The PUK

After the emotion of arriving in Iraq, the rest of the day was spent in meetings with local and regional government officials.

Several police escorts arrived to take us to the political offices of the PUK. The PUK is the political party currently ruling the Kurdistan region. Party Speaker Mala Baxtiar greeted each Gold Star mom individually, and then we were ushered into a very official looking conference room.

Through a translator, Speaker Baxtiar welcomed the Gold Star Moms and thanked them for the sacrifices of their children. There were also many Iraqi women in attendance, all who had suffered significant losses under Saddam’s rule. Several of the Gold Star Moms and the Iraqi women were given an opportunity to speak. The Iraqi people, especially here in Kurdistan, are so grateful for U.S. troops and the help they have provided.

After the meeting, we were taken to an elaborate lunch in the political building. The food was actually very good. Speaker Baxtier dined with us and talked with all the moms through an interpreter. After lunch we moved to another room with couches lined against the walls. Ottomans covered with plates of fresh fruits lined the center of the room. We drank very strong hot tea in small glasses, almost like shot glasses. The tea was delicious.

At one point, I happened to be at the front of the line as we were escorted through the building. A young Iraqi woman was walking with me. She spoke just enough English for me to understand that her mother, father and brother had been killed by Saddam's people. Someone explained later that’s how Saddam worked; he would leave one person alive to be a witness to his cruelty.

After lunch we finally got to rest, then had dinner with the Mayor, Police Chief and other local officials. More thank you’s and good food. Then finally more rest.

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