One question. What did you mean by:
"need to start using the MSM to our advantage. I like #3 because it speaks of hope and rebuilding."
Condescending towards who?
#41
Sorry, didn't see your post earlier. I think #1 would be perceived as being condescending towards people in the area. It was more of a "thank you America for saving us". It is a wonderful and kind sentiment.
As we are both peoples of a democracy, we should look rather to taking care of ourselves. I rather look at it (note: I am American and you cannot be more of a Patriot than I) but if this area is going to move on towards their own sovereignty, they need to thank not only us but their own who have fought and suffered to help this nation. I'd love to see Iraq as strong as America but not as a foreign property of America. Yes, we have suffered and died. I doubt ours were buried in Iraq but I would find that a fitting honor for those who did. If I had died to create a new and sovereign nation, I would be honored to be buried on what I had started.