Idaho National Guard Solider

I am a soldier in the Idaho National Guard currently serving in Iraq. I do not consider it a sacrifice to serve, but an honor. From first-hand experience, I have learned that, contrary to what the media often portrays, the overwhelming majority of Iraqis are grateful for, and support, the American occupation. I have recently been a witness to a miracle in the recent success of the Iraqi elections on Jan. 30. My unit was stationed near Baghdad for added security during the elections. The success of the election exceeded our greatest expectations.

The major town in the area covered by my unit during the elections was Baani Saad, a predominately Sunni town approximately 20 miles northeast of Baghdad. While many Sunni communities chose not to vote, the residents of Baani Saad rushed to the polls with no such reservations. In fact, the greatest concern in Baani Saad on election day was whether or not there would be ballots sufficient for all voters. Fortunately, extra ballots were brought in.

Although some areas choose not to exercise their right to vote, the overwhelming majority of eligible Iraqis voted in Sunday's election. And although there were a few terrorist attacks on voting sites, they were very limited and far less than any of us imagined. The election was a great victory for us and the future of Iraq.

And the media even reported the elections as a great success. However, I am sickened by statements by leading Democrats, including Sens. John Kerry and Edward Kennedy. They have attempted to downplay the success and importance of the election and even challenged its legitimacy. Their statements are a slap in the face to the hundreds of troops who have died here, those of us currently serving here, and the millions of Iraqi people who voted despite terrorist threats. They seem to view any success in Iraq as a personal defeat and as an affront to their party. The opinions of these elected leaders about the war absolutely disgust me.

In contrast, as we drive through the communities of Iraq, the Iraq people smile and wave to show their appreciation and gratitude as we pass. They are excited about the freedoms they are beginning to enjoy. The millions of Iraqis who voted in Sunday's elections not only chose their leaders, they also expressed their belief in a free, democratic Iraq.

Spc. LUKE ZIMMERMAN

U.S. Army, Iraq