We Meant Well (29 page)

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Copyright © 2011 by Peter Van Buren

All rights reserved.

Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data

Van Buren, Peter.

We meant well : how I helped lose the battle for the hearts and minds of the Iraqi people / Peter Van Buren.

p.   cm.

Includes bibliographical references.

ISBN 978-0-8050-9436-7

  1.  Postwar reconstruction—Iraq.   2.  Iraq War, 2003– —Public opinion.   3.  United States—Relations—Iraq.   4.  Iraq—Relations—United States.   5.  Public opinion—Iraq.   I.  Title.

DS79.769.V36 2011

956.7044'31—dc22                                       2011008821

First Edition 2011

The views expressed here are solely those of the author in his private capacity and do not in any way represent the views of the Department of State, the Department of Defense, or any other entity of the US government. The Department of State had the chance to review this book in manuscript form before publication, as required by 3 FAM 4170. The Department of State does not approve, endorse, or authorize this book.

With the exception of historical figures (e.g., President Bush, General Odierno), I have changed all names. The events depicted in this book are true, however, although some details have been changed and the timing of some events has been altered or obscured. Except as noted, I was present at any event reported on and at any conversation repeated.

Information from the SIGIR Web site is in the public domain and may be used without further permission, provided such use is not reasonably calculated to convey the impression that such use is approved, endorsed, or authorized by SIGIR. SIGIR did not approve, endorse, or authorize this book.

eISBN 978-1-4299-9523-8