What’s an “ordinary Iraqi?” Are they the same mythical people who were supposed to welcome U.S. troops as liberators in 2003?
That was my experience in 2003 - hundreds of Iraqis running out to the streets to thank us. It was also my experience for most of 2004 except for when we swept Fallujah.
In 06, 07, and 08 when I was there, people were begging us to clear Ar Ramadi like we did in Fallujah.
I've talked to countless Iraqis grateful for our presence, and ousting Saddam, and literally BEGGING us not to drawdown troops because Iran and Al Qa'ida/the Islamic State of Iraq (precursor to ISIS) would take over. But, your first hand experiences may differ.......
If so, I'd love to hear them.