pmb, I guess we could get into a huge discussion on the validity of the war (which I don't desire to). I don't doubt that it sucks that those people died and I don't doubt many civilians affected there question our presence. But, given the fact that they were ruled by a maniacal dictator, I don't think the average civilian response is unadulterated hate towards the US. It depends on who you talk to. Many shiites would never appear to be thankful to us for putting them in majority power even though they are.