everything he sees or listens to on TV. Get the facts straight before you start hammering people. By the way, TX is not apart of the South nor is George Bush.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Cam, Yakima, WA. — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 15:13:13 GMT

This is clearly mismanagement of government assets in my opinion. I agree with military commanders that PSD units disrupt the battlefield scenario more than anything else. The State Dept. DOES move around that country like they're the "untouchables" and Military authority is clearly ignored, making some situations and operations difficult to conduct. Communication is the key here people, the State Dept. and the military forces operating in any area need to have a clear understanding of the bounds of authority. I agree that the aftermath of any confrontation is left to the military to clean up but this will continue until the Iraqi police get up and running on a consistant basis. Blackwater and all of the other firms need to realize this, and be more cognizant of their actions.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Albert, Seattle, WA — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 15:15:36 GMT

Everyone knows that there are more contractors in Iraq than US soldiers right? US Soldiers are at about 160,000 and the contractors are at 180,000. US military has Rules of Engagement and strict oversight. Contractors have neither. When a US soldier commits a crime or makes a mistake, they get the full weight of the government coming down on their heads. Contractors get a plane ticket home and a call from Ken Star to the Iraq prime minister convincing him it wasn't so bad. Lindsey England and several others were charged and convicted of wrong doing in Iraq, not a single contractor has been charged or convicted of ANYTHING.

So tell me, why would the contractors be saints when there are no rules, no accountability AND they know that WE need THEM in order to have even the slightest chance of success in that country? But why in the world would the Iraqi's trust a word that comes out of our diplomat's mouths when a troop of Blackwater mercenaries are standing there waiting for someone to make a wrong move? Why should they trust us when we are encouraging this sort of "Free Market Forces" to run rampant in THEIR country at THEIR expense?

War should never be privatized. Face it. If it were up to Blackwater then the war would never end because they are making a killing (pun intended). What incentive do any of them have to help the situation instead of make it worse? We might as well just shoot ourselves in the foot right now.

This war, for them, is about making money. The more sectarian violence there is, the more job security Blackwater has. I'm all for capitalism when it comes to consumer products and such, but this is a perfect example of how capitalism can be the perfect poison in these kinds of circumstances.

At least put some kind of rules on these guys and actually convict the individuals who break them. I'm sure they'll complain to Bush himself, but I say too d*mn bad.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

dave luttz — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 15:17:34 GMT

"Ali Baba" ? It is the ignorant mentality like this that has put us in the situations we now face in our world.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

ashamed republican — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 15:17:54 GMT

Bush, Cheney, Rumsfled, Wolfowitz....abu ghraib now blackwater and we call them "evil"?
We will never forget our 9-11 dead. However we would expect them to forget hundreds of thousands dead, injured, displaced, humiliated and get in line to act like "good slaves" while we steal their resources?
I am afraid we will be paying for the indescretions of our not so angelic leaders for years to come. Yet many among us still ask why "they" hate us. They don't....they hate our foreign policies...dhuu.
Desperate people have fewer options but we have many: we can vote our evil out.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Lee, Ft. Bragg NC area — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 15:19:07 GMT

Too many of the Blackwater security contractors are former military who did not have the disciplne to be career soldiers so their wild west outlaw cowboy ways and love of money turned them into mercenaries for the corrupt warmonger Bush Administration, says this 30 year US Army veteran former Paratrooper/Green Beret.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

GLH Pennsylvania — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 15:22:51 GMT

I see a lot of complaining by those who who should know better. If you drive to close to a convoy, you get shot. Sign on the rear vehicle warns you. Some people choose to ignore that warning, and you complain about a bottle to the windshield? When you interview the competing security firms, I'm sure you're going to get an "Unbiased" opinion. Loony-left comments calling the Blackwater Employees names cracks me up. I would love to see Blackwater employed here in the states, starting in NYC, D.C, LA. It would be wonderful watching them take out the garbage.Imagine the suprised faces of gangs, drug dealers, and the rest of the baggy pants crowd. I would gladly pay more taxes to see that.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Brian Smith — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 15:23:35 GMT

NOTHING that happens as result of this rogue administration(Bush)being in charge over there surprises me. After all, when you put loyalty before competence in your hiring practices this is the toxic stew (Iraq) you end up with. What you're seeing is all-out meltdown in Iraq right now as a result of incompetence and lack of leadership, and the inter-administration infighting that results. 'As you sow, so do you reap'
And we could have had Gore!!!( and should have but for the illegal actions of the Right-wing U.S. Supreme Court)

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Andy, Singapore — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 15:27:40 GMT

Should send Singapore Pastors there to spread love to them.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

U R A Disgrace — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 15:30:24 GMT

30 year professional soldier or 30 year looser lifer ?
You are sad...

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

J M — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 15:31:25 GMT

It's "precedes". Their reputation "precedes" them--it goes before them.

A reputation that "proceeded" would go forward FROM their actions, not out ahead of them.

Your posts could benefit from a solid homophone check BEFORE you make them. The dictionary is our friend!

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Dave Williams, Hope Mills, NC — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 15:33:45 GMT

I believe Kyle is right. I spent nearly 18 months in Baghdad as a DOD contractor and can tell you first-hand that the majority of the PSDs in Blackwater, DynCorp, and Triple Canopy are absolute professionals while they are on the job. Remember - Their PRIMARY job is to protect the VIP or Principal, as they call them. However, no matter how good they are, in their line of work there will always be factors that come into play which the PSDs have no control over: location/type of attack, innocent civilians in the ambush, and identification of all enemy combatants are a few I can think of. If PSDs had a crystal ball that could answer these questions for them prior to their departure the PSDs could plan accordingly and no lives would be lost. Of course, we don't live in a fantasy world where this is possible so they do the best they can with the intel, skills, weapons, and equipment they have. Understand this- Battle Space in Iraq and especially in Baghdad, is tenuous at best. It is an ever-fluid, ever-changing environment affected by many elements which, unfortunately, have a negative impact on any mission the Coalition Forces or the PSDs conduct. The phrase "You can't understand unless you've been there" is especially true in Iraq so please, hold your judgment of this incident until all the facts are in.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

john florida — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 15:33:59 GMT

CHRIS HARRIS:
YOU WANT TO TAKE LESS THAT A DOZEN FOOLS LED BY ONE IDIOT AND FROM THAT YOU WANT TO USE TO WORDS "OUR COUNTRY" AS IF THE ENTIRE ARMY IS OUT THERE PULLING THIS SORT OF THING ALL OVER IRAQ: ARE YOU FOR REAL?
AS FOR BLACK WATER WOULD YOU LIKE TO HANG THEM NOW OR WAIT FOR THE JURY?OR WE CAN USE THE MURTHA SYSTEM OF JUSTICE. ACCUSE SOLDIERS OF MURDER IN COLD BLOOD AND WHEN FOUND INNOCENT PRETEND THAT YOU SAID NOTHING. WILL YOU ADMIT YOU WERE WRONG SHOULD THESE PEOPLE BE FOUND INNOCENT OR WILL YOU TAKE YOUR LEAD FROM MURTHA AND PRETEND YOU WERE NOT EVEN IN THE ROOM WHEN THOSE WORDS WERE SPOKEN. WHAT DO YOU SAY WE WAIT FOR THE INVESTIGATION TO BE COMPLETED BEFORE THE EXECUTION IS CARRIED OUT.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Dave N — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 15:36:49 GMT

I Wonder if this Security Firm (blackwater)had anythinng to do with the security(or lack of)the mass resource of weapons and explosives that were stolen while the usa forces were guarding it. This group apppears to be the mafia.Its dealings in weapons and use of deadly force against unarmed civilians, should be the responsibility of the President and Vice President who run this war based on there decisions. If the military itself is perturbed, why are they there?I believe that our president is engaged in criminal activity by allowing such attrocoties to continue. Have we no face to save?Are these the roadside bombers creating an illusion so that we may continue this war of the N.W.O? Terrorism in my book is the excessive force used to kill or maim in war. These banditos are criminals. Birds of a feather.... I really find it hard to believe that the us military was robbed of all these things, all these roadside and suicide bombs have gone off, and no one has made the connection. We are all blided by the selective coverage that the media portrays. This is Blackwaters secret, I would bet! And Sept 16 was not the only incident that this Murder For Hire firm has been involved in. These people are killers and mental forged robots that are Godless and should all be prosecuted. End this War (illusion) , or we all will pay a heavy price (the war on terror will never end), Peace will never be achieved.And the water isn't black, the oil is!

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Mike Johnson,Port Orange,Florida — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 15:38:26 GMT

Well aren't we, the bloggers, all over the place as usual with our "facts". If Blackwater has made a billion dollars since 2004 and they have more people over there than we do(130K) then just do the math. Only a few bucks per person! Gimme a break, use your head for something beside a hat-rack.They(Blackwater) don't have more people over there than troops,because the often quoted numbers include ALL contractors.Support and otherwise,Iraqi and non-Iraqi.
Before people get on here and spew their ideas(or better yet "feelings") that pass for "facts" they should do a little more checking. Those that read their posts without any other knowledge take those posts as "truth".People complain no matter what is done,if we withdrew all contractors and replaced them with troops you'd heard the complaining about that. If we pulled out all together, more complaining,if we don't more complaining.Nothing but a bunch of whiners sitting behind their desks pecking away.Hiding behind the internet.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Jim C., Woodridge, IL — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 15:42:47 GMT

Correct me if I am wrong, but I have always thought that it was the U.S. Marines who have guarded U.S. embassy personnel, which I thought included the State Department. The fact that the U.S. State Department seems to have it's own private army, that does not answer to the U.S. Military, sounds alot like the arrangement in Russia where the Interior Ministry has its own troops independent of the Russian military. Makes me wonder where our country is headed. I don't like what I see happening. We seem to becoming more like our adversaries, even while our leaders continue to decry other nations' shortcomings.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Jeff, BA, California — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 15:42:51 GMT

"TX is not apart of the South nor is George Bush."

Texas is not a part of the South? Somebody needs to look at a map (and study the Civic War if that doesn't convince you). Ditto for George Bush - ex-governor of Texas.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Pet, Boston, MA — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 15:43:03 GMT

It is My understanding that IED exploded a km away from the convoy. In any case, the damage is done. I want to know why the State dsepartment needs mercs? Since when does this country need hired guns? Does this says something about our military, or our leaders? If I was a grunt over there, I would be pissed! Those mercs are getting 100k and the regulars are getting what? 20-30k? Do die for what? That idiot GWB? He screwed the pooch. Got us in and can't get us out. His father knew what a mess it would be. Hell, even brainey Chaney new. Now they just have to drag it on until a new prez is elected so they can dump it and run. They know it's is a loser, like themselves. What I want to know is, they say it takes sacrafice and hard work. Just what are Bush, Chaney and all the rich polaticians sacraficing? I say we need a law that says: if any person in government votes to start a war, they must enlist any person in THIER family, that is of draft age, in the to military and they must serve a combat roll in the engagement. Think we'd be in Iraq right now? It's a no win situation. Either you stay indefinately, and more of our soldiers get killed or, you pull back and guess what, there is a civil war and radicals take over! Just look at the record. Iran? Korea? Get rid of Oil and you get rid of the middle east! We're loosing one way or another. The Arabs are so rich with oil money,they just bought the NASDAQ and Bush 41's Carlisle group.
If our government lets that happen, will we be praying to Alah! They don't have to win any wars. They will just buy everything!

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Zack, OIF Veteran, Mn — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 15:43:27 GMT

Alot of people are going on about the amount of contractors in Iraq compared to the amount of troops. Did anyone stop to think that they are not all PSD's? We had contractors doing everything from cooking the food to cleaning latrines. STOP LISTENING TO THE NEWS. They are biased and words like "fact" ,"truth", and " Whole story" are just fun things to throw into their story, that carry no meaning what so ever to them. Now I'm not saying BW is right or wrong. I wasn't there at the time of the incident and it is my bet that neither was anyone else here on this blog.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Pete Lida — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 15:44:19 GMT

The outrage in the Blackwater situation should not be directed toward the company, but at the completely illegal and anti-constitutional trial, verdict, and public execution perpetrated by the media and other agenda biased entities befdore an investigation even takes place!
I recall that there once was a human rights protocal for investigation of so-called war crimes even in the occupying military, called the Uniform Code of Miltary Justice. These are investigations that must be based on hard evidence and proof.
As a former combat vet and civilian LEO, I can attest to the fact the immutable principle of any such investigation, espeically in the intense covoluted environment of a war zone, is that nothing is ever as it initially appears or seems.
Dont conveniently forget that these are U.S. government subsidized companies doing extremely difficult work in quasi-military functions. And they are American citizens duly afforded all rights therein. These contractors are spuriously accused of doing something wrong, in the performance of their job requirements, while actually on the job.
NOT at some local bar after hours or in the commission of an intentional criminal act outside their respective jurisdictions...
Remeber also, that these security people are mainly former American military or police officers with a much higher degree of professionalism, currently, especially after their additdional company training, than most, if not all, other participating factions in all of Iraq.
Failure to acknowledge the above, as the media and other detractors have done, amounts to the real crime here. And these media and affliliated slanderers with no evidence to back up their claims should all at least be personally sued by Blackwater, et al. And I would be more than happy to represent these unlawfully
liabled contractors.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Fritz, NYC — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 15:46:12 GMT

It is sad to see that very little has been remembered or learned from history. The Romans had a problem with hired merceneries, and eventually it led to the destruction of society as a whole. When a regular soldier can't even get his armor, proper weaponry and medical care because the raw resources(i.e. money) go to a privatly funded elite force, no wonder the morale is dipping more and more. What can we say of justice and freedom for the Iraqi's when we apathetic citizens let our representitives and executive department officials pull a Goodfellas-esque bust-out of the government's money and infrastructure. It's insulting to troops, its insulting to the memories of all those who have fought and died, and all so that Republican connected construction/commodities/security firms can beef up their profit margins. Republicans rattle the saber at anyone not 'supporting the troops', while they divert money and logistics away from the armed forces so that private firms can receive no-bid contracts for indefinite amounts of time. Ladies and gentlemen, SOMETHING ABOUT THIS JUST ISN'T RIGHT, and while we should all be insulted, we are distracted, apathetic, or just plain lazy to do anything about it.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

peter staats austin texas — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 15:48:32 GMT

What blows me away is that the there are Diplomats
in the guarded cars.

What kind of Diplomat can not see this is wrong?

peter

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Not Surprised, San Leandro, Calif — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 15:48:51 GMT

The U.S. government has always used mercenaries and other third parties as killers in their wars for cheap raw materials and lucrative markets. It's what they did with terrorists such as the 'contras' and the terrorists Cuban mafia in Miami (remember Posada Carriles?). And it helps keep the 'official troop count' down. U.S. imperialism hasn't changed in 110 years so get used to it; and get your kids ready.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

N.A. Victoria, BC — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 15:50:20 GMT

Its a WAR. In wars , and for all Ive seen, almost all theatres experience more civillian , than military casualties. Sometimes its because of mistaken identity , sometimes its because of a lack of discipline. Sometimes its because one or more factions is trying to initiate scenarios where civillians are more likely to die. One thing is sure. Its always abhorent to see innocents slaughtered.

Unfortunately, we will now never really know what happened on that road. There can be no proper investigation. There isnt even an autopsy that can confirm how any one civillian died or what munitions actually killed them. It is widely rummored and alledged that Blackwater opperates aggressively, and there are a few well documented cases that lend at least some valid credence to that claim, so its easy to blame without proof that they probably did something wrong. Its easy for Blackwaters supporters to say that because insuragents like to construct scenarios where blame for death can be put on others, that the civillian family in the car may have been a human shield. The bottom line is: none of it is proven.

Probably what happened is the driver , after the IED went off , drove blindly , and in panic, away from the detonation and small arms fire, straight at the Blackwater convoy. That would make them look like a suicide run to anyone defending the convoy. Probably, with the current modus opperandi of Blackwater staff , there was little in the way of hesitation about what to do about an unkown contact careening towards their position after incoming fire.

The bottom line is where hostile forces exchange fire , there is always the possibility of innocent death. The only way to end it is to remove the combatants. Unfortunately, the Iraqis are reliant on others for security , and who can blame them. If the US leaves , it would be them having to deal with the blame game for all these instances. They seem both unable, and unwilling to take on this charge. Its always convenient to let responsibility pass to others. In Saddams day , they would have killed everyone possibly involved , and then everyone who complained about it. Its a better situation now when the security forces at least profess to be avoiding causing unnecessary death.

As for all the bleeding of sympathy and outrage, dont sit from your armchair and profess to 'know' anything about it. The only certianty is its a tragedy. No one else is stepping up to do the job so we will all have to accept the current situation as it stands unless others would like to offer a better solution, and be ready to commit the resources and manpower to back it up.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

don phoenix — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 15:52:33 GMT

perhaps bush and cheney can ask congress for just a little more, say $2B, to handle the bad PR of blackwater, etc.? while they're cutting healthcare for kids, food and drug safety, etc.........

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

matt scott, concord, north carolina — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 15:54:00 GMT

go do a little research on blackwater BEFORE you talk about them and act like an expert. there is a literal torrent of information available on blackwater and kyle is right from what i have seen, and no i am not affilated with blackwater in any way shape or form. think about what you would do if you wanted to defeat the U.S. in iraq. shooting at armed soldiers and hiding in a crowd preferably behind a crowd of women and children and waiting for them to take the heat for it. do you want to explain to a soldier why he has to stand there and get shot at and he can't return fire? how about the fact that some of those women and children volunteer to get shot? how far would you go to get someone out of your hometown? these men are highly trained individuals who would be considred masters of their trade if it were any other and they dont like to take innocent life any more than you do, their job is to PROTECT other people from those that don't care about innocent or not.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Craig Wilmoth, Guthrie, OK — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 15:55:01 GMT

Lita, You state there are more than 150,000 Blackwater employees in Iraq. I would think thier number of deaths would rival that of U.S. Army, and it would be reported. They are not hired to just protect embassy. They will protect any who hire, including Iraqi gvmt officials. It doesn't hurt active duty morale, Blackwater personnel have experience, which demands higher pay, just like many other lines of work. And if you believe there are enough of them to round up huge numbers of U.S. citizens under the pretense of 'bird flu' you should start writing fiction.

Travis, apparently Blackwater ROE is more effective than U.S. Army at keeping people alive. We don't here about them dying, or those they protect anywhere near as often as the military. Do you enjoy
ridiculing the military? Do you ridicule all who don't do something perfectly?

Chris, Your opinion about Blackwater having a negative impact in Iraq sounds like your crying, just as anyone over there. They are effective at what they do, others are jealous.

To all; don't rush to conclusions, I believe that no one would want to be convicted based on heresay and emotion. Without facts such as which weapons fired the rounds killing the civilians, then it boils down to who can whip up mob frenzy. And in the face of mob frenzy, I want experienced, tough, Blackwater.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

dave — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 15:58:06 GMT

we have more than enough troops to field in iraq but the gov't hires these people???? the schmuks have run amuck. only gonna get worse so hold on.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Douglas Hamar, Portland, OR — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 15:58:08 GMT

The comparrisons to Abu Ghraib, the comment about hiding behind sunglasses all the above references to the type of "training" these guys receive, brings to mind the "Lucifer Effect" by Phillip Zimbardo, a book I think should be required reading at the high school level.
The problems arrise more from the strategy being implemented for "security" than the idividuals trying to carry it out.
Willie Callison has it right, hire locally.

The US should hire the entire population of Iraq to provide their own security.
We offer to pay every Iraqi over the age of six for every day that goes by without a bombing, assassination or kidnapping for an entire year. At the end of that year, we withdraw our troops.

This plan would give the Iraqi people tangible and clearly defined reasons to work together:
1. US occupation over in 365 days.
2. A year of relative peace.
3. A decent income.
4. A sense of control over their own lives.

Why would this plan work? How much sympathy or apathy will the Iraqis have for those taking money out of their pockets?

This plan does not require a mea culpa or even a change of course on the part of the Bush administration. It’s success would just quietly make the current approach obsolete.

The infrastructure necessary to carry out the plan is a worthwhile investment on its own and relatively cheap.

Any additional investment in the plan is entirely dependent on results.

There is really no argument against trying it.

Simply making an honest effort to implement this plan, regardless of its success rate, would create a sea change in the way America is perceived in that part of the world. How often has “Satan” spent billions in the cause of peace and lifting the poor out of poverty?

For further details, visit:
iraqon5dollarsaday.blogspot.com

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Unafraid, Denver, CO — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 16:01:56 GMT

ashamed republican (Sent Wednesday, September 26, 2007 11:17 AM) says "Yet many among us still ask why "they" hate us. They don't....they hate our foreign policies...dhuu."

I agree bud. It really gets my blood boiling when I hear our wonderful president say "They hate our freedom."

That makes absolutely no sense! Why, would a group (al Qaeda that is, not Iraq) of repressed people sacrifice their own lives and resources just so Americans can be just as miserable as they are? If we were truly just over here, doin our own thing and not hurting anybody why would they care?

Oh that's right! It's Islamic fundamentalism! They want to wrap every woman in a Burka and murder all the gays! Our free wheeling lifestyle is just too much for their patriarchal sensibilities! (I guess the FCC and the Evengelical Neocons have something in common).

But wait Al' Qaeda! What about Bangkok? Good Lord they think the only way anyone can achieve the height of feminine beauty is to be a man in sexy women's clothing!! Oh the humanity!!

Or is it because we've screwed them over with our foreign policy?

As Judge Judy would say, "The story that makes the most sense is probably the right one." And then she goes on to yell at stupid people for lying...

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

JB, Oakland, CA — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 16:05:36 GMT

Perhaps if the American people would stop blindly accepting the media stories as absolute truth, act like humans instead of mindless cattle, and did some logical research, they would see that this whole case against Blackwater is baseless. Remember that the first stories that came out correctly mentioned that one of the BW vehicles had to be towed away due to a roadside bomb attack and followup ambush. Then later, these "supposed" eyewitnesses said that BW was never attacked. So how do you explain the vehicle that had to be towed out? Remembe how the Iraqi lawyer eyewitness originally stated that he was driving in the opposite direction of BW and said he was shot in the back, but also that he had witnessed the entire incident. How did we witness the entire incident as he was driving in the opposite direction? Think people; be more than simpletons who believe everything shoveled at you.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

James Thomas, Denver, CO — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 16:06:54 GMT

Blackwater deserves to lose this contract. I have seen videos they made of themselves shooting indiscriminately and laughing it up. I don't understand why Blackwater apologists feel this company should enjoy somewhere in the neighborhood of 10x the pay of regular forces along with none of the oversight. Support OUR troops not the mercenary troops the neo-cons love to use so much exactly because of their lack of accountability. Remember these clowns are not our soldiers. They are mercs plain and simple and bad ones at that.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Craig Wilmoth, Guthrie, OK — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 16:08:19 GMT

Ashamed Republican, If we wanted to steal resources,
why don't we take out more govts, where oil is plentiful? Why would we care to patrol any city in Iraq? We should just protect oil fields, pipelines and ports, adopt even tougher ROE than Blackwater.
Your ignornant and not even close to being a Republican. Can't believe they posted your comment!!!

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Jon Martz, Portland, OR — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 16:15:13 GMT

This is not an isolated incident for Blackwater. These contractor/ mercenaries have no supervision and imunity from prosecution. The real soldiers make a fraction of the pay of these civilians. Yet the army has to deal with the fallout when these idiots piss off the locals.
We don't have a draft because Bush knows if he tried to draft there would be more protests against the war, so he contracts, enriching his friends and endangering our troops.
Don't take my word for it, read up on Blackwater and listen to the real soldiers who can't stand these goons.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Chris, Sacramento, CA — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 16:20:09 GMT

I am not sure we should really compare the two incidents in the same light. While they are both embarassments, I do not feel we should pretend to be naive about what happens in war. Abu Ghraib whether you like it or not was an embarassment because it got caught on film. There US Soldiers under orders were conducting psych tactics to break prisioners for information. With Blackwater, they are the overpaid sheriff that is out of control.

Perhaps it should be required that Blackwater and other PSD's need to wear a completely differant uniform. The travesty here is that the Iraqi's and the rest of the world just see an American in uniform. To them, the American Military and PSD's look alike. This creates problems for our soldiers that are trying to both secure the country and just stay alive. It is a written fact that PSD's are not held liable under Iraqi or American law. They are payed in some cases 10 times as much as our troops who have to be there and of course they are going to be calious in their treatment of the Iraqis. The State Department has made them above the law and our troops suffer for it. While I am no fan of the current state of the war or it's management, I am a fan of my country and our troops. If they have to be there, lets not add to the danger level they live with by adding fuel like Blackwater to the fire. They have enough to deal with.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Eric KY — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 16:21:06 GMT

If Iraq wants them out. They should leave. All I have heard is bad news since I have heard of them. They want to hold a gun join the army. All contractors need to be pulled out They make more than our troops which is not fair.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Mike, Houston, TX — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 16:21:13 GMT

I was just out there myself this afternoon in the red zone. I don't ever question what my PSD's do, or when, or why. Again, nothing happened, just like always for the last 3 1/2 years. But maybe someday something will happen and the reaction from the team protecting me will, hopefully, be precise, proper and adequate. If they err, however, I would prefer an overreaction as opposed to an underrreaction. It's probably just my personal preference for staying alive, however, that motivates me to say that.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Heather, Pueblo CO — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 16:23:52 GMT

In my opinion, the soldiers are not the ones to lay the blame upon. Clearly Donald Rumsfeld praised their efforts. It was unclear to the soldiers (whom weren't trained for that position)what exactly was to be done. The CIA and private contractors were giving them their orders. The HBO special was an eye opener. The Iraq's detained in the prison deserved extreme punishment and I don't feel sorry for them. Our own prisons are not nearly tough enough. These are bad people and terrorists! The ones who we should not blame are our soldiers. Bring them home. Bush, have you never heard if you don't learn from history it repeats itself? What have you got us into?

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Henry, San Ysidro , CA — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 16:28:36 GMT

Davies, your right, and the proof is that most of the guys from southern states defend the Blackwatwr actions.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Canadian Dave — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 16:38:41 GMT

First of all I am not an American - but a close Canadian neighbour. I will neither defend nor implicate Blackwater gaurds until reliable intel from the actual events is published by a non bias organization.
What I do have to say is that the American officials in Iraq should be protected by there own soldiers - not a civilian security force especially when they are on meanouvers.
Civilian security forces should not be deployed into the melee of combat versus civilian roles in populated areas. This is what soldiers are trained for right.
What I do have to say is that a life is a life - no matter what race , religion or color. The human race as a whole, should wake and realize that we are all implicated in death of humanity.
I believe that the USA as one of the most powerful nations on the planet - should turn its war machine on those that slaughter the innocent - no matter where they are globaly.
More should be invested in the cost of humanity than the cost of oil. Because it is humanity and all of us as equals that will ensure the survival of mankind. battles

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

George Bushwacked — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 16:39:49 GMT

The curent US Administration sacrifices not only the rights and dignity of Iraqi's (with Blackwater, coruption, arrogance and greed) but also that of its own US citizens, for its own "selfish desires."-Pres. Ahmedenijad said it best yesterday at the UN and it's true!!! Think about that Mr. Bush, when you are officially retired nextyear, to the delight of the enitre world!....

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Robert, Upstate NY — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 16:42:57 GMT

What happened to our "Well Regulated Militia" or has this too gone the way of government without a Constitution. I get nervous when we are dependent on uncontrolled mercenaries to fight in a war representing the USA. No wonder our image and credibility are at an all time low around the globe.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Bud Stapleton, Atlanta, GA — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 16:46:02 GMT

It is a war. Shoot at the bodyguards (all former special ops guys, America's best) and they shoot back. Don't want to get shot? Don't shoot at Blackwater guys. Remember the Blackwater boys that the Iraquis mutilated and hung from a bridge? Bottom line; quit your crying. If we had shot more Viet Cong we'd have won that one. How about we win this one? Says former Viet Nam era Marine and present day "mercenary". Regarding that word; (mercenary) so were the Flying Tigers, the most sucessful fighter squadron in history. They killed a lot of Japanese. I don't see any history books that call them "mercenaries". Wake up!

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Lesley Guerin, Joppa, AL — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 16:47:07 GMT

Thank you for the excellent journalism, blog though it may be. I appreciate the snapshot view of events and opinions from the spot where it's all taking place. You did a good job of withholding your personal opinion, which has to be extremely hard to do. Thanks again for the information, and for your continued professionalism.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

L Lanter St Paul,IN — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 16:47:15 GMT

I am 67 & am deeply worried about my country. Most comments here are angry & condescending. Yes, people have often called politians names,until the elections are over. Now we are dividing & looking down our noses at each other. We seem to want to be suspect of each other. How many people do any of you know who would not help you if you were in trouble? If there is more than 1 you are in a sad state. Let's get more people out there voting. Voting is our power for change. We need to work together so the powers in Washington stop getting the idea they are royalty & realize they are the servants. Elect them & stay on their backs so they vote as we expect,not as they decide.Make them stop being secretive! Make them keep those lobbists out of our business.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Kyle, San Antonio TX — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 16:47:58 GMT

In order to clarify, I do not nor have I ever worked for Blackwater, as I mentioned, I am neither for nor against them, I was merely trying to point out that there were some inconsistencies (sp?) with the accounts of what happened. I was told that the IED that initiated the ambush was a White Phosphorous munition. Dont know how many folks have seen WP and its effects first hand but White Phosphorous is the thing that nightmares are made of - at least you can put out gasoline, WP keeps buring as long as there is o2 present or the chemical composition changes. Like getting hit with a blanket of road flares that dont go out even with water.

Everyone seems to also be ignoring the fact that a Blackwater vehicle was destroyed in the action and had to be towed away. How did this happen if there was nobody firing at the convoy and there was no IED.
The holes and the fire just didnt appear magically.

"Ali Baba" is the term used by both the Iraqis and Ameicans over there to classify a member of the many insurgent groups. If you ask is someone is Al Qaeda and they are not Al Qaeda but another terror group, the Iraqis will say no but neglect to tell you that they are an insurgent. They do respond to "Ali Baba" so it is the mutually understood generic term for an insurgent. Much like Blackwater is the generic term for PSD details over there.

I used to be a member of the military and served in Iraq in 2003. I have old buddies that work as security contractors over there right now that I keep in touch with. They work as security contractors over there because why do for $31k per year for the military what you can get paid $200k to do? Same risk, higher reward, less mess. If someone offered you the opportunity to do for 8x's your current pay, the same job you are doing right now, would you?

The other big misunderstanding is that when the media says there are over 100,000 contractors over there, they dont mean all contractors are PSD guys. If Blackwater is the largest and only has 1000 guys over there, then thats a lot of security companies. The rest are logistics,construction, infrastructure, stuff like that. I hate it when folks make it out to be a massive mercenary army.

Just wanted to clarify any miscontrued conclusions of my post and answer to any charges of bigotry, redneckism (by the way, redneck was a term given to union coal miners up north who wore a red bandana around their neck to identify them as a union worker)or any other charges as dastardly as being from Texas

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Canadian Dave, Surrey Canada — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 16:49:58 GMT

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

D McNamara — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 16:54:31 GMT

And what about the "security guards" closer to home. August 16, 2006, New York State employees, "Peace" officers, grabbed me on my return from a walk. (i was writing a novel on terrorism....) They had stalked me and family members for years They grabbed me, applied handcuffs, maliciously tightened, and shouted that I was "drinking," "suicidal," "having a stroke" for the benefit of passersby. One of them called the NYPD. When they arrived their coleagues poured out of the office and surrounded the police misleading and confusing them. While this was going on the abductors dragged me into an illegal-use ambulance. The NYPD ordered the remova of cuffs, but they took their time about it. Eventually a legit EMS supervisor came, and, confused, believing it to be a legit call, tried to bully me into going to the emergency room. This would legitimise her unit. The NYPD agreed but for different reasons - evidentiary proof of non drinking, drugging or stroke. As is, my usually low BP was 188/100 on arrival. I was seriously dehydrated but they would not give me water. There has been a huge cover up since then including an attempt to break idown my door (nov 2, 2006) and drag me out. Sexual groping was part of their act. The cover up appears to be enjoined by superiors at the NYPD 114th and Commissioner Kelly refuses to respond. A senior NYC official said this was part of an apartment grab, but it was also racist and vindictive. I have been trying to get professional policing for my community and supported long term citizens and seniors bullied out of their apartments.
There's a whole lot more, but ten years ago, following a premeditated attempt on my son's life, this same bunch of felons obstructed and prevented appropriate investigation into the events, and hounded my son, putting him under arrest on false charges on numerous occasions. Some of those charges were filed by the local co-ordinator for the Board of Elections who keeps her position despite numerous complaints of harassment and beligerence. With her association with NY Stte sponsored terror-felons I have not been able to vote in the last two elections. An associate from JTTF whom I had been advising since 2001 agreed with my attorneys to "get out of there." There's a long history of civil and human rights abuses on Roosevelt Island, but being white, little hope of redress. Now the seniors and disabled building is being convered to luxury condos and the ambos are outside the building day and night. I call it the Nazification of NYC/NY State, and from initially supporting the engagement in Iraq am now deeply concerned re our own lack of moral imperativ there and at home.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Ron, Encino, CA — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 16:56:06 GMT

In the Army we were told to 'Lead by example'. My father taught me to 'Do unto others'. All through my growing years I was taught, We, (the US), were the beacon, standard of everything that was right! But in this post- 9-11 world, we've seemed to have thrown our morals out with the falling buildings. At first it seemed like a 'just cause'. But I'm really lossing faith in our motives.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

JudgeDredd — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 17:06:04 GMT

"If their intentions are legitimate, and they are truly trying to help the "war" effort, then they should be more than willing to operate with the same rules of engagement as our own brave US Military Forces! If a US Serviceman were in this same position, he would be ridiculed publicly and tried in a military courtroom."

Travis.....I completely agree...let them stand up in court and defend their actions to their peers.
(their peers being The US Servicemen and women Iraq)
Let them judge their actions.
They are more qualified than most of us at home.
Unless you've been in a similar(combat)situation you really have no room to judge these people from what you read in the media.
I've seen first hand the tatics used against our troops...and most of them our civilized mind would call dispicable.
I appulade the restraint shown by most of our forces there.
I hope those "cowboys" have to stand up and explain themselves one day.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

John Don't — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 17:07:51 GMT

Far too many liberals and leftists along with their elected representatives and untrustworthy media hacks would prefer to see the nation harmed rather than admit that the Bush administration has been justified in it's war efforts or that any Republican or conservative program has been successful and good for the country. The knee-jerk reflex to convict Blackwater without a fair hearing is just another example of the narrow minds and vindictive nature of just such people. They serve nobody but themselves and at pretty much any cost. Then again, this is NBC. Why would on expect any better?

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Mr. Conscience, Albany, Ny — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 17:12:43 GMT

Somehow I feel if we had left Saddam alive and not bothered invading the country, a lot of these people (thousands of Iraqis and Americans) would still be alive. US govt needs to know that invading another country for whatever reason, be if communism, to increase sphere of influence, fight terrorism, expand market for commerce and oil is not going to work. Would Americans agree if US govt enforced something on its own people thats supposed to make them a more free and healthy person ? Of course not. Nobody likes something being thrust upon them even if its freedom or promise of good life. If I were a Iraqi, I would prefer living under a dictator with my entire family of brothers, parents, nieces and nephews safe and alive than living free with half of my family dead or dislocated. Blackwater or the US Army the Iraqis see everyone as Americans. Whether we withdraw now or after 10 yrs there are going to be scores of Iraqis wanting revenge for generations to come. Its like holding a Tiger by its tail. If you let go of the tail, the Tiger will maul you. If you dont, you will still get mauled. The smart thing to do is wiggle out of this mess once and for all and concentrate in improving Americans life, by making healthcare available to all and improving education and internal security.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

James Hans — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 17:24:23 GMT

First- The enemy we face has started a war of extermination. The enemy has been known to use suicide tactics and videotaped beheadings. This is their accepted strategy. Also the movement into crowds of innocents to use as their sheilds is accepted by them.
Second- Investigation is difficult as the families of deceased will claim the member is innocent WITH or WITHOUT knowledge of his loyalty. Burial practice also hurts the drive for an autopsy- people are not stupid enough to keep a dead body around for a while.
Third- The reason this conflict is so expensive is
1. Our medicine's cost and quality have risen (due to the focus on the best care irregardless of cost, cost increases) 2. We use the best most precise weapons in existence, and not cheap inaccurate weapons like nuclear weapons(cheap in terms of destroyed area)
Third- This is because of 1. Any reasonable precaution which could save our men is acceptable as long as it does not entail slaughter 2. We seem to be the most concerned society (Western Society) about non-hostile deaths.
Fourth- It is eminently reasonable that the harsh conditions and reports of enemies' barbaric behaviour can cause normal people to react overly harshly, especially with an emergency attitude.
Fifth- Until our enemy started killing Sunnis their actions were acceptable to the Sunnis due to the reciprocal fighting. Therefore we should not stoop to the enemies' level but place reasonable standards for proof- maybe troops using special ammo? demand an autopsy if there is an accusation? BEFORE WE assume WE are the enemy.

REMEMBER the first gulf war was about oil- Saddam's anger at a gulf competiter, WE were helping an ally. Now we enforce that peace treaty and international law against Saddam, who we removed before he got illegal weapons, And the US President, who gave speaches perhaps more emotional than the various senators is accused of saying Saddam had nuclear weapons.
He may be led by Blair, he may be led by your vice-president, he may speak in his country accent unclearly, but he fought American overreaction against the muslim community after 9/11/2001 and has since shown restrain from attacking Pakistan's border provinces. Those provinces are known as "Talibanistan" by our soldiers. Pakistan has nuclear weapons. Bush knows caution.

Bush's Original Small Attack Force Leaves Quikly Plan used all the wisdom concerning men in Arabia but DID NOT Anticipate a deviation from the plan.
That is why your blackwater flows in Iraq- The only other plan increases security forces to ensure peace for the political nightmare to awaken to compromise, once the Provocateur enemy is eliminated.

Our greatest fear is not the subway bombs but the Bomb, because we hate indiscriminate killing and would disarm ourselves of them if not for determent of other's usage.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Lena — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 17:27:16 GMT

I find it very interesting that most of the comments agree that the government and press cannot be trusted. The source of the problems with Iraq started with the first and is kept viable by the latter. We have the best government and media money can buy, and unfortunately only the 'Elite' can afford the price. The rest of us get to pay with our blood. Young men fight old men's wars. If the politicians who agree to go to war were required to lead the charge, strap on their gear and head for the war zone, we would not be in Iraq today. And now they are beating the war drums of Iran. How much blood does America have left to give? Our children are under educated, many are without health care, our bridges are collapsing, thousands are becoming homeless, jobs are outsourced, social security is getting another rape job and the 'politicians' get yet another wage increase and plush retirement which equals their full pay and full health coverage FOREVER. Billions have been spent on this illegal war while Americans go hungry and homeless. Then the illegal government of OUR country hands us the BILL to pay. If my neighbor went out and bought new appliances and handed me the bill I would first tell him "YOU DID NOT ASK ME IF I WANTED TO BUY YOU THIS STUFF", and then I would tell him "PAY IT YOURSELF". Bush and Gang never asked me if I wanted to pay for a war.....how about any of you, did he ask you? And here is another confusing but interesting fact. The United States of America (government) became an independent corporate in 1871 via a Presidential Legislative Act, Forty-first Congress, Session 111 - Chapter 62, page 49. Now here is the crux, who do the elected officials work for? Who do they agree with? Who signs their checks? So far I don't see you or me in this equation; do you? So with that in mind, who does Blackwater work for, who signs their checks? Regarding the billion dollars they received, why is that part of the cost of war we are expected to pay, when in fact they work for the corporate government which please remember, do not work for us. When was the last time government acted like an EMPLOYEE? Remember what Eisenhower said about the Industrial (same as corporate) Military Complex! The UNITED STATES FEDERAL CORPORATION is the paymaster for the Blackwater 'industrial military' which may very well be the 'private military' soon to knock on the doors of those who have 'indirectly' paid for their services....YOU AND ME. And why, well if we don't keep our mouths shut, who knows what will come in the dark of night. Am I a conspiracy theorist? No. And I am not an Ostridge either.

Lena, Midland, Michigan

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

lnp, maryland, usa — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 17:36:44 GMT

We are going to have a lot to apologize for, if and when we leave Iraq. Unfortunately, we will be judged on the actions of a few, rather than on any of the good will cultivated by the many. We have thousands of good people over there, and they are being overshadowed by crap like this.

Btw - Richard, safe travels to you and yours.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Darrell, Seattle — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 17:36:56 GMT

Bob of D.C. maybe you should take you ball and go home, President Bush didn't start this war, the four hijacked aircraft of Sept 11th and the murder of over 3000 innocent men,women, and children did. I haven't forgotten nor will I. I believe that if our country would have done something after the bombing of the U.S. embassy's and the attack on the USS Cole as well as several other attacks on the U.S. years before insted of turning our backs (well you probably voted for The Clinton Administration).I believe that we should send the message that we will not sit back and take it on the chin. The media is in my opinion is hurting the United States globally with their lack of responsiblity printing sensitve things for political gain on the left, making the current administration look bad. Nothing but complaints and mud slinging....What about solutions? I havent heard of any except to bring home the troops, thats what they think the voters want to here for 2008.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

JD — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 17:37:54 GMT

Since when did war become a football game with so many ridiculous rules. The enemy chooses not to observe the rules so why should we? War is an ugly thing and should only be used as a last resort because of this reason. However we are in a war like it or not. So do we wus out and lose credibility with the rest of the world (more than we have already) or do we take the gloves off hammer them and leave with a clear victory. Come on, I mean in WWII we were carpet bombing civillian population centers routinely and they were the "Great generation" now we are expected to fight a war with our hands tied behind our backs?? What gives? With the current ROE we are set up to lose. War is ugly by nature. So let it be so. 50K more troops, less media interference and a little violence (on our part) and we are outta there in 6 mos.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Virginia — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 17:38:37 GMT

If our government paid our troops better and American people support and respect our troops more, there will be more Americans want to joint the service, them maybe We won't need Black Water. How ever they are the people risk their life and taking the other function our troops are tight up to do, they do die just like our troops do, yes they do make more money and yes they act tough. Have you been Iraq? It is so easy to make a judgment

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

dennis williams tampa fl — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 17:46:05 GMT

WHO OWNS BLACK WATER?Trace the money.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Frank , Colorado Springs, CO — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 17:49:46 GMT

How surpising is it that the Blackwater Security forces are renegades who won't listen to advice? Who in the current administration does that remind one of?

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

dennis tampa fl — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 17:50:24 GMT

Davies, your right, and the proof is that most of the guys from southern states defend the Blackwatwr actions.
Henry, San Ysidro , CA (Sent Wednesday, September 26, 2007 12:28 PM)

how did you come to that conclusion?I'm southern and I don't defend them-hell,I don't think we should of ever gone to Iraq,Bin Laden wasn't there.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

hans — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 17:51:13 GMT

Well in Britain the more liberal party gathered more blame for Iraq. So British conservatives are the greater critics of the war.
But in America the Liberal party has more emotional investiment in the peace at all costs movement. This movement condemned Clinton's raid on Afganistan after they bombed the navy boat.
So even our justified reaction against an enemy, with criticisism, benifits that party. The allies of that party benefit as well from the diminishment of the opposition party.
So if we want to blame geography....

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Keenan Kline, Santa Rosa Beach, FL — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 17:53:15 GMT

Before you get too carried away and irate about how the media distorts or fabricates, think about this. The Dept of State has told Blackwater not to respond to Congressional inquiries about the incident, the Iraqi police cannot interrogate those implicated, and the cold hard fact is that guilty people mostly lie. The State Department has a vested interest in covering this up because as the contracting office they might be culpable if it were found that they sanctioned or condoned criminal behavior or exercised insufficient oversight.
Secondly, serving and working with the military for the last 30 years has made me (and any sentient being) aware that there are thrill seeker type A's in special ops organizations. The fact that some of them left the service for very high paying civilian gigs shouldn't surprise anyone. Being able to operate without legal repercussions is just icing on the cake. Without impugning the entire group, get a grip if you don't think it is happening!
I truly don't think the press is out to smear Blackwater, but who doesn't get some satisfaction at seeing malefactors get served some justice? And there is plenty of data to support that Blackwater and others have been getting away with this kind of behavior for quite a while.
To the fool who denigrated my fellow veteran, you are beneath contempt. To the fool who thinks that the USMC is running a clean trial in the matter of the Marines who ran amok and killed 24 unarmed civilian women, men, and children in Haditha, you, sir, are both ignorant and gullible. They did the crime, but as is sadly the case in war, the victors get to hold the war crimes trials.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Dick Pratt, Mtown, IA — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 17:56:50 GMT

When we here about one of these people the description of their history is that they were a Sergeant in the military with around 13 years of service. Is it a coincidence that one can’t stay in the Army after about 13 years of service if one has not been promoted past the rank of Sergeant (E5)? I think not, I think most are lowlife misfits that the military didn’t want.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Colin, Salt Lake City, UT — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 18:00:38 GMT

The majority of you people are incredibly naive. Whether you support the war or not, Blackwater has done an exceptional job guarding state department officials (and others). You watch a video on YouTube of people that despise Blackwater and automatically think they are ruthless killers. Take into account the majority of these men are ex-military commandos; they don't kill indiscriminately, they are incredibly bright and I sincerely feel they are being unfairly highlighted in an incident with required the use of lethal force. Those of you who can't recognize the unbalanced media spotlight need to start thinking critically and stop bashing people you don't even know in situations you know absolutely nothing about.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Bernie C. Lowell,MA — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 18:04:04 GMT

The Bush/Cheney/Rove/Wolfowitz/Rumsfeld... cabal relies on fear to stay in power.

How do they get us to be afraid? Primarily by bullying the 'enemy'.

This 'war on terror' did not start just after 9/11. In fact, 9/11 was the retaliation for our prior bullying. For about 50 years, the Israelis have been our 'proxy' in the Middle East, doing all sorts of pushing and shoving until the 'foe' retaliates.

This reads a lot like a schoolyard or hallway brawl where a few 'big shots' push the 'new kid on the block' until he fights back.

The recent stories about the 'baiting' of the 'insurgents' by planting explosives, wires... digging holes... and waiting in the alleys to attack as soon as the 'bait' is taken demonstrates the insanity of continuing this conflict. Sociopaths like Dick Cheney encourage this behavior and will try to cover it up by getting others to do the 'dirty work'.

First caught were the 'innocent' GIs at Abu Ghraib, but first and foremost it has been people from a nation that in Presidential spin always 'has a right to defend itself'.

Cheney recently wanted Israel to be our 'scapegoat' and attack Iran.

Blackwater et al. have become our 'proxy' fighters and, without enforcing control over their actions, these groups have been able to pull off the 'bullying' and subsequent slaughter without being held responsible.

If you think you're not being bullied also, just examine all the restrictions - small jabs - our leaders have taken at us and our personal freedoms via the Patriot Act.

It's no small wonder that the President has refused to sign legislation making us responsible to judgements of the World Court.

Just return to your school days and remember the petty 'push and shove' episodes that led to fights and injury. This is all so childish - and our current leaders need to grow up or face lifetime incarceration.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Ed Mora, Chino, Calfiornia — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 18:06:32 GMT

Blackwater might mostly hire wanna-be-cops, power hungry individuals with mentally unstable minds. Maybe Blackwater administrators do not screen their applicants well. It is easy to slip thru the cracks.

I am recently retired from law enforcement. I know some law enforcement personnel who have said that the Abu Ghraib incidents were justified. Add this way of thinking to the inciting comments made, at the time, by similar thinking individuals in the CIA, a powerful organization, and you have all the ingredients for failure.

These contractors must be supervised.

We know that controlled experiments have shown that when people are placed in positions of authority, a great number of them will become abusive.

I am one of those who does not become abusive. But, I do know many who do. And, when they are discovered, the solution is to remove them from their position, and no one should cover for them because they will do it again. It is in their blood.

Blackwater must leave Iraq because there are no excuses for what it has done. It is too bad, but, it seems that most of Blackwater employees think and act the same way.

I insist that all of Blackwater must leave Iraq, because those Blackwater employees who do not condone what other Blackwater employees did or do, are guilty anyway. They should have stepped forward and said something even if it was going to cost them their popularity. Those individuals should have remembered that "Many wrong things happen when good men do nothing."

Blackwater has behaved like many people in authority behave in other countries.

It is true that similar behavior does occur in the United States too; but, hopefully, we punish those individuals forthwith, when they are caught.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Larry Kittrell — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 18:44:40 GMT

Most of the comments, I am fairly sure, come from armchair heros. I served in VN and to think about your firezone when you are under fire and thinking about the sitiuation at the same most ends in death. Blackwater possibly made a mistake, evean a big one, however all you armchair warriors are commenting on a subject you know or have very little knowledge about If any of the comments come from Vetrans, let them so identify themselves.. Go there do that then come back and talk about it. This COL made the comment no Escalation in X monthe, Sounds like he may be GREEN in this area. / ARMY RETIRED

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

james sharp — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 18:47:42 GMT

Blackwater? What did you expect, other than a gang of mercenaries who are out to make a lot of money and maybe, just maybe, get a chance to shoot and kill some people and get away with it. That some victims may be innocent is of no concern to people like Blackwater. Shame on us for allowing this stinking mess in Iraq to reach the point it has. Sickening. Revolting. But about what I expected, once the flag-waving subsided.
Hemersam

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Brent, KY — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 18:48:18 GMT

I think the whole issue should be investigated thoroughly! Having said that I will add that I cannot imagine how many of these types of scenarios are the result of and driven by necessary split second decisions! Think about that next time you have to decide between paper or plastic, Coke or Pepsi! I will!

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Bernie C., Lowell, MA — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 18:52:59 GMT

It is a 'known' - the more people that get involved in a 'chain of command', the more difficult communication becomes.

On technicalities, Blackwater has been employed by the state Department - and not the DOD.

Is there any law regulating 'guards'? Are 'guards' supposed to be involved in combat?

Secretary Rice is 'dragging her heels' at giving the Senate the information about Blackwater that Senator Waxman has requested.

Under 'smoke and mirrors', we have yet another 'proxy fighter' in the Blackwater group. Will Blackwater ever be revealed as a covert 'baiter' - planting 'evidence of bombs' to justify the subsequent slaughter of the 'takers'?

Of course, no direct connection to our military will ever be made - and the little tricks we've used to keep this senseless war going will die in a barrage of delay - legalese and security 'whiteout'.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Tom, Washington — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 18:54:34 GMT

To the above commenter who would just love to see Blackwater come to the USA: It would be easier if you just moved to the police state of your choice. That way, you could enjoy the junta atmosphere and America would be left for Americans.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

hans — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 18:55:37 GMT

."-Pres. Ahmedenijad said it best yesterday at the UN

My fellow person, I would imagine that the strongest liberals in the country would be the strongest critics of this Ahmedenijad.

Perhaps Liberal Americans care only about their own selves.....Here I thought that the rights of people who are more oppressed deserve more action to remove that state from them.
Why is it that no people seem interested in boosting the liberties of the world?
Maybe Negotiations will drag on long enough for more nations to acquire nuclear weapons and then change the negotiations.
So then we can forget about hiring mercenaries.

Or negotiate with Hitler until all the Jews are dead about ceasation of the slaughter. That will work.

We only need to wait until all we desire is rendered moot.
We should have thrown out Saddam long ago with the Taliban too.
Then mercenaries would be moot.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

hans — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 18:59:06 GMT

In the pure Democracy individuals commit crimes and the society punishes whatever group to which the individuals belong.
That is the basis of stereotypes. Racism. Hate.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Joe Baltimore, MD — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 19:01:13 GMT

Anybody who thinks that humiliating a prisoner is tortue has lost their mind. First of, they are non-uniformaed combatants. That means the Geneva Convention DOES NOT apply.

As for the "South" comments, everyone of you that have made cooments about the "South" are racists. You are the reason that some people still do not have equality. We are all Americans, the problem is that the Liberals in this country want to divide us a nation.

I believe that a larger investigation needs to be done on this particular subject, but if the only information you get comes from the drive by media then you are truely misinformed.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

marty — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 19:03:51 GMT

What do you expect when you have a bunch of Rednecks running around killing innocent citizens, KILL,KILL its the way of life in the good old USA. 20,000 US citizens are dying by the GUN in the streets of America every year. Sounds like Iraq is a safe place after all.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Dave, Basking Ridge, NJ — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 19:04:41 GMT

Dear Mr. Davies Burton,

I am from New Jersey. Served in the military for 13 years. Worked for a contractor in Afghanistan for 2 years.

Yes the money was good. The living conditions were harsh. The threat level was very high. You wake up in the morning and wonder if today is your last. The only people you can depend upon are other AMERICANS who are there working and toiling beside you.

By the way:

I am NOT from the south.
I am NOT a member of the NRA.
Nor am I a sociopath.

I am an AMERICAN. I was there to support AMERICAN interests.

Where were you? Here in the good old United States. Comfortable to condone those who've been there and done that.

YOU'RE WELCOME!

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

kjr7, Norfolk, VA — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 19:05:46 GMT

The issue, once again, is a fundamental lack of leadership...from the top down. When the Commander In Chief is operating without accountability, how can we expect his subordinates to operate any different. It is time to start holding people accountable for their actions.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Clark, Roseville, Minnesota — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 19:20:38 GMT

We cannot win real wars with technology.
We must have a very large army. We are loosing in Iraq because there aren't nearly enough soldiers! Had we a million men in Iraq in the first few months after the fall of Bagdad, it would be long over now.
All we are doing is showing crazies like Amadinijad that we are too soft from the good life to fight for long or in real numbers.
The answers are ones no politician wants. We need to re-institute the draft. We need to make military service a universal requirement for all able young men and women. We need to have political parties that are more concerned with the needs of the nation than with how to sieze power. Clearly our whole Iraq experience is a glass held up to show us how far the US has strayed from that magnificent generation that fought and WON WWII.
RND (Sent Wednesday, September 26, 2007 10:37 AM)

I agree 110% with what RND said here...took the works right out my mouth.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Pro Military, Northern California — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 19:25:44 GMT

Personally unless you have done a deployment in Afghanistan or Iraq as a soldier of any sort or been one on the family members who worries about these soldiers safety, I suggest you all shut your mouth. Better yet why don't you sign up to do a combat tour then cast a stone!

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Eric Alexandria, VA — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 19:29:30 GMT

After having read these comments, I would ask how many of these people have ever been to Iraq or Afghanistan? I have been to both locations multiple times, and have seen and worked with Blackwater. Not all of them have a "cowboy mentality." If you haven't been to Iraq, worked on a Protection Team, come under fire, returned fire and quickly departed the area, then SHUT UP. I am not a Blackwater, Triple Canopy, or Dyncorp employee, but suffice it to say that I have been there, done that and got the t-shirt.

If those responsible have committed crimes against the Iraqi people they should be held accountable. But wait!! Order 17 (signed by L. Paul Bremer in 2004 on his last day in charge of the Coalition Provisional Authority) gives contractors immunity from prosecution by either the Iraqi gov't or the US Gov't. Even if we find out who was responsible, it is unlikely anyone will face justice.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

For The Troops — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 19:33:05 GMT

Killing people is bad, but if you in the situation to kill or to be killed. What will it be? Were you in Iraq? Did you see what happened? Stop all the mess already.
George Bush did not send the troop to Iraq by himself; he had the blessing by Democrat and Republican. They all voted that is including Hilary Clinton. Stop the blame game and get over it. Think about how you can support the troops and how all of us can help them and the Iraqi clean this mess up
For those of you need to grow up, read the history and study the world, US must take the stand, if not very soon you’ll needs to learn to speak Russian or Chinese, and make sure your baby don’t have a stamp on their butt. Make in China

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Henry Feilen, Chino, CA — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 19:46:28 GMT

The real criminals are Bush and Cheney who have put our troops and others in this predicament through flatout lies. These two say on one hand it is wrong to destroy life in the interest of saving future lives, but then proceed to enmesh us in a PRE-emptive war with no way out. War ALWAYS results in atrocities against the innocent by both sides. War is an atrocity. These two are war criminals who should be impeached and prosecuted as such - NOW!!!

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

John Doe, Medford, OR — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 19:47:54 GMT

Question. I've read elsewhere that Blackwater corp were major contributors to Bush's re-election campaign. Anybody have those numbers? Wonder this will determine whether they're pulled off the job or just get their hands slapped. Aren't they also working the Mexican-US Border as America's private army on that front?

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

John Carpenter, Mesa, AZ — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 19:53:45 GMT

Go ahead, pull Blackwater out, and then tell me who will replace them?

My son, a retired US Army Senior NCO served with the 1st Bn, 75th Ranger Regiment for over 10 years...he was well schooled and trained as an infantryman. Thus he was an easy selection for Blackwater where he did serve as a PSD for State.

IF State is stupid enough to remove Blackwater from their assigned tasks, (moving high profile State Department officials from The Green Zone to other localities), then, State had best alert the 1st, 2nd and 3rd Ranger Battalions for some damned intense training so they can backfill the B-I-G void left by Blackwater.

Moreover, had Blackwater suffered causalities to the "Principals" they are charged with protecting, would the headlines then condemned them for failing to provide the necessary protection?

Blackwater does a superior job in providing the necessary level of security for The Department of State. There might be one security company in Iraq that has equal status and capability, but this is a British firm…do we need a foreign entity within our US Embassy? I think not!

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

BootsinIraq — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 20:10:26 GMT

OMG, where to start...1) Sign on vehicle says "Stay Back 100 Meters" "Deadly Force Authorized" English and Arabic; more than half these people can't read...that is why the Imam(s) are so powerful 2)7.62mm is an AK-47 and a U.S. caliber (different case size); both 147 grain FMJ projectile(BW also has the 7.62 machine gun) 3) The average Iraqi driver suffers from severe 'tunnel vision'...I have witnessed NLT 25 auto accidents; no, not because of my Hummer 4) There is way too much bullshit about being sensitive to 'culture'; good and bad just like every country I've been to....some 'muslims' oogle at females, pray, curse, fast, drink (booze), care for the elderly, steal (don't give me that Allah provided crap...STEAL), grieve, have more than one wife, men spend quality time with offspring (get out there and work woman! sorry true), help with community projects...GOOD AND BAD LIST GOES ON.
*BOTTOM LINE = THEY JUST WANT US OUT!*
BUT, before we go...they will MILK US OUT OF EVERY PENNY, DIME, DOLLAR THEY CAN...and if they can get a couple of bucks from 'unfortunate deaths'...they will. My humble observations, 2 tours (27 months), and I have invited my 'Terp' (WHO SAVED MY 'INFIDEL' LIFE)and his family to come and live with me if his application ever gets approved.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Tim Daniels Aurora, Illinois — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 20:16:30 GMT

To Jeff Hogan of Ft Worth,

If you don't want to be associated with gun toting idiots who like George W. Then you shouldn't be one. Your fake position of agreeing with liberals is very transparent. Because people whom feel the way we do aren't caught up in the liberal, conservative jargon. Blackwater is allowed to do what it does simply because they have some very high up connections. And the person/s that they are connected to will do everything in their power to make sure these people stay there because they have a financial motive. But you can't keep shooting peoples children and think that calling them collateral damage makes a difference to the parent that has lost a child. The only thing that your going to do is make more enemies. Just think how you would feel if it were your child murdered by these idiots.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Fed Up, Fort Bragg, NC — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 20:21:28 GMT

By and large all I read in this entire post, by almost every single poster is pure unadulterated ignorance.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

G Scott, Houston — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 20:30:15 GMT

"Abu Ghrabe wasn't an 'incident'. It was a half dozen troops without supervision who got out of control and were punished."

PLEASE. The photos released were all about the actions of a few reservists. The bulk of the photos were never released and many of them are said to be much more damaging than those that were leaked. The environment at Abu Ghrabe was custom fitted to utilize under trained personnel to 'soften up' thousands of Iraqi's unfortunate enough to be caught up in our security sweeps. General Meyers had just finished a speech about the need to make the most of our linmited interrogations resources and detailing the means to be used toward that end. The brass explicitly instructed them to sexually humiliate, intimidate and abuse the people in their custody by any means available in an effort to increase the flow of 'intelligence' gathered.

Yet another top-down operation where the top leaves the bottom hanging.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Mark, Fresno, CA — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 20:32:24 GMT

Can any of the leftist liberals on here answer this. If we went to war in Iraq over oil and we are stealing their resources as alleged above then why would oil be over $80 a barrel. The answer is we haven't taken Iraq's oil and the Iraqi government is in control of the oil in that country.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Anon, NC — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 20:34:08 GMT

"20,000 US citizens are dying by the GUN in the streets of America every year."

In 20 years of handling and working with guns, I have never seen a gun load itself, aim itself, and discharge itself into somebody. People do the killing, not guns. You're exactly the kind of person who blames TV, music, or video games for murder, instead of blaming the person who commits the act.

I would bet most of the people in here never bothered to research anything about Abu Ghraib either. It was orders, not soldiers running amuck. And half of those "soldiers" weren't American soldiers. Alot of the contractors you see aren't American either, some aren't even contractors. They are foriegn military members who sow strife. If their nationality was ever divulged it would be the catalyst to a third world war, which isn't far off anyways. But don't bother to look anything up, just continue to swallow whatever your fed by Sumner Redstone, Mortimer Zuckerman, and Rupert Murdoch. They're all dual citizens and billionares anyways I see no reason for them to lie to you.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Ted Grigoleit, Burnaby, B.C. Canada — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 20:38:22 GMT

So, what's the big deal? These Iraqies are neither white nor Christian and sit on a huge vat of oil that we could use. Isn't that the mentality of the administration and the cause for the invasion in the first place? These viewpoints are merely filtered down to the peons who have to do the dirty work.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

G Scott, Houston — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 20:41:04 GMT

Once again the media jumps to conclusions and begins a campaign of hesteria...... and thanks Kyle for your reasonable comments.

Maybe you should be thanking black water. I'm pretty sure Kyle was reading one of their press releases.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

BILL SCOTT — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 20:51:43 GMT

BLACKWATER IS A JOKE. IT IS RUN BY PRINCE, WHO HAD ALMOST A BILLION DOLLARS FROM SALE OF HIS DADDYS COMPANY IN HOLLAND MI BEFORE HE EVEN STARTED BLACKWATER. HIS SISTER IS BETSY DEVOS MARRIED TO ANOTHER BILLIONARE FROM THE AMWAY CO. SHE WAS CHAIRMAN OF THE REPUBLICAN PARTY OF MI. SO ANY WONDER HE JOINS HALIBURTION AT THE PUBLIC THROUGH? WE SHOULD PAY ACTIVE DUTY SEALS HALF OF WHAT THESE GUYS GET, AND HAVE REAL PROS DOING THIS JOB.RAISE COMBAT PAY FOR THOSE IN COMBAT,DITCH THE PRIVATE CONTRACTORS.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Lisa McNeil,Alpharetta,Georgia — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 20:53:17 GMT

Dear Richard, It is just horrible that this incident occurred in the first place. The Blackwater Security Company has alot of explaining to do. I cannot believe they would throw frozen water bottles at the windshields. Someone has to find these men guilty of acting out this way and keep others from imitating their action. In the meantime always keep safe Richard!! Always keep safe!!

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

g scott — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 20:54:31 GMT

Heather please...
'The Iraq's detained in the prison deserved extreme punishment and I don't feel sorry for them. Our own prisons are not nearly tough enough. These are bad people and terrorists!'

Tens of thousands of Iraqi's have been detained and abused. According to our own DOD most of them have comitted no crime. Only a tiny percentage have ever been accused of comitting any crime. They were detained for the most part because it was considered more important to control a small number of criminals than to protect the rights of thousands of innocent civilians. Good people can not justify wholesale abuse of a population because they think some of them are bad people.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Lance FT SILL OK — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 20:56:59 GMT

You know it is so EASY to start pointing fingers at people who are TRUSTED with SECURITY of PEOPLE, ASSETS, and EQUIPMENT. When they are doing their job and making headlines no one says a thing and people are happy that they can shop and do things of their own will.
These people are also the first ones to SCREAM the loudest when they call for help and one of those authorities doesnt respond (in thier mind) to thier own emergency which in most circumstances is caused by thier own actions and disregard for those things around them.
I applaud Black Water, Triple Canopy, and all the rest of the CIVILIANS that fight by our side. Right or wrong unless you are THERE and know EXACTLY and for a FACT beyond a reasonable doubt what happened then keep your opinions and views to yourself unless you wish to VOLUNTEER and make a difference. BUT alot wont they would rather sit back in thier lounge chair and complain from the comfort of their A/C and or house not some bombed out building or TENT.
I think if you are going to complain at least EDUCATE yourself on what you are complaining about!
By the way I am a SGT in the Army I have tatooes does that make me some gun toting hillbilly!?! I cant believe to the extent in which ignorance runs.
Stop blaming those that you so heavily depend on in times of need and then criticize because it doesnt adversely affect your immediate needs.
Those people are HIGHLY TRAINED and ENTRUSTED with a rigourous background search. So if you TRUST them in times of need then trust them to do their JOBS even in the absence of your overwatch and criticism.
Also I will tell you that if BlackWater is in the AO and you are hit with an IED I have yet seen them go by without stopping and rendering whatever is necessary to help fellow military members.
For that and the same sacrifices from family and friends as the rest of us face that have VOLUNTEERED to make a difference I say THANK YOU!! THANK YOU VERY MUCH!!

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

CRAIG ,GRAND RAPIDS MI — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 21:03:19 GMT

BRING BACK DRAFT OR PUBLIC SERVICE FOR ALL NO EXCEPTIONS. AT A LOW PAY RATE. REBUILD INFASTRUCTURE ,HEALTH CARE, TEACH IN URBAN AERA'S ETC.PAY ARMED FORCES MORE, THEN PAY THOSE WHO VOLINTEER FOR SPECIAL OPS. EVEN MORE. ALSO KICK UP COMPAT PAY. DO AWAY WITH THESE HIGH PAID MERCENARIES

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

BILL SCOTT — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 21:03:43 GMT

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

A. Countryman, Seattle WA — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 21:08:05 GMT

They stop making Marines?
Why are Taxpayer dollars going to these mercinary firms? This whole privitization of the military stinks if you ask me. These jobs and money should be going to members of the Armed Forces and not some hot dog with a set of Oakley sunglasses out for fun and profit.

How is having a high paid merc providing security better than a dedicated soldier? I don't seem to recall contractors in WW2 or Vietnam. If there aren't enough people in the military then bring back the draft. Oh but with a draft no one would make money. . .
Washington D.C. really is owned by the Corporations now.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

g scott, houston — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 21:14:12 GMT

Bud,
'If we had shot more Viet Cong we'd have won that one. How about we win this one?'

The only way for us to win in Vietnam was to destroy Vietnam. You are right about one thing though, these things happen in War. Which is why acts of war are illegal except under the strictest of circumstances. Suspecting that someone may someday develop a weapon to threaten you with is not one of them.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

ZFR, Atlanta Georgia — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 21:18:07 GMT

Dear: Richard Engel

I know you travel a lot through out the world, specialy in Iraq and the middle east region. Your stories are always interesting and true about the war zone. I know there is a great danger for a journalist and a reporter to be in Baghdad today. However, Abu Graib case is not like the Blackwater one. The recent incident with the Black water is "security and protection" . To certian extent, every one even a normal Iraqi citizen is under alert when travelling in the streets of Baghdad nowdays. Any move, even if it doesn't comes from an insurgent,it might be suspeciuos. If some one trigger a bullet, it can make things go wrong and out of control very quick. But when some one shoots on an aggressor, he must have some kind of an observing evidence, like that person holding a gun in his hand etc... confusion and scariness could become important factor for shooting, and mistakes can happen. In my openion, Blackwater and the Iraqi government with the American Embassy, must sort out a deal of cooperation and protection protocol so this incident will not happen again, and for the innocent people who might have mistakenly killed in the shotting, they must be compensated. In my believe, this is the only way you can make the people to support the private protection operation with out disturbances.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Mike omaha ne — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 21:36:00 GMT

We had the MIKE Force (read mercenary) in Vietnam and
they were not all Americans. Their job was to kill and it has been that way since history began. Why does anyone think the civilian guards, ie Blackwater is any differant. They don't believe in rules and do not live by them. The M-force that were Americans in
Vietnam didn't stay in the military because of rule.
Is Iraq differant, I think not!

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Lisa McNeil,Alpharetta,Georgia — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 21:42:02 GMT

Dear Richard, This is a horrible incident and one that can affect the future of Blackwater and their role in handling the personal security of the diplomats. I cannot believe they would throw frozen bottles of water at windshields of cars. I read in the link that their mission mentioned ethical behavior, but this seems to be the total opposite. These men are guilty of violating proper procedures in doing their job. They have some serious explaining to do and really show the whole agency in a bad light. I hope the situation can be resolved and those responsible for these actions are brought to justice. In the meantime please stay safe as always Richard!! Stay safe!! Peace to you and to all!

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Rick, Panama City Beach, Fl. — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 21:42:46 GMT

To all you right-wing neo-cons if you don't start listing to the news we will all go down the tubes if you just believe half of what they say then you ahead of game.STOP LISTENING TO FOX NEWS, BUT THATS NOT NEWS thats just propaganda.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Mario Rios Pinot, NY NY — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 22:00:08 GMT

This is one more blemish in the history of American imperialism in Iraq and in the Middle East. What a no-win situation for the USA! What a lesson for the worlds hyper-power, to be beaten in conflict by a Third World country. The USA can't control a security firm.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Too Stubborn to be Terrorized, Denver, CO — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 22:10:57 GMT

Darrell, Seattle (Sent Wednesday, September 26, 2007 1:36 PM)

said:

"Bob of D.C. maybe you should take you ball and go home, President Bush didn't start this war, the four hijacked aircraft of Sept 11th and the murder of over 3000 innocent men,women, and children did."

Which war are you talking about there buddy? The one agains Osama Bin Laden or the one with Iraq? Because if you are talking about the one with Al 'Qaeda then yes, you're right, Osama started this war with 9-11. But if you're talking about the war with Iraq, then Bush DEFINITELY started it. There were no WMD's remember?

Please don't get these two completely different groups of people confused (no matter how much Bush tries to blur the lines). It just makes us look ignorant as a nation.

Larry Kittrell (Sent Wednesday, September 26, 2007 2:44 PM)

says:

"Most of the comments, I am fairly sure, come from armchair heros."

True. I would be one of them. I can only imagine the terrible stresses that war puts on anyone involved (contractor or otherwise). But don't you agree that there still must be rules of engagement for the Contractors? Don't you still think that there should be a complete investigation of this incident and if the Contractor's peers think they acted recklessly that they should be punished? Don't you think that reckless killing of the Iraqi's completely defeats the purpose of us even being there?

All I'm saying is that if the Contractors are going to be in a military function, then they should be limited to the same rules and laws. Otherwise they will be percieved as lawless (which they may well be) and the Iraqi's will never forgive us. And I wouldn't blame them.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Emilio, Boston, MA — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 22:13:50 GMT

ahem.. Kyle

as someone else said here...I think you blew your cover! such a defense of blackwater leads me to believe you are part of that group or connected. Like the Bush Admin. what goes around comes around and soon we will hopefully see Blackwater for the thughs they are.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

pissed off American — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 22:14:24 GMT

Blackwater gives new meaning to that old phrase "Ugly American", but what do you expect when that bufoon gives contracts to fat cat Republican contributors without bidding.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Aaron — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 22:15:42 GMT

There’s no need for a draft. We need to avoid situations like this to begin with. We didn’t necessary need to invade Iraq.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Charlie Richards — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 22:29:07 GMT

The problem I am having, in the Civil War Northern army if you didn't want to go you could pay someone to take your place. In Iraq, does anyone know a son, daughter, or close relative of the Senate and House, other than Sen. McCain's son, who is serving or planning to? Have we returned to the days when the well to do are exempt from fighting?? Charlie R.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Too Stubborn to be Terrorized, Denver, CO — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 22:32:44 GMT

hans (Sent Wednesday, September 26, 2007 2:55 PM)

says:

"Why is it that no people seem interested in boosting the liberties of the world?"

It's kind of hard to concentrate on liberties around the world do when your own liberties are under assault here at home. As of today right now, the US government can wiretap your phones with no warrant, kidnapp you, declare you an enemy combatant, send you to Guantanamo, keep you there with no lawyers, no charges, no recourse, get waterboarded and you're family doesn't even have to be told what happened to you. And all you might have done is piss off someone who works in the CIA who can get away with framing you because there is no accountability.

Sounds just super doesn't it? Thanks Bush!

(p.s.) What's the point of going to war to save America if our own president and congress destroy exactly that which makes America worth saving? All in the name of security, mind you.

Joe Baltimore, MD (Sent Wednesday, September 26, 2007 3:01 PM)

says:

"Anybody who thinks that humiliating a prisoner is tortue has lost their mind."

Then how about you try getting lead around on a leash, completely nude, and forced into participating in a photo shoot of a naked man pyramid every day for months on end and see how well you fare? AND ALL YOU DID WAS GET A LITTLE TOO CLOSE TO A DIPLOMAT'S CAR!!

But then again, maybe you wouldn't mind so much. Maybe they'll let you be on top.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Yep — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 23:01:26 GMT

Blackwater = the CIA's way around the Geneva Convention

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Raoul, Washington, DC — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 23:02:52 GMT

Blackwater has carte blanche to do as it pleases in Iraq with zero accountability to either the U.S. or Iraq governments. And the pay is excellent! Nice salary if you can get hired!

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

floyd l. loftin ,odessa,texas — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 00:08:24 GMT

I guess we are making progress in iraq we are spreading american democracy.In the u.s. we call it the mob when we have to pay for protection so says the mafia.but over there we call it private security.When we pay for protection.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

bob parker seattle wash — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 00:19:47 GMT

okay these people volunteer to fight so you dont okay, and how many civilians were accidently or purpolosely killed in ww2 millions!!! and now cause 11 people are SUPPOSIBLEY killed by them we want them out? come on there risking there lives for you give them a break, id like to see all you guys go over there and see how it is, ive been there for to tours its hell, theres people shooting everywere nowhere is safe, so give them a brake.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Paul Richey, Portland, Oregon — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 00:32:51 GMT

I hesitate to use a blog, thread or whatever this is called to contribute to what should be a debate. But for what it's worth, here goes. What I can determine as fact thus far, leaves me shy of throwing the book at Blackwater. However, might we not consider that the proposition of hiring "troops" as private warriors and as a substitute for conscription policy a bit of a perversion? We have an all volunteer army that attracts soldiers through incentive pay. I believe we could call it post-Vietnam paid patriotism. Now that the chief of our executive branch of government has concluded that the war he started (aided and abetted by congressional votes for substantial funding)is looking a bit shabby as to its outcome, he responds with his rendition of war privatization. Hey, this is getting really weird! You are correct, Kyle, I need to wrap this up. I spent two years as a civilian in the AID program for a hospital in (South)Vietnam. I was on-hand to witness (1965-67)when a contrived war turns sour. I thank General Colin Powell for his leadership in putting the US Army back together in time for the Gulf War and former President George Bush for recognizing that the Kuwait/Iraq border was a good exit point to prevent a bad war. Oh, I also want to thank former President Truman for firing General MacArthur. We all do not like the mixture of politics and war, but that is what we are dealing for ourselves. It is NOT constuctive to waste energy criticizing the current President Bush in his lame-duck status. He can read the election results of 2006 just as well as I can. I just wonder if the American people realize it is time to put the executive branch of our government under "civilian" control?

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Marcel F., Whittier, Ca — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 00:33:52 GMT

This is completely different than Abu Ghraib. You mean to tell me that making them undress and do stupid things is called torture? (I believe you were laughing when you saw the streaking scene in old school) I thought torture was making them... here is the definition, "1. The act of inflicting excruciating pain, as punishment or revenge, as a means of getting a confession or information, or for sheer cruelty." So, by this definition I BELIEVE torture is: 1. What Germans did to Jewish. 2. Japanese to Okinawa, Chinese, Americans. How about later acts like the Korean War or Vietnam? How about what Milosovic did? Anyways, I'm a former Marine and I am an Immigrant and I served because I love this country. We follow the rules and it’s completely frustrating when we follow them and the other countries don’t have to. BUT I DO NOT CONDONE WHAT IS BEING SHOWN IN THIS VIDEO. (It’s also inconclusive evidence, you don’t see anything except for a windshield and maybe some muzzle fire) PLEASE America, wake up!!! What those soldiers at Abu Ghraib did was not torture, it was a bunch of children WHO ARE NOT EVEN LEGAL TO DRINK are being MANDATED TO DO. So please, before you pass judgment… view all evidence that is laid before you and don’t judge. (I have yet to hear complaints from people who have served! All I hear is people who have read books but have never been there!) May I suggest to everyone that they watch “Rules of Engagement” and see how many of you feel bad until you see the TRUTH!!!

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Bill Schmidt, Harwinton, Ct — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 00:40:43 GMT

No wonder everyone hates our country.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Anne Post Richmond, IN — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 00:50:55 GMT

War criminals! The same laws that allowed Saddam to be hung should be used to convict these criminals. One more example that the war in Iraq is not our war, but a war lead by crooked politicians and corporate interests. I support the troops - get them the hell out of there now. Put Bush in the middle of Bagdad and let him find his own way home. This is ridiculous. Complacency is guilt by association. This is not the America my father fought for. Hang them all.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Ryan Murphy, Charleston SC — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 00:52:05 GMT

Why don't you liberal tough guys do all your hatemongering in a forum that's face to face? Say something intelligent and get some on the ground experience overseas in Iraq before you start calling people "KILLERS". I thought you were supposed to be compassionate? Oh yeah, just not when it comes to America right?

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

R. Broadbent, Boston, Massachusetts — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 00:57:22 GMT

None of this is an accident. In June 2003, in
Order 17, outgoing Director of the Coalition Provisional Authority, Paul Bremer, on his own authority, said that no member of the US military and no one acting on behalf of the US military (including private contractors) was subject to Iraqi law NO MATTER WHAT THEY DID. They had to be arraigned in the court of their "parent country." This meant that an Iraqi whose child was killed, whose house was bulldozed by American military or American companies (e.g. contractors) had to bring charges in an AMERICAN COURT. Yeah, right. I can see that happening.

The real question is why Paul Bremer felt this was necessary. Why give such broad license? And does anyone think that the private contractors are not aware of this lack of oversight? The mercs are necessary, not because we don't have a draft, but because the "Coalition of the Willing," all those countries Bush thought he could count on, decided to act in their own best interests instead of ours, and to mind their own business.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

David A Johnson — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 01:19:11 GMT

US terrorists unleashed on occupied Iraq. No one is surprised. Americans will learn they are not immune to consequences, whether they wish to believe that or not.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

George, San Antonio — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 01:21:06 GMT

There have been many astute observations presented. Joe from Baltimore does not qualify. Calling people "racists" because they may believe that a southerner could be a redneck makes me question his intelligence. But his opinion that liberals are dividing the nation seals the deal.

There has been only one candidate that called himself the "Uniter". That was "W" as he and the "boy wonder" K. Rove lied and cheated their way into office and then into the worst conceived war in the history of our country. Only "W", Karl, Rummy, Cheney, Wolfy, Bremer and the rest of the criminal cabal that sold out our nation's pride to the military industrial complex (nee: war profiteers) can claim the credit for dividing our country.

Why? Because they are Blackwater personified. I find it amusing but disturbing that the common definition of that word also describes the image of our formerly most respected nation in the world. That is,untreated septic waste. That is why it takes intelligent people like the ashamed republican to face the facts. You have all be duped by the most devisive administration that has ever ruled this nation. It is time to do as kjr7 suggests. Any sensible citizen that has had any education other than "Might is right" can see that
it is time for accountability.

This fiasco has given carte blanche to each & every illegitimate profiteer that wanted to overcharge the inept administrator of this so called war of liberty.
There always has been corruption but this is what the late great General and President "Ike" Eisenhower had warned about. He was the first president that told us
to "Beware of the military industrial complex!"

There is no honor left in this White House. It has been sold for $$billions. Let's make sure that there are enough votes eliminate any possiblity of a cover-up once "W" and his gang leave. Be sure to vote in your state so that both the House and the Senate can pursue the multiple investigations that are necessary to bring the real war criminals to justice.

Wake up America! If you haven't registered to vote, do so tomorrow. And speak to other hawks that were duped by these pretenders. They are not pursuing this war to make you and your offspring safer. If you believe the lies and allow them to drag it out, the only winners will be the war profiteers and the oil barons that have raised the price of your gas by multiples since they started this fiasco.

I'm a USAF veteran that volunteered for Vietnam who wants to restore the pride I felt when I was there.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

NORM DENVER,CO. — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 01:22:12 GMT

ADOLF HITLER HAD A BUNCH LIKE THIS AND THEY WERE CALLED THE"WAFFEN SS" WE STILL REMEMBER THEIR EXPLOITS THRU HISTORY!

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

NORM DENVER,CO. — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 01:25:55 GMT

ADOLF HITLER HAD A BUNCH LIKE THIS AND THEY WERE CALLED THE"WAFFEN SS" WE STILL REMEMBER THEIR EXPLOITS THRU HISTORY!

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Robert Mathes, Caracas Venezuela — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 01:30:54 GMT

It is amazing how fundamental issues get blown out of proportion. The US is the only country that has managed to "privatize" the business of conducting a war. You see PSD's, logistics, etc. etc. all being contracted out on the argument that they will be handled more efficiently and cheaper than by the traditional institutions of government such as the Army, the Secret Services etc. But then you see the obscene overcharging for services by the likes of Halliburton and KBR (to name a few), the mess of Black Water, and you wonder if there isn't a fundamental flaw in the thought process. War is not a "business" that has to be run as profitable as possible, but an issue of State Policy and enforcement of a country's sovereignty or defendidng it from harm. When a government starts to use arguments of profit and or cost minimization, you have to question yourself as to the moral soundness of the initial argument to go to war in the first place. If there are no doubts in that respect, cost is not an issue, it never has, because a country's fundamental values and rights are beyond any monetary connotation. The US needs to re-visit their views on their understanding of fundamental values and principles, as they seem to have blurred completely and have been distorted by one overriding idea: money comes first in everything. I am all for profit and free economy and trade, but I have other fundamental values in life that guide my pursuit, not the opposite way around.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Eric Smith — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 01:38:31 GMT

I think he gets it TOTALLY Right... see the article above written by this guy...

" Kyle, San Anotnio TX (Sent Wednesday, September 26, 2007 9:43 AM)"

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

rr — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 01:49:17 GMT

As they say follow the money...I'm sure it would be interesting to see who is really behind Blackwater

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Rudy, Santa Clara, NM — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 02:12:58 GMT

Some one mentioned diplomats in the cars being escorted/protected by Blackwater, "can't they see this is wrong?".....an interesting question. Many of these diplomats have no interest in being where they are, have no interest in the people they supposedly are working with,and less interest in what is going on around them. I saw this in countries where peoples' lives were in jeopardy because of internal strife, shootings and bombings were an everyday occurrence, and kidnapings were not uncommon. Few are those diplomats who actually give a damn, this is an unfortunate truth. Most don't bother to learn the language or the culture, or to keep informed regarding local happenings. I do not condone what Blackwater has been accused of doing, nor do I condone our contracting of Blackwater to do this dirty work. It is a mercenary mentality that Blackwater exercises and we pay for it.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Justin, Little Rock, AR — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 02:13:47 GMT

Even George Washington's army had contractors. The tradition of hiring people outside the military to perform non-military tasks is deeply rooted in our history. One reason our military has had problems over there is that this is more of a police action than a military one.

Besides the small Marine force that guards the embassies, there aren't many troops trained in the PSD type of activities that contractors like BW do. Not to say that they can't but wwhen I was there the troops were more worried with providing general security in their sectors and helping rebuild the infastructure that was in shambles after both the war and 30 years of neglect by Saddam.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Archie1954 — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 02:18:40 GMT

Kyle and other bloggers don't you get it? The American military is in Iraq ILLEGALLY, understand? What you didn't realize is that if the president says it's OK it may not actually be so? So sorry but if you would take a few moments from swilling your beer and wiping your sweaty red neck you might learn something. The U.S. is but one country among many, get it? Sure you're the biggest and baddest on the block but sooner or later the rest of the neighbours are going to say "enough already!" That's where you find yourself today. The Arkansas and Texas bloggers above show their totally unsophisticated and provincial attitudes. Ever been anywhere guys? I mean outside the good old U.S. of A? I thought not. Too bad you might have learned something, for instance the whole world doesn't revolve around the U.S. Please don't be so shocked, you'll get over it I'm sure. Anyway if you are illegally occupiers than ipso facto everything you do while you are so illegally deployed is illegal. Get it?

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

J. Rusty — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 02:38:54 GMT

The excessive use of private security staff with Bondesque licensing is just another atrocity of our Bush-Iraq debacle. Problems such as recent Blackwater issues were entirely predictable. Otherwise, the Cheney-Rumsfield-Bremer brain trust would not have set them up to romp with virtual immunity.

Private contracting is also a means to obscure the extent of military commitments and related expenditures in Iraq. Whether this was just a convenient side effect or another deliberate measure by the Administration to avoid accountability is an issue that should be examined.

Concerning Blackwater operatives, these folks are mercenaries plain and simple. It's just a commercial enterprise with unique and risky job descriptions and a highly compensated staff to match. Then, are they soldiers of fortune? Cowboy jocks? Action junkies?
Of course,all of the above (and then some). These traits have to be over represented among the ranks of Blackwater and its ilk. And the nature of their jobs will often exacerbate this reality.

All of that is fine for a private company. And it's certainly acceptable for a private company to hire a security firm. But it is expected that all those private parties will abide by all applicable laws within whatever countries they find themselves.

Of course it is not in any fashion acceptable for the US Government to create an unstable security picture in a foreign territory and then privatize security forces protecting our own government op's in the invaded territory. We all know that is BS. It fails the accountability test for the American public and it is entirely unjust to the occupied territory. The degree of illegitimacy rises even higher if our government concurrently takes measures to immunize the private companies from jurisprudence in the occupied locale and/or US courts.

If you are one of those whose comments romanticize otherwise, we'll need to suspend your voters registration for about 2 years. Except, if you are a Vet for real and especially one who was with us in Nam or Mid east actions, it'll just be flat revoked. Because you were supposed to pay attention!

The real controversy here is not the degree of guilt for individual Blackwater employees and managers. Rather, it is the potential discovery of another US boondoggle that will be perceived as bureaucratic incompetence and/or calculated treachery. Expect this to win neither heart nor mind.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

joe dow, seattle wash. — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 02:43:20 GMT

You Americans keep dying and wasting your children's lives. There is no gain from it. Why isn't bedbuddy Israel not helping out. Theyre using you to wipe out any possible middle eastern military power. So it can take over the land b/w the Euphrates and the Nile ("God's Land") so their messiah can come down. Thats when Bush's Jesus comes down and takes us all to heaven.
If those darn muslims in an afghan cave didnt strike us, we didnt need to be in Iraq.
Speaking of which, read what happened when the british tried to take afghanistan a century ago, and the soviets not too long ago. I swear no afghan mulla ever drove a plane into their buildings.
God help, guide, save this country. Amen.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Larry Ratchford — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 02:46:57 GMT

The US Military forces, deserve the same high pay!

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

John Hughes, Firestone, CO — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 02:48:39 GMT

Blackwater is Bush's Brown Shirts. This administration is showing its true facism. Give extra-legal freedom to an non elected and non governmental corporation. How can we stand for this?

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

David Nesteby, Dixie ,Washington — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 02:55:12 GMT

Pete Lida, this is 2007. Military court,LMAO, what about the title of this one? Abu What.....means no rights, WE ARE ABOVE THE LAW (no Trial). We Will not give rights to anyone under the patriot(wacko) act! looks like the wool over the eyes is getting old....where are the electrodes and the kkk hoods?.....any idiot that is willing to defend them(black water) ought to be shot....better yet...hit by a hummveee...then shot! Who needs black water. These freaks are freaks period. Killers, murderers, that hide behind(blogger created, media mainifested) honor. Did any of these guys do any good for society? arent they equivelent to the people we lock up? My grandfather was an honorable war soldier, and he was against this war. Voting republican was his last great admission of any mistake he ever made! he had a sense of the world going to hell....again, I LMAO. Get the hell out of there GWB.Stop crying Pete!NWO RULES< Anarchy lives! Wait till we all starve from being broke...the banks are next! GAS HIKE!!!!!!!!!!smf's and WMD's, who's in charge? Bloggers are!LMFAO

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

J Boyd,Jeffersonville,Ohio — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 02:58:19 GMT

Smackwater is just doing what the fate dept seems unable to find a gov agency to do, that is protect our u.s.dip(dip****)lomats from the guys making ied's.In the nam they were called bobbytraps, like *bettys,etc.I remember a while back the gov and media were saying this isnt anything like the RVN, but as this insurgentcy digs in for the long run, it seems more and more like the nam.Seems that they are following same game plan, hang in for the long haul and eventualy our public will give up,as america has no stomack for long drawn out small wars.Seems more and more like the nam. It dont mean nothing. Just a body count game to the pentagon,and they havent learned either.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

John Doe — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 03:00:18 GMT

Why are US public employees in Iraq (embassy personnel) being protected by a private mercenary army? Why aren't they protected by US military under authority of US military command with consequences such as court martial that demands?

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Rhonda, Turlock, CA — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 03:07:38 GMT

Everyone that has responded to this article sounds totally ignorant of the fact that this country is under attack and has been for over 40 years by radical Islam. All you ALL KNOWING back seat generals making comments and think you could have or would have handled things different, well guess what...everytime in life that i have done something, I guarantee I could have done it better the next day, now isn't that insightful. War is war, people die, everytime you make a move, they adjust, their is noway you can know what path anyone is going to take on any given day and to think your the all knowing is very funny. If you know everything, like all the comments in this blog, then by all means, get off your ass and help our soldiers instead of acting like your so intelligent and strong from your home. Anyone can comment from the safety of their home. Before you comment on anything, maybe you should check the facts...oh...I forgot...in our democracy you can never get the truth from the media, they are all liars or they control what is said...I believe this is called censorship. Think about all the stories that have come out and the people of this country, atleast the idiots, convict people before they know the truth. This includes stories about our military abroad and stories from home. Then when the truth comes out, oh my...you never hear about the story again, no appology...nothing.

Nobody seems to care that Blackwater, our military and contractors in Iraq and abroad are being shot at every minute. Now you people tell me what you would do in a situation where you were protecting your child...let me guess, yea...you would probably run and hide. It is only a matter of time before they hit us again, we will see what you do than. Let me guess...Kiss their feet and bow at the alter of allah....

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Publius — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 03:20:31 GMT

Blackwater is fighting this war the way it should be fought, instead of the way our army has been forced to fight in both Vietnam 30 years ago and Iraq today; with one hand tied behind their backs for fear of committing some sort of "war crime". When did we forget that war is a vicious, bloody business and that the innocent are always and unavoidably casualties of it? We are an army of occupation and as such we must rule Iraq with an Iron Fist. This is how these people were ruled under Saddaam Hussein and under previous regimes for centuries. It is the only mode of governance they know and the only mode that they will respect. Democracy is a concept as foreign to them as brutal dictatorship would be to the average American. Until we realize this, we are doomed to failure in Iraq and any other nation where we try to take our "pink pantywaist" tactics to. Winning the hearts and minds of an occupied people can only be done by force and any attempts to do it otherwise will only break the hearts and spirits of the occupying troops. I salute the brave heroes of Blackwater (and Abu Ghraib) for realizing what the true standard of American soldiery should be.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Chris Martin — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 03:31:26 GMT

Well, to sum it up, it's all pretty sad. We ought to know better if we are half what we say we are: the best in world - at everything according to FOX...

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Thomas Gregory — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 03:55:47 GMT

"Abu Ghrabe wasn't an 'incident'. It was a half dozen troops without supervision "

Boy good thing the US isn't held responsible for not supervising their own soldiers. If they were then what's next? Being forced to supervise their own contractors? I just take comfort in knowing that if the media says something that I don't like it's obviously wrong because I can't possibly be.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

ip — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 03:59:51 GMT

I guess all these dumn idiots who are supporting Blackwater here are tehe same idiots who will support "Dumb"ya no matter what...read a little and talk too much ...morons

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Alex Jones, prisonplanet.com USA — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 04:25:57 GMT

What blows me away is the fact that your country has been stolen right from under your noses, the Constitution has been torn to shreds and you can't even come to an agreement on something so black and white as Iraq. Divide and conquer. Works EVERYTIME! What will you tell your children and your grandchildren in the years to come? What will the history books say about us as a nation when this is all said and done?

Probably the same things said about the German citizens that stood idly by and did nothing as the Nazi Death machine rose to power and raged while many millions of innocent people were murdered. Only this time, the killing machine isn't just looking to kill millions, it's looking to kill BILLIONS. Will you be able to face your children and grandchildren, and tell them you did everything in your power to stop the madness that has already begun to be unleashed upon humanity by just a handful of "powerful men"?

What blows me away is that none of you are even remotely aware of the annihilation that lies ahead.
Abu Ghraib and 11 dead civilians will look like a party and a cake walk in the not too distant future.

Wake up people!

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

KH, Athens, Alabama — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 04:44:54 GMT

The real issue goes far beyond the killing of 11 Iraqi civilians, or the circumstances of this particular incident. In the broader context, this event illustrates that we, all Americans, have authorized a private army to act in our behalf, using deadly force, with inadequate oversight and no real mechanisms for accountability. I say we all authorized that arrangement because it was done by our elected and appointed leaders and in a democracy we, the people, are responsible for their actions. We now must bear the blame for the havoc those decisions have caused.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Silas Red, Craig, IA — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 04:59:30 GMT

anyone who is wondering about the heavy handed tactics employed by the quasi-national security contractors (read mercenaries) need only search youtube to find many startling examples of what is going on there. Check out this video if you don't believe me.

http://www.ifilm.com/video/2684378

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

The Butcher, Oklahoma — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 05:01:07 GMT

This incident with blackwater just shows us that Iraq is not a sorveign country. It is controlled by Bush & the rest of the neo-cons who want to control the world's oil reserves. They care nothing about the Iraqis as a people. How would Americans feel if contractors from another country came here & killed Americans in a traffic jam & then you were told they have immunity from prosecution because of a deal that was made with your country & theirs. Would you be okay with that. I sure wouldn't. Our government must leave the Middle East now. If not, then America will only speed up it's own downfall.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Ole Vet Florida — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 05:06:15 GMT

BLACKWATER OUT!! NOW!!

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Bill McDonnell, Lawton, Oklahoma — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 05:26:56 GMT

Lots of geniuses on here... First off, to the so well informed of the Abu Ghraib incident, the memo that someone mentioned earlier stating that Rumsfeld authorized those actions, well, if you have any mental capacity to struggle with the written word, read this... This is the result of the investigation of the memo that you talked about, "The memorandum was signed by the Secretary of Defense, Donald Rumsfeld, and it discussed Authorized Interrogation techniques including use of loud music and prolonged standing positions, amongst several other techniques. It was one page. It mentioned stress positions, noise and light discipline, the use of music, disrupting sleep patterns, those types of techniques. There was also a handwritten note out to the side in the same ink and in the same script as the signature of the Secretary of Defense. It said "Make sure this happens!" " That's it... finis!!! No order to physically torture, dehumanize or humiliate the prisoners. Those actions were the result of some idiots who behaved badly and greatly dishonored the uniform that I have proudly worn for 24 years, and counting. NOW!!! Onto the next great topic that the liberal elite have their bleeting sheep regurgitating over and over again. Oil. We have gone to war to steal the Iraqian resources!!! Uh... psssst... Hey there Einsteins, how many barrels of oil have we taken from them? Tell me, tell us... tell the world!!! You know so much, sitting on your couches, cowering behind keyboards while brave Americans are fighting the good fight you guys are too cowardly to fight. The answer is, <gasp> None!!! No oil! Oh, but of course, if you have any proof otherwise, please share! We SHOULD be stealing enough to power all of Albert Gore's mansions and private aircraft, but alas, that's another subject. I have NO love for Blackwater, trust me... I detest them, but this privatation of the military some of you yokels speak of has been the standard in EVERY SINGLE WAR this country, and others before us throughout history, has ever fought, starting with the Revolutionary war. Ever heard of the Hessians? Oh.... of course not, the only literature you are fond of reading is Neal Young lyrics and PETA phamplets. The only thing scarier than you people's lack of knowledge and shallowness of intellect is the thought that you are also (at least some of you) voters.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

The MAGICIAN, Union, Washington — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 05:44:13 GMT

I agree that we don't know the facts regarding the Blackwater incidents. However, war is certainly an environment that breeds rogue incidents, so I am not ready to place medals on the chests of the Blackwater employees. I can't imagine these employees went into a hostile environment without significan monetary compensation. Just another cost in this "alleged war on terrorism." What does puzzle me is that all these blogs seem to blithely ignore the realities of thousands of Iraqi being killed in a war that had nothing to do with fighting terrorism. The reasons for this war have been multiple and none would pass any reasonableness test. From my observation, this war was initiated to primarily assure the re-election of George Bush. I do support one comment; if the politicians and their families had to serve on the front line, we wouldn't be in this tragic war. The sooner we get out, the better. Iraq was never a big player in the Middle East and it won't be after we puil out.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Mary Basombrio Portland,Or. — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 05:47:38 GMT

About three years ago I learned about Blackwater & a number of other "security corporations",highly trained,highly paid,highly armed & highly protected with the appropriate gear our troops were NOT provided.Blackwater also showed up in New Orleans after Katrina.After learning from ''plain folks" in New Orleans,Not the media ,that Blackwater set up in the French Quarter,using Apts.temporarily vacated due to the evacuation.(the French Quarter was not in the area of the major damage.These apts were not ground level.)Things not wanted by Blackwater were tossed onto the street & their was flung out the window & the Blackwater flag was up next.These "security" officers were heavily armed & wandered through New Orleans & I am told were intimidating to the people.Hiding behind sunglasses & armed heavily this added to the trauma.Personally I don't care about tatoos.Our government is extremely tight lipped about Blackwater & other security forces.All I know is we are talking about thousands contracted.I do not want to ramble on.What I will say is their use is guarded,often referred to as contractors,the public is not told how many are there;they are involved combat as are troops,how many have died is NOT included in the numbers we get,same with injuries.There is an arrogance I understand & some instances such the recent killings .That is not the only one but it came to light.I'm finding more people are learning of their existence however many are providing "excuses" for what they have heard.To take in the information can be tough & cognitive disonance(oop! spelling)common.It goes against so much we believe in.They do not operate under the supervision of the military ,contracted in some way with the State Dept. which keeps information about them tight.In delving into information on the incident that recently occured I am feeling we the citizens may not learn much or it be limited.I am seeing some signs of change in our country & I am deeply worried for America.Blackwater's existence is part of it but the blending of corporations into our country,the unchecked power of the executive branch of government,the appointments Bush made during legislative breaks (as some confirmations would not have been okayed by the House or Senate),the extraordinary number of vetos,use of fear,deception,the leader & role model of human rights using torture.This certainly is not the country I grew up in(I was born shortly after the end of WWII),the Presidents insistence of NO FISA court(no papertrail),killing habeas corpus,,,I am very concerned for our nation,for our freedom....there are signs there is a slow erosion of our nation.I am not at all at ease with slow changes in our government. No it's not 9/11 although it is used to frighten us.Terrorists are here. Let us never forget Oklahoma City & the 160+ adults & kids blown up in the Mura Federal Building.Tim McVeigh & Terry Nichols,veterans of Desert Storm.The "boy next door."About 20 comments back Sherrie B. suggested reading "Blackwater U.S.A."by Jeremy Scahill .Good idea.Learn who owns the corporation.I have NEVER felt America could destroyed from outside only from within & that is our responsibility as citizens.We can not afford to brush off indicators from within.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Gregory, Poplar Bluff, MO — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 05:47:48 GMT

It will be interesting to see if joint investigations can reach the same conclusion. My question is... if Blackwater (and other contract companies) are shielded from the laws of Iraq and not under the laws of the miliary... what laws do they operate under?

Even if Blackwater is acting appropriately, operating in a lawless environment only gives room for criticism. It makes it appear that the government has created a loophole for an agency to do their 'dirty work' and not be held accountable.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Richard A. Ross; Ormond Beach, FL — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 06:14:33 GMT

Our country is so polarized that those of the right find no fault with Blackwater and those on the left find no good. Sadly, there is no entity on whom both sides could agree to find the truth. As a result, we will villainize those on the other side of the political spectrum because truth is of no importance; we must support those who view the world as we do and demonize those on the other side of the political divide.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

D.L.S. York,Pa. — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 06:31:07 GMT

The thought of ANY organization being granted blanket-immunity (before the fact) states clearly to all that there are no laws and no possibilities for prosecution.
This is NOT the message we want to send to the world.
This is the very example that America's detractors point to when they want to demonstrate corruption, wickedness and subversion of a foreign people and foreign governments by America.
The policy of limitless immunity is self-defeating and degrading to all that America stands for.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Gary Strickland Colorado Springs, Colorado — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 06:37:17 GMT

As a DOD Contractor with 4 years in-country, I feel I can speak to the subject first hand. It has been my pleasure to know quite a few men and women who work for the security companies. I've found them to be pro's in a very difficult job. No one, no matter how much money you might make, feels that one should die in Iraq. It's the job of the PSD's to surpress any and all threats to the client. It just so happens that the bad guys hide behind women and children all the time. It is not new and has been reported many times before. It is true that bad things happen to people all over the world, Iraq is no holiday.
If you have 0 time in-country, have not been shot at, IED'ed-EFP'ed, rocketed, bombed, or had to stand your ground, while some one else got to safety while you drew fire, you really are just talking. I'm home on my 2nd medical leave from Iraq, and I know of that I speak. If you have to put your life in someone else's hands, you could do a whole lot worse than Blackwater. Don't beleave me, hire some Iraqi's to protect you on your next visit.Chances are we'll all see you in the movies.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

MIke Wilson, colorado — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 06:57:41 GMT

It's great fun reading comments from people who have absolutely no experience or knowledge of how to operate in a combat environment. You are truely morons. hahahahahahahaha

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Nan Ockletree — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 07:47:40 GMT

Wow-Our country is so divided, it is shocking to me. A lot of people all riled up on one side or the other.What I feel like getting riled up about right now, is the "approximate" total of $150 billion dollars which is being asked for, to continue this war. Somehow it seems our President believes that he can make a Democracy out of a nations of Muslims, who do not want a democracy. Their religion and belief system is the complete opposite of anything that could even be joking called a Democracy- and as long as they remain Muslim, which is a pretty sure bet, we will be trying to force our way of life, on another country.As a whole, that country and many other Muslim countries around them, have a totally different belief system than we have, and they have had it for centuries. To them, in their warped religion, whatever they moght saym they will always look at Israel, America, Britian, and any other ally we might have left- as complete demons, which they actually call us. They can only be laughing at us, in their mosques, hysterically watching us spend untold billions, and life after life of our best and brightest- male and female, giving up their lifes. No to mention all the people of their own kind which are also being killed, because we have involved our country in a Civil War. which probably NEVER will reach a satisfying conclusion, while people in America are sleeping on the sideswalk. Families, even giving birth to their children on those same sidewalks, and our government turns a blind eye. We out source jobs, bring in products from a country that sends us so many products that can kill us and our children. And let's look at New Orle4ans, nearly three years later- how much has been accomplished there? Our country is turning in to Bangladesh, and our people are being destitiued in some many ways, it's impossible to count- but the rich get every kind of tax break this administration can conjure up. O.K. maybe some of those are good "ole" boys from Texas- and maybe some might have tatoos, and maybe some are NRA supporters. But ALL OF THEM?? That is a way typical sterotypical statement which has no basis in fact. I did not vote for Bush, never have, nor his father. I have always thought he was incompetent, but felt that perhaps Cheney was really running the country- and giving Bush the script in simple, easily read sentences- because he's not too bright. Am I a full fledged Democrat- NO- I am sort of a mid-liner-I tried signing up as a Liberal, but then I couldn't vote in the primary elections- so I guess I am closer to Democrat than Republican, because I do want to see the middle class and the poor being considered in all this spending- and not taxing them until they, too are homeless.My point is this- what is the point of people drawing up sides- and like a robot- blurting out such sterotypical statements about either Party- That serves no purpose- what we need to do is get out of this un- winable war, and try to pull out as gracefully as we can, but PULL OUT- as fast as we can- before we are in wars with every other Muslim nation. Of which there are now too many to count. Let them fight it out- and just kill each other- and bring our people home, as soon as we possibly can.
And, yes of course Texas IS in the South- it is below the Mason-Dixon line- ergo- South!

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Chris in Arizona — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 08:05:59 GMT

very interesting things being said on both sides. Here's a few of my observations. An Iraqi investigation into the Sept. 16 incident involving Blackwater has already concluded that Blackwater was at fault. Also, as reported by the media, Army personell are quoted as saying that they don't believe that the Blackwater mercs were engaged. A question for all, if theses PSD's are doing such a great job than why is establishing more oversight and accountability such a major concern of Washington right now? Also, regardless of how we feel here in the U.S. about whether or not the PSD's conduct was justified, or what results future investigations may find, the damage is already done, and the perception over there (Iraq and the other Middle East countries) is most likey that Blackwater seriously screwed the pooch. We can all rant and rave all we want here on this blog and others, but it will not change the feelings of Iraqi's toward these mercenaries that they are forced to deal with on a daily basis. And just one little jibe for the sake of it, why do so many people from New York seem to regard everyone from an area south of New York to be an ignorant, gun toting redneck? Maybe y'all should leave New York every once in a while and try talking to other people from other places. You may be shocked to find that intellectuals exist in all areas of the world, much less the country, and that many intellectuals also carry guns.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Raymond, Somewhere in Anbar, Iraq — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 08:20:00 GMT

As a current DOD contractor in Iraq, who does carry a weapon...I have to laugh at some of the comments on here. For starters, I affirm the comment made earlier by checking your facts.

For one thing, the total # of contractors listed here is inclusive of all contractors -- not just security contractors. This includes cooks, people who do laundry, truck drivers, IT personnel etc etc etc. Security contractors are closer to 30K. And they perform a variety of missions from the PSD Blakwater does, to the convoy protection Aegis does -- protecting civilian convoys and others.

As well, most military I come across also view Blackwater and Aegis and such as mercenaries. But they also respect that they are doing a tough, necessary job and routinely push into areas with no military support or presence.

Do I think Blackwater is guilty of the latest crime? I do not know. I would not be surprised if it turned out either way, because this is war and humans do make mistakes. Baghdad is no picnic people. Before casting such heavy stones maybe you should come by for a visit and try to understand the fluidity of the area. But I do know one thing, the Blackwater folks are all highly trained Spec Ops guys who would not go slaughtering innocents as a hobby. Something happened -- there is more than meets the eye.

What does surprise me is how so many Americans on here are so quick to automatically believe Iraqi government's view on what happened. Why not wait until all of the facts come out? I think it is pathetic to just give blind faith like that without waiting to see the alternative. As in most things in the Middle East, there will be plenty of lies, counter lies and conspiracies, and somewhere between them all will lie the truth.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

JOE MASON ATLANTA, GA. — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 08:32:58 GMT

BLACKWATER IS BUSHS PRIVATE ARMY WITHOUT GOING THROUGH CONGRESS FOR APPROVAL. BUSH WANTS TO BE A DICTATOR HOPE WE CAN SURVIVE UNTIL NEXT ELECTIONS

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

M A W, Hot & Sandy — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 08:40:31 GMT

Fact is we are losing because we are the only ones fighting fair. We need to do whatever is needed to secure the victory!

If we acted as most of you suggest back in WWII Japan we would have lost thousands of our Military personnel instead of dropping the Bombs and ending the war within weeks........! Until you have been in combat and taken someone elses life doing so, shut the heck up!

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Richard Ludbrook. Largo, FL — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 08:47:31 GMT

The privateers employed by our government are paid out of the budget for what we term "aid for reconstruction". If we just gave the money to the "Old Europeans" who built the power and water supply systems in Iraq, we invaders might be more welcome. As it is, the Jews and Christians who lived there before we invaded have fled (mainly to Iran, where religious freedom is guaranteed by law - see "Iran" on Google) as have those who lived in Afghanistan before our occupation of that sad country.

Although we want their oil and need their opium/heroin to feed our greedy bankers, politicians and addicts, there are peaceful means of procuring our supplies. Ask the Mafia!

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Debbie Blough, Largo, FL — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 08:52:47 GMT

Censors, we love you. get Blackwater thugs off our Iraq "reconstruction budget". Let them keep the oil and heroin flowing! We need it all and we need it now!

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Hamdy Khalil, Arlington, TX — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 09:42:44 GMT

And why wouldn't BW do all these acts of killings when the US Gov and its Military is doing worse. I am surprised that no BW employees had also urinated on an Iraqi dead body or gang raped a young Iraqi girl. The matter of fact is that it’s undeniably clear that Americans in general are blood hungry no matter if they're from the South or the North, they're all the same. They are terrorists that dress nicer than the other terrorists.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

chris in Arizona — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 09:54:48 GMT

Reading this blog is distressing. I've seen a few comments that make me wanna scream. First off, anyone who thinks that we as American's are safer because we've occupied Iraq is, in my opinion, misled. Yes it is true that there has not been any other serious terrorist attack on American soil. Good thing we don't live in England, Spain, or any part to Asia where terrorist activity has multiplied. The current argument seems to be that by fighting the "terrorists" in Iraq, we are keeping the fight out of the US. I wonder why is it that a ground war is exactly what the terrorists wanted in the first place, and that we happily gave it to them? Perhaps because by showing our imperialist nature we have furthered the cause of extremists more than Bin Laden ever could?
Al Quaida was once a terrorist orginization headed by Osama Bin Laden. Today we have "Al Quaida in Iraq" which did not exist a few years ago. Iraq has become a highly effective training ground for terrorist activity.
Some people want to justify the actions of war (killing of civilians), some have said that's what you get for driving too close to a convoy. One guy said he's ready for forces to be deployed in the US to "round up the Baggpants crowd" and "take out the garbage." That comment in particular freaks me out. Are you seriously in favor of a police state, martial law, and a government that suspends individual freedom and rounds up "undesirables" for extermination? That reality may not actually be very far off, and to think that there are American's who would welcome that and cheer it on is disturbing. I, for one, am not ready for concentration camps and National ID.
There are people who are ready to take this fight to Iran, which again is exactly what the terrorists want. Saddly, we'll probably see that happen next year, and if so, look out, cuz if you think the war is going badly now, just wait till we expand it further. Show of hands, who thinks the US economy will survive if we continue to expand the scope of the ground war?
There are also those out there that feel it is the responsibility of the US to rid the planet of nations governments that are trynnical, suppressive, ect. Just how many countries would you like us to invade, and do you really feel that as one nation dictating world policy to all other governments, telling the world how to conduct their business and how to govern themselves, we will have peace? Are you supremely confindent that our National government is so flawless and benevolent that every nation should model after it? Wouldn't such a world, one where people on the other side of the planet cannot be trusted to govern themselves, rather must adhere to our model lest they be dealt with militarily be, a dictatorship with America on top? Is this where we are heading?

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

John Doe, Collinston, LA — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 09:57:14 GMT

It is not the critic who counts, not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood, who strives valiantly…who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotions, who spends himself in a worthy cause, who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who have never known neither victory nor defeat. Theodore Roosevelt

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Hamdy Khalil, Arlington, TX — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 10:02:35 GMT

Killing, Killing, and more killing ... Killings in the name of freedom and religion. We all have something to say about it all … except the killed ones. If I was one of the killed and had the opportunity to speak my opinion I would say that I really don't care who killed me and for what reason, and how I was killed ... all I would care about is that I was killed. I wouldn't care if Bush or BW killed me or Bin Laden was the one. I wouldn't care is I was killed by an F-16 or by a suicide bomber. I don’t care if a nicely groomed US Soldier killed me or if a dust covered insurgent did.
Yes Al-Qaeda is a terrorist organization but the USA is one too.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

R. Short, Port Richey, Fl — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 11:00:59 GMT

Blackwater is more than a land based mercenary army controlled by a warlord CEO. It is also equiping itself with an offensive airforce. These planes need hardly any runway, carry machine guns, missils & bombs etc. Are capable of extremely low flying, like under radar. They are stationed in the USA, as well as groups of land based mercenaries on US soil.
China used troops from a different region to carry out the Tianemon Square massacre.
Mexican troops also patroled New Orleans after Katrina. Remember,'Mexico exists wherever any Mexican resides." Does this describe your neighborhood?
There are plans to create an American Foreign Legion composed entirely of foreign nationals.
Meanwhile gwb has made the "National Guard" his personal Praetorion Guard under his personal control & removed from the Governors of their respective states.
All of this is planned! Think about it. We may be next for they are practicing in Iraq for domestic violence!

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

perfectly anonymous, hicksville, nowhere — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 11:14:20 GMT

Trigger-happy undisciplined fallouts? Highly trained, cream of the crop vets? Stop the philosophy and recognize big money is siphoning away our resources...whatever your political view. The CIA has gone through 2 or 3 major "reorganizations" in the last 30 years, with the result that Ops and admin CIA personnel have gone over to big biz, along with all their contacts and resources. Why is it so difficult for all you "nuke 'em" and "why don't they love us" crowds to center your energy on who your ene;my really is? Oh...that might mean you'd have to take some responsibility yourself...for being an American.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Lynn, Port Richey, FL — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 11:34:47 GMT

Does anyone else see these guys like SS troops?

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

m. ainsworth, Lincoln, VT — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 11:53:36 GMT

Free enterprise and its increased profits during times of war is historicaly validated in the USA. Privateers and mercenaries can engage our advasaries in ways that our military might even find somewat repugnant. Nevertheless, these resources have the ability to act quickly and definitively to effect their goals of furthering freedom and protecting our vital commercial interests without the shakles of military or civilian bureaucratic rules and regulations. The few billions are well spent. Remember, "might makes right." Pres. Bush, et.al. understand this fact, so will the rest of you.

m. ainsworth

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

(Ex)Sergeant Bob — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 12:00:37 GMT

As a liberal and a recently separated Soldier, I can say that the effectiveness of the Blackwater security teams justifies its existence. The Army's hands are tied because we want to be a 'kinder, gentler' Army, and are always restrained by Public Relations and Politics. Blackwater gets paid to keep its principals alive and it does it very well. Granted, they are people, and are prone to human failings, error and evil, but they get the job done. Army Special Forces have the same focus on mission completion, and many Blackwater operatives are former SF. If I were a civilian in a war zone, I'd want Blackwater pros guarding me.

I've had the chance to go on missions with these guys; while they definitely do not operate within the Army's 'let a Soldier die first, then think about the political fallout before considering returning fire' policy, they are effective.

Blackwater and other professional, competent security contractors are an unavoidable part of life in an extended 'police action'.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Tim, Arlington, VA — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 12:02:28 GMT

Blackwater is providing security for the State Department because our military cannot. They are paid a lot of money to do it but it is a risk most Americans would not take. I admit they must change their image and develop a stronger relationship with military forces. Unless you were actually present at the time of this incident you will never have the true facts. Driving outside the friendly confines of the Green Zone is no joke. You not only have to worry about the bad guys but also about friendly fire. By and large most of these guys are professional and adhere to their established ROEs. Now is not the time to say I told you so but it is the time to mend the wounds and fix the problem. Spend one day on a mission with Blackwater and any Military unit and you will understand the challenges and risks they take. I truly believe we need Blackwater over there but they must remember they represent the United States and they need to insure that they are not only doing there job but strive to win the heart and minds of the Iraqi people. It may be hard to do right now but the Blackwater Leadership better do something.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

jorge — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 12:09:56 GMT

There have been some good points raised here. I agree with the person who objects to using "contractor" to describe mercenaries. Contractors do way more than just security details. Using that word is smearing people over there who do jobs that are absolutely necessary to support the troops (the REAL troops) as well as the Iraqis. So let's use the correct term for the Blackwater soldiers -- mercenaries.

If we are loath to use this term then we are just hypocrites. We use mercenaries but let's call them something else so the situation won't sound so bad. What a crock.

Somebody else said Texas is not the South. It is and isn't. It's part of the West too. With that said, however, it was terribly unfair to characterize the Blackwater ya-hoos as a gaggle of Southerners (i.e. redneck, sociopathic killers). America has no shortage of such people but certainly they do not all live in the South. Having lived both in the north and south, I know sociopaths are all over the place. I've met Southerners raised to believe when someone needs help, YOU help that person--not passing it off on someone else--YOU do it. Why? Because it's the right thing to do. It depends on the person not the area they live in.

Finally, outsourcing the war has to be a sure sign of how psychotic George Bush truly is. His penchant for outsourcing American jobs was well known (and a lot of people who claim to be patriots STILL supported this ass) but certainly outsourcing the war is showing this man is mad.

We'd better get a draft started, folks, and we'd better get the real military up to snuff. Mercenaries have no patriotism. They do it for the money and that's all. If they tell you any different, they are lying through their teeth. If they tell you they are fighting out of patriotism, then demand they do it for the same pay as a regular soldier and abide by all the same rules. He'll NEVER agree to that--NEVER. That's why Bush is so afraid to call these jerks mercenaries because the word rightfully has a bad connotation.

Time to get the draft going. If you don't like that, that's what we get for electing a piece of shit like Bush to office. Don't vote for a guy if you don't agree with him deep down. Don't stand there yelling patriotic platitudes and then whine when you're told to put your money where your mouth is. If you're not willing to sacrifice your sons and daughters for this cause, then you don't really believe in it and if that is the case then you have NO BUSINESS supporting Bush or his illegal, unethical invasion.

And certainly don't sit idly by while this bastard raises a mercenary army that is getting larger than the regular military and who will do ANYTHING as long as they get paid for it. That is extremely dangerous to the security of our country, never mind Iraq.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

David Grunewald, Tecumseh, MI. — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 12:22:53 GMT

Read the Red Cross report. They were complaining about all the prisons we were running. The orders to do torture came from the top.
It was because our leaders are crime lords.
War for profit is a crime.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Dave Benner, Bensalem, PA — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 12:27:01 GMT

It's a back door war that subverts the U.S. Constitution, the separation of powers and the will and participation of the U.S. citizenry. If it were not for privatization, there would be a lot more U.S. troops in harms way, maybe even a draft. The resulting death toll would force the war into a more serious debate that would not be pre-empted by American Idol.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

DAVCID A BELANGER,SHIRLEY,MA 01464 — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 12:35:03 GMT

AS A VETERAN SSG,MAKEING 30000 A YEAR TO GET KILLED FOR BUSH/CHENEY MONEY HUNGRY THOGS,,NO WAY, BUT GETTING PAYED IN UPWARDS OF 175000 A YEAR..I WOULD...

THIS COMPANY WAS FORMED FOR ONE PURPOSE,TO KEEP (AMERICANS IN PLACE WHEN BUSH/CHENEY DECLARE THEMSELF AS RULERS.THEY WILL HAVE A PRIVATE ARMY TO KILL MORE AMERICANS

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Earnan, Somewhere in Dumbening America — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 12:37:16 GMT

Wow, so much firsthand expert knowledge of Blackwater, Iraq, Arab culture and military strategy from people who have never served a single day in the military, have never been to Iraq---or anywhere else outside the US---and get all their information about the world from a handful of partisan political hacks, TV news-presenters and big-city newspaper writers (the vast majority of whom come from the same small incestuous social background).

There's something wrong with America alright: too many morons who swallow whatever pap MoveOn, NBC/CBS/ABC and the NY Times squirt out of a sphincter.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Kevin Devine - Miami, Florida — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 12:51:58 GMT

The real issue here is the privatization of the US Armed Forces. It does not stop there, as nearly every US government office have been bought and sold to various coporations by this Administration. Blackwater, Kellogg, Brown and Root, and of course Halliburton have profited by billions of US taxpayers money, in mostly no-bid contracts. Is there something wrong and dangerous here? Most certainly so! Wake up America, the democracy we think we have in this country is a farce. We have been snookered since the year 2000. The country have been sold, and to many non-American corporations. Just who owns America today??? I can tell you it is not the America people. Multi-National Corporations rule here as long as we sit on the couch and do nothing about it. Our fore fathers fought many wars to keep our country intact in the name of freedom, most notably the men and women who fought in WWII. Now our country, our constitution are at risk by our own corporations, and the current administration. Wake up America before it is too late! You and I owe it to those fore fathers who so bravely defended our country, our constitution.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

john florida — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 12:54:13 GMT

For those of you behaving like HYSTERICAL FOOLS.
SHOULD WE WAIT FOR THE JURY OR GO RIGHT TO THE EXECUTIONS.BECAUSE GOD KNOWS THAT ANYONE INVOLVED IN THIS WAR IS GUILTY TILL FOUND INNOCENT.SINCE TO REASON USED IS THAT THE U.S.A. IS EVIL THEN ANY ONE INVOLVED IN THIS WAR IS GUILTY. NO TRIAL NEEDED!!LET'S JUST HANG THEM AND BE DONE WITH IT.ALL WE NEED IS A REPORTER TO PRINT IT AND IT IS THE GOSPEL OF THE LEFT WING CHURCH.THAT ALONE MAKES IT THE TRUTH NO PROOF NEEDED. BECAUSE ALL THE LIARS ARE ON THE RIGHT THE TRUTH ONLY COMES FROM "MOVE ON AND MEDIA MATTERS"WE HAVE WAISTED OUR MONEY ON JUDGES AND COURTS BECAUSE IF THEY DON'T SUPPORT THE LEFT THEY ARE JUST WRONG.SO LET'S HAND BLACKWATER FIRST AND ASK QUESTIONS LATER OR DON'T BOTHER WITH THE QUESTIONS AT ALL LET'S JUST EXECUTE THEM AND BE DONE WITH IT.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Joe, Austin Texas — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 13:01:22 GMT

I think the media is totally missing the point. Diplomats are not soldiers. All these comparisons to how U.S military forces operate as compared to Blackwater is redicules. The military trains soldiers, and military leadership to accept that soldiers are expendable to complete the mission, if necessary. A soldier is supposed to take great risks to make a mission a success. That is what being a soldier is all about. That is not a requirement of a diplomat. As a matter of fact it is the opposite. If diplomats are not protected diplomats end up dead and can't conduct diplomacy. Pretty simple. I just read on MSNBCs online web site the other day about a Lebanese politician killed by a car bomb. It was the 6th politician in so many years killed in this fashion in Lebanon. How many state department officials have blackwater lost? Zero that I am aware of in over 5 years of war in Iraq. I imagine there are more than a few Lebanese officials wishing they had dedicated agressive protection provided by a company like blackwater. The aggressive nature and total insistence on keeping the populace away from their principle is the only thing that ensures they are alive and well to conduct diplomacy in Iraq. The reality on the ground in Iraq is this. If you allow the polpulace to get close to your principle they die by suicide bomber. If you allow vehicles to close on them they die by car bombing. That's the reality on the ground not just in Iraq and Lebbanon but the rest of the middle east as well. Do you really think any one at the state department cares more about conducting successful diplomacy than living through the day? I doubt it. And if they did put there priorities in that redicules reverse order they wouldn't live long enough to conduct diplomacy in a place like Iraq. Blackwaters record of doing what it is supposed to is stellar, keeping their clients alive and well. All this criticism of blackwaters tactics and agressive nature comes from a total lack of understanding of the mission and mind set it takes to keep client alive and the tactics insurgents use of blending into the populace to launch attacks on U.S service members and government employees in Iraq.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Del,yakima,wa — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 13:22:57 GMT

as a former soldier,i would like to remind all that if you dont know what your talking about,best to keep your mouth shut.blackwater-watch your six

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

John, Coronado, Calif — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 13:35:20 GMT

There appears to be a great deal of experts here who can't spell and lack a capacity for critical thought. "I saw it on YouTube..." I am rolling, laughing. That's as rich as "I saw it on CNN so it has to be true".

First, this BlackWater detachment was State Dept for those who are incorrectly identifying them as the Pentagon. They were acting as security for State Dept personnel. I am not sure where Kyle got the intel that the device was an IED or Willie Pete but reports indicate that it was a car bomb with three suicide bombers. Also, most IED's are HE in nature not WP. As far as double tap goes, I agree that BW being mostly former SEAL's (Navy not Army as stated by another poster) they are practiced in fire discipline. However, the method you write about is more a CQB technique and it's in keeping with fire discipline it is two chest - one to the head if even that (The head shot is usually after they are down to ensure death: safety shot) is needed. Additionally, to say that it is empirical that the Tangos use exclusively 7.62mm (AK-47 and derivitives) is incorrect. Although it is readily available they also use western armament that was stolen enmass. I think though that it's the M4 Carbine that was implied only we are using. It would be great if the forensics were that clear. BW uses a wide arsenal that includes MP5S, M4's, Modified M14's, MG4's, FN Mags. These range from 9mm to 7.62mm.

To the poster who stated that it was their understanding that Marines protect Embassy personnel that is half correct. They protect the actual Embassy and provide physical security which would include the protection of personnel onsite. However the U.S. State Dept Diplomatic Security Special Agents are in charge of a mission's security program. However personal protection on the scale needed in Iraq at the moment would be out-sourced.

To the poster who stated that you would have to be there to understand. At first I felt this was a tool to gloss over and be apologetic to the action. Now that I have read all the posts and a majority are imflammatory and lack any overt capacity for critical thought I agree. These operators were in a situation which by several accounts reported that a car bomb was detonated. The surviving bomber was dressed in an Iraqi Police uniform and was shot and killed immediately which would be correct procedure. Moments later an Iraqi Fire Brigade truck came speeding toward the motorcade and crashed into the rear vehicle. A crowd then gathered. All things taken and the short period of time to process this could appear as an ambush and the friendly IP's could have appeared like insurgents. The fact that they fired before verifying weapons is sloppy and shows a lack of fire discipline. Even the lowliest grunt understands the rules of engagement; Fire when fired upon. I doubt that these BlackWater operators were former DEVGRU.

There needs to be an investigation and trial if the is the findings demonstrate culpability on the operators part. BW operators are not governed by the UCMJ so applicable U.S. laws should be used to prosecute if necessary. There has to be accountibility.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Portsmouth , Ohio — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 13:37:12 GMT

The amount of money BW people make can not fairly be compared to the money our troops make . We pay for our troops room and board , food , vehicles , armament , not to mention retirement , medical , and all other benefits they so richly deserve . while BW i would bet does not give their people most of the ongoing benefits our troops get , so the BW personnel would have to pay for it themselves ( so the money is not the problem ) oversight however would be . We pay our sports players more and all they do is play a damn game .I can not condone nor condemn BW people until all the facts are in , not just what the media wants us to know ,they have an agenda of their own thats not so honorable .

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Jack, Fairfax Station, VA — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 13:56:05 GMT

There are more contractors in Iraq than US military. And, all this is very expensive. The US debt is now almost $10 trillion, of which 80% came from the Reagan/Bush/Bush administrations. $8 trillion. Which is costing us around $320 billion per year. Figure interest is currently at 4%. Cheney says deficits dont matter. Since he will probably be dead in 5 years; yes, they dont matter - to him. But, the rest of us will be paying interest on the Republican debts for the rest of our lives. And, the more they spend, the more it is going to cost us.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Mike Osborne, McLoud, Ok — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 14:01:49 GMT

Most BW employees are NOT "troops", only a select few are. Most of them are the logistical types. BW has many occupations as they provide many services, not just security. So, for the record, there are not more BW "troops" in Iraq than U.S. military, by any stretch of the imagination. Has anyone that is criticizing these people ever been under fire? Have you ever asked for proof of anything or do you just "believe everything you see on tv"? This is the problem with Americans. We are too lazy to research topics before we form an opinion about them and so many of us fall victim to media misinformation and ignorance. However, I find it impossible to believe that BW employees, State Department employees, or even current special operators use the "double-tap" technique while in a moving convoy, in traffic, and under fire. This is a technique that is employed in close-quarter small arms combat exclusively and does not refer to a shot to the chest and head, but rather two shots to the chest. This is not television, it is real life. Noone is going to change target areas in the middle of a shoot-out. If, and I do mean if, however, these personnel in question are not excercising fire discipline and as a result, civilians are getting killed, then they need to be held accountable. I'm no fan of the Bush administration, nor his policies, but just because I am not does not mean I'm going to jump on anything that occurs within it and ridicule it out of ignorance. By the way, if the oil in Iraq is "being shipped out the back door", where is it going? Certainly not here. Yes, the weapons of mass destruction was a scam and the administration likely knew there were little if any to be found, it was Iraq's Gulf of Tonkin incident at best. It was even put out in the media prior to the invasion that Bush was contemplating using the yet-to-happen shooting down of an American plane in Iraq as a predecessor to war.... use your imagination. Ask yourselves these questions... Who benefits from this war? Why start a war with Iraq at all? Was this not the perfect time to invade anyone without undue suspiscion by declaring them an enemy of America? Why did (does?) the vice-president have a vested interest in a contracting company that has an elite security detachment? Why did they choose this company and WHEN did they choose it? Why a company directly connected to oil and military support? Who else profits from this company? How much money has this company made as a result of the war in Iraq? Why were permenant facilities for Americans being built in Iraq at the beginning stages of the occupation if this was not supposed to be an occupation? Answer these questions and then you will have the news story of the millenium, and likely the biggest political scandal of all time. War for profit by America's elite. The supposed defenders of democracy.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Alpine Wasington, wasington DC — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 16:20:41 GMT

Questioning...what's US looking for in midle east?
what's realy behind that? terorism is stupid reason.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Chance Voight — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 17:24:09 GMT

>>Probably what happened is the driver , after the IED went off , drove blindly , and in panic, away from the detonation and small arms fire, straight at the Blackwater convoy. That would make them look like a suicide run to anyone defending the convoy. Probably, with the current modus opperandi of Blackwater staff , there was little in the way of hesitation about what to do about an unkown contact careening towards their position after incoming fire.<<

That’s immaterial. The Iraqis hate Blackwater—that’s all that matters. We can’t sit here and say, “It was justified” and expect Iraqis to give a damn what we think. We invaded them based on lies, we are occupying their country for no reason than because we want their oil, we have screwed up their lives and their culture and they never asked us to invade, never wanted us there. THAT is what matters. So it is completely beside the point whether Blackwater was justified or not. We shouldn’t be there—period. And if we continue to act as though it only matters what we think, Blackwater is going to find itself out on its ear and you can kiss Bush’s little noble experiment goodbye.

>>Lita, You state there are more than 150,000 Blackwater employees in Iraq.
I would think thier number of deaths would rival that of U.S. Army, and it would be reported.<<

No, sir. Bush administration official policy is that “contractor” deaths are not figured into the official death count. This demonstrates how utterly bamboozled Americans are by the Bush administration. You believe that something would naturally be done a certain way and it would be above-the-board and everyone would know. Not so with this administration. They lie and deceive at every turn. You are aware, I hope, that the military is reporting a lessening of violence by fudging the numbers and the way they find dead bodies. If a group of bodies are bound, tortured and dumped then it is sectarian but if they are shot where they stood and left that way then they count it as incidental violence and do not count them as part of sectarian or insurgent violence. There are no investigations, they just look at the manner of death and arbitrarily decide whether those bodies will go on the official death count or not. You are being deceived into believing the surge is working. As long as you still believe it by January of 2009, Bush is happy. My question is, what will you finally do when you realize how badly you’ve been lied to and hoodwinked?

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Chris, Fruita Colorado — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 19:54:27 GMT

Is the situation in Iraq a creation of the left-wing media? If you're answer is yes, go ahead and put your head in the oven...Rush Limbaugh says it's the right thing to do, and Bill O'Reilly agrees. Then, have your "loony left" neighbor come on over and turn the dial up to 400. You can trust that he or she will do the job properly...after all, chances are they weren't installed by the Bush Admin.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

John Doe, Arlington VA — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 21:45:08 GMT

to Jim C of Woodbridge, IL.
please internet search marine security guards (MSG). One of the documents, the Memorandum of Understanding between the State Dept. and USMC, will describe the mission, its operations and command structure of an MSG Detachment.

to pete staats of austin texas
please read up on article 45 of the Vienna Convention then ask yourself "what if the receiving state cannot/unable to 'protect the premises of the mission'? I'm not suggesting you can find an answer there but for yourself to acknowledge then if possible suggest a resolution when the Vienna convention cannot be implemented.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Marshall — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 23:28:09 GMT

Please understand two things Nothing is ever how it seems at first glance. Oil is something we need to get rid of or move away from Period. The BW people do a job nobody wants. Since 2006 they are under the military code of justice. The military commanders are responsible for all actions done by these PSD. The military commanders are under great pressure to perform a job that given the amount of troops deployed and armament is impossible to achieve total success. The Marines do protect the embassy and the dignitaries, but they are needed else where fighting real battles of insergents. I do believe we need to understand we need new leaders in Washington both sides are lining thier pockets with big business if your believe anything else your fooling yourself. The war on terror should have never been waged and the belief that we could change fanitisism with troop deployment is rediculous in the first place. The congress security council has oversite over all CIA and FBI files and could have gotten all memos and such if they wanted and reported to thier peers the lack of real evidence. The idea at the time was to get back at those that destroyed our towers, and the majority of Americans and Politicians went like lambs to the slaughter on that one. Leaders should lead not by popular opinion, but by the fortitude that something is right is worth the fight. Blame Bush if you want he only has deployment rights for 180 days Congress has to approve it after that. All our leaders are responsible for this and all should pay the price. Vote against anyone who didn't give a no vote when the ok to go to war against Sadam was given. THAT INCLUDES SENATOR CLINTON "Presidential Canidate". Don't fool yourself.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Jayne Ferguson, Los Angeles, California — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 01:02:03 GMT

Dear Richard:
This has been covered extensively in print, but only slightly on television. I saw you do one piece on it on Nightly News. This is such an issue can't Nightly, MSNBC TV and the Today Show give it more investigative coverage?
It sure would be more informative than many of the pieces which have made all the networks and cable channels since this story broke. I don't think I need to name them...

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Jeff — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 09:34:59 GMT

"I would love to see Blackwater employed here in the states, starting in NYC, D.C, LA. It would be wonderful watching them take out the garbage.Imagine the suprised faces of GANGS, DRUG DEALERS, and the rest of the BAGGY PANTS CROWD (i.e. minorities, kill em all!) (my emphasis added). I would gladly pay more taxes to see that."

Nice to see Republicans showing their true colors. It's great to see them happily throw out the Constitution, Posse Comitatus, etc for more authoritarianism! But heaven forbid anyone try to limit their .50 cal sniper rifles or full auto machine guns. They like that 2nd amendment, but the rest of the constitution is crap right?

And one last question. If/when Hillary becomes president, would you be just as happy to see President Hillary Clinton deploying Blackwater mercenaries to your town to quell the rednecks, militia people and the rest of the pickup truck riding shotgun toting southern crowd? Oh wait, if it's not minorities or liberals, it's not so fun is it?

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Steve, Annapolis, MD — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 11:31:01 GMT

Oh my god! Throwing frozen water bottles at windshields?!? Those barbarians!! Next thing you know, they'll be chopping peoples heads off and blowing up women and children with no regard. Glad to see most of you folks have no freakin' idea who the real enemy is here. Pathetic.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Dave K, Seattle, WA — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 13:27:43 GMT

GLH Pennsylvania says: "I would love to see Blackwater employed here in the states, starting in NYC, D.C, LA. It would be wonderful watching them take out the garbage.Imagine the suprised faces of gangs, drug dealers, and the rest of the baggy pants crowd."

Wow, the Taliban only hits you with a stick when you're not following the mandated dress code. Apparently GLH wants Blackwater to be for Bush what the Fedayeen was for Saddam.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

911 Redux — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 13:36:00 GMT

If anyone cares to learn about a model of efficiency, loyalty, courtesy, and dedication in the protection of American diplomats in a high threat environment, I recommend some research into the bodyguard force at the American Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon. Under the direction of American Diplomatic Security Service personnel, the Lebanese national bodyguards of Christian and Muslim backgrounds are consummate well-trained and disciplined personal protection professionals; a model organization upon which others should be structured and against which others should be measured for success.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Don Wyatt Collinston, LA — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 14:26:08 GMT

Hear, Hear, John Doe from Collinston, LA

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

MC Killah-Pimp, Sacramento CA — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 15:29:06 GMT

Why do the "gun-toting sociopaths" have to be associated with the NRA? There are plenty of gun-toting sociopaths in the cities that support rap music. Maybe Blackwater is more closely associated with gangster rappers, considering ther propensity for "drive-by's"

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

HassanM.D. New York — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 17:24:19 GMT

Kyle,
It appears that you know a lot about Blackwater and a little bit about Muslim burial traditions and funerals. Blackwater is only making certain super rich Americans like Cheney and Bush and all filth at Blackwater richer. These sociopathic criminals shoot and kill Iraqis for fun and entertainment. Most Americans are a kind and just people who are compassionate to the needs of others. I do not think that you are like most good Americans. It is wonderful gift from Allah when these Blackwater terrorists are taken alive and their captors have the opportunity to spend some quality time with them. Kyle, I hope that they take you alive and start with cutting off your fingers and hands that you used to kill defenseless people with.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Name WIthheld — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 19:13:04 GMT

Blackwater provides essential security operations that the US military and/or its allies are either unwilling or unable to perform. The hard fact is that US military's mission in Iraq would simply not be possible if it were not for Blackwater and other private security firms providing security and other essential services.

Blackwater operates in an environment too hostile to describe and has performed literally thousands of missions fraught with dangers too great for the average person to comprehend. Blackwater has performed these security operations with very little notoriety or loss of life. Blackwater's operators are the very definition of "quiet professionals."

Blackwater's repuation, contrary to what is posted in this idiotic log, is almost universally held in high regard throughout the US military. This is because Blackwater hires only the best operators available--most of whom are men who served in the US military's Special Forces and have held Top Secret clearance levels. These include former Navy SEALs, US Army Delta operators, Marine Force RECON, US Air Force Forward Combat Controllers, etc.

Blackwater is being used as a political shill by people who have a distinct anti-war agenda. They are attempting to smear Blackwater in the hopes of creating headlines. They incorrectly describe Blackwater as "mercenaries" and "hired guns" when nothing could be farther from the truth.

Blackwater's ownership and operators are, to the last man, patriots who are deeply committed to success in Iraq and other trouble spots where the US' national security interests are at stake.

And I have FIRST HAND knowledge of such things. No, I do not work for Blackwater. But I have had the opportunity to train at their superb facilities and I have personally worked along side their operators.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

P J Bayside, Nw York — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 22:28:29 GMT

As a former U.S. Army (Active branch)soldier who is also a former New York City Police during 9-11 as well as being a New York City Emergency Medical Technician, I have to say this.
NO SOLDIER ever joined up to become rich. Ultimately, serving this country is what makes soldiers sign up. For all of those that knock this president, I have one question.
Did you ever have enough pride in this country to do even one tour of duty?
Or did you decide to enjoy all the freedoms that soldiers protect while you yourself did nothing to protect those freedoms? Did you decide to take the road of no responsibility and sit on the sidelines?
Typical liberals. Do as I say, not as I do.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Mark, Dallas, TX — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 23:40:35 GMT

I wonder what your responses would be if he IED took out 6-7 people from the State Department. BlackWater did their job in a WAR ZONE. I was there for 15 months and am going back in December (with wonder who?) and it is the wild west over there and everyone back here should be glad BW is on our side. If we didn't have them trust me the insurgents would have many State Department lives already.

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

RJ Wheeling IL — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 23:51:38 GMT

-Blackwater and others like it have made close to $1b and part of their job is protecting US officals. therefore We the US had to have known of their tactics for years.
-Let's not forget that it was Blackwater off doing something in Falluja several years ago and got killed. Then the US went in and virtually leveled a city and killed thousands as well as having hundreds US Killed/wounded.
-Lastly why are we US paying Mercinaries 5-10 times the salary of soldiers that can do the same job?

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

Viv Ray-Windsoe Colorado — Sat, 29 Sep 2007 00:00:14 GMT

This is called privatization of warfare. Privatise is the clarion call to all conservatives. Government can't be trusted. Privatise Social Security-privatise public education. De-regulate the banks. Privatise the penal system. Privatise the National Forests. The Free Market will do a better job. Even toll roads are having a come-back. This anti-gov't sentiment will finally wreck havok on our Great Country. I still believe the anti-government rhetoric of the 90's encouraged the bombing of the Murrah Building. When will the public wake up to this assault on our Government?

The U.S. Embassy's ‘Abu Ghraib’

small town USA — Sat, 29 Sep 2007 08:40:35 GMT

Who is the real enemy?
Good question. If you are reading this blog, and think the problem is a left wing media conspiracy, liberals, arm chair heroes, or the Easter Bunny, than you need to get a clue. If you think that "might makes right," tell me if you still feel that way when a Stryker full of Blackwater goons pulls down your street here in the US. If you think that anyone who see's a problem with the Iraq war only gets their information from major media, guess again. If you think, as one blogger from Turlock CA seems to, that the US has been under attack from muslim extremists for 40 years, and that justifies our waging war in the Middle East, I suppose it also justifies Iran attacking the US, since we overthrew their democratic government and installed a fanatic Islamist leader some 50 years ago, for the sake of "stability," mostly the stability of oil prices. This is not a conspiracy theory, nor is it something I learned from CNN. It's a documented fact, and I have to wonder how many Americans are aware of it. I would guess almost all Iranians know it. Do the research yourself, don't take my word for it.
As for whether or not Blackwater employees, or any other contractors/mercenaries operating in Iraq and other places are highly trained, competent professionals: of course they are. Do they do their job and do it well? Hell yes they do. But in doing thier jobs effectively they have only furthered the negative perception of America as an occuping thug force. The Iraqi PM said flat out he wants Blackwater expelled from Iraq. That won't happen of course, and that shows the world how the US really feels about the Sovergnty of Iraq. How the events of Sept. 16 really went down we will never know, and it really doesn't matter. But the question remains, who is the real enemy?
It's easy to see by reading this blog how divided we American's are. Some of us are ready to start taking the lives of others, over what? Political affiliation? Religious beliefs? Choice of fashion? It's time we stop blaming each other, time we stop blindly following, stop dividing ourselves and start doing the research. Start turning over rocks and look at who's behind what. Start asking yourself some deeper questions and quit blaming other Americans, journalists, soldiers, artists, or even the armchair heroes for the problems brought on by the real leaders of our country. And you may want to start stockpiling food and water, for rough times lie ahead.