Iraqi War Trophies...

Our stint is almost up and bag packing is eminent. Other than simple gifts, the military is admonished to leave certain things behind in Theater. Still the temptation to stash a war trophy exists...

So what happens? We face lock downs & bag checks & x-rays, metal detectors, search dogs... Whadda process!

So, I'm going to show you my collection of Iraqi momentos. I'll open my case to the court of public opinion as to what travels to America and what doesn't--You be the judge! Do you see any potential contraband... ?

#1 - Iraqi Special Ops patch... traded it with an Iraqi soldier in Area IV for my 1st Med patch.

#2 - Iraqi money, 5000, 1000, and 250 dinar bills plus a couple of coins.

#3 - Marble from Victory Over America Palace. The white piece is from the Ballroom on the third floor. The brown chunk is from the outside wall.

#4 - An Iraqi Commando 1st Battalion pin and an Iraqi Election pin.

#5 - Trick question... no #5!

#6 - A bathroom faucet knob from Radwaniyah Palace. I didn't take it from the palace but found it outside and recognized that "tire-like" pattern.

#7 - Shell casings--50 caliber, M9 and M16 rounds. Found along the SW BIAP wall.

What do you say? Can I take it home or do I leave it behind?

(7# ,6# ,3# ,2# :evaeL & 4# ,1# :ekaT)