Guess who?

It's been a while, so here are some new shots!

Another day, another trip to the Red Zone. After the Golden Mosque bombing up north in Samarra a few days ago, there are guys with guns everywhere--the police, the Iraqi army, and the "militia." Fortunately, we didn't see any of the latter (I don't think. It's hard to tell them from the cops sometimes).

Two Baghdad policeman, right center. Notice the one wearing a ski mask. Some say it's to protect their identities so the baddies won't attack their families. But that can't enhance public confidence in the police! Would you ask a masked man with an AK-47 for help? 

More guys with guns. Many of the cops don't wear uniforms--it makes them targets. 

Baghdad street scenes... 

Just another Baghdad street scene... 

Traffic in Baghdad after they lifted the driving ban (which was to cut down on vehicle borne improvised explosive devices--VBIEDs). 

Another Baghdad policeman. Note the flak vest. 

Traffic's almost back to normal--i.e., terrible! 

Sidewalk Market in Baghdad 

Sidewalk market in Baghdad, 28 Feb 2006. After 4 days of curfew following the golden Mosque bombing, the markets were teeming! Folks were running out of stuff! 

Over the river... 

...and through the woods... 

Almost home... 

The only Hummers badder than mine! 

I wonder if they'd let me trade my H2 for one of these? 

Neat helo take off sequence. Watch this... 

Here they goooo! 

Up... 

...up... 

...and away! 

"Sir, your taxi has arrived." 

Waiting for a flight to Taji. Chief Don Collins, Me, SMSgt. Johnnie Jackson, Capt. Jason Voorheis, and SFC Tony Segraves. 

Another helo ride. This time from Baghdad to Taji. The weather is getting better every day, which makes for some great photos! 

Saddam's parade ground. There's another set of the crossed swords gates at the far end. Sheesh! He sure wasted a lot of money on his ego!