IRAQ SPECIAL ASSIGNMENT: Wrap Up

Posted: 9:15 am CST February 9, 2004

Anchorman John Karcher and photojournalist John Wacker spent eight days in Iraq. They kept a daily online journal on Channel 3000 and sent back digital photos. Then, their packages aired on News 3 for a week-long series. You can send them a message, using our online forum here.

It's been a special time for us here at News 3 -- connecting all of you with your loved ones in Baghdad. We learned a lot from the 32nd Military Police Company in Baghdad -- the Iraqi citizens accepting help from U.S troops, the dedication of the troops, their vital mission, and how much they are loved back home.

We met Tasha Voight, a 22-years-old nursing student, now at war. We met Dane County Sheriff's Department employees at war. We met deputies from Adams County. And we met a just-named Police Officer of the Year from Fond du Lac.

During the trip, Karcher and Wacker saw many smiling faces, mugging for mom and for wives -- reaching out to say, "We're OK."

They flew over the car bombing at assassin's gate where 24 people died.

"It was horrible," Karcher said. "John Wacker and I shot the only video above the scene that day."

They saw the troops escape from war and stress when they visited Mother Teresa's Orphanage. It was a moment away from the streets and the uncertainty.

Troops faced the danger. They escaped death in Al Sha'ab, but not purple hearts.

It was a trip to a once beautiful city -- now scared. A majority of the population that welcomes the United States, their freedom and their new lives.

"We saw Iraq's future in the faces of children," Karcher said. "We felt you watching your loved ones -- your first glimpse in months. We helped a Waupun father connect. He finally learned deep details on his daughter's final day. We saw young soldiers mourn."

Members of the 32nd say it's tough being away from home. And it's tough for their families back home, too.

"We give a lot of credit to our family members who are dedicated to supporting us and still doing the daily grind," said Capt. Scott Southworth, commander of the 32nd. "They're with us every step of the way."

"Thanks to Molly Thompson, managing editor of Channel 3000, who helped connect you with loved ones," Karcher said. "Eighteen-thousand people and counting have visited the soldier's forum we set up on Channel 3000.

"And thanks to John Wacker for bringing back the sights and sounds of your neighbors, your loved ones and your national guard troops.

"Eight days with boots on the ground -- all our video stories and pictures will be on Channel 3000 for you to see."