Mark B

Here is the link to a Washington Post story It is also in Monday's Stars and Stripes on the 6th page.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/story...

It is Baghdad Nights by Sudarsan Raghavan

So, which is worse?

1. Taking a combat patrol to a nightclub

2. Buying beers at a combat patrol to a nightclub

3. Taking a Washington Post reporter on a combat patrol to a nightclub and letting her watch you buy drinks

4. Giving your full name and rank to a Washington Post reporter in a nightclub while you are on a combat patrol

Some of the highlights from the article:

"The American soldier stepped out of the Baghdad nightclub. In one hand, he clutched his weapon. In the other, a green can of Tuborg beer. He took a sip and walked over to two comrades, dressed as he was in camouflage and combat gear."

A U.S. military spokesman, responding to a query about the soldiers, was incredulous. "Just so I understand this clearly, you saw U.S. soldiers at a nightclub in downtown Baghdad outside of the Green Zone in uniform drinking and dancing?" asked Tech. Sgt. Chris Stagner.

Club manager Salah Hassan said Thursday's visit was not exceptional. "The Americans come here four or five times a week," he said. "They buy drinks and pay for them."

Others at the club said the soldiers had been there more than once. "I love the Americans," said Amal Saad, a petite young woman with blue contact lenses and thick red lipstick. "I like it when they come here. I feel so safe."

"Many times, I went with them in their Humvees," she added. "They took me to shops and bought me chocolates and gifts."

"Everyone is having a good time," said Spec. Eric Cartwright, 26, of Granada Hills, Calif