The fight for Iraq
From Wolf Blitzer
CNN
BAGHDAD, Iraq (CNN) -- Maybe one day flights to Iraq will be routine events. But that is certainly not the case now. The continuing insurgency explains why.
On a military transport plane is the head of the U.S. military's Central Command, Gen. John Abizaid. I'm traveling with him on my visit to Iraq. Security is paramount.
The troops aboard the two-hour flight from Qatar represent all four branches of the U.S. military. Several of them use the flight to catch up on a little sleep.
They are prepared for combat. And despite the fact that many of them are combat veterans -- and perhaps because of that -- they seem a bit edgy. I spot one big soldier offering a little prayer before our huge plane lands.
Baghdad is a huge and jittery city.
The spate of car bombings, rocket attacks, and improvised explosive devices has created a constant sense of fear. But the January 30 election has inspired many to think of an emerging new Iraq -- one that aspires to democracy and stability.
U.S. troops insist they're happy to be here.
"I feel good. I feel real good. It's good to be doing something for my country," Army 1st Sgt. Celeste Henderson told me.
U.S. Army Maj. Joe Giblan is a lawyer from Staten Island, New York. His decision to volunteer for active duty was personal.
"It's not as dangerous as it was on Manhattan on 9/11. I experienced that personally," Giblan says.
But during several conversations with troops, I hear repeatedly that things are getting better even if they can't easily leave their bases to drive into Baghdad or around the country. It's simply too dangerous.
