Since my time in Iraq, I have noticed many instances of anti-Muslim discrimination. It was surprising to me back in 2006 and 2007, when I first returned how often we castigate all Muslims.  Rick Casey discusses a T.J. Fabby of Red Oak, near Dallas, who accuses his political opponent of accepting money from an "admitted" Muslim. Say what? Businessman Ali Sharaf has given to many Republicans. Mr. Fabby, however, sees Mr. Sharaf as the "enemy." Mr. Fabby says Rick Perry, for one, is an "enemy of the state, ours" because he accepted money from Ali Sharaf. Mr. Fabby is running for the Texas House of Representatives. See KLRN Rick Casey post. 

I disagree with Rick Perry on many issues. But, I always appreciate that he served in the U.S. Air Force. Looking at Mr. Fabby’s website, it appears that he has never served in the U.S. military. He has apparently never learned the value of serving with someone who might have a strange last name, but is rock solid when the moment counts. So, perhaps, it is not too surprising that Mr. Fabby lost his election. 

As I have mentioned on this blog, I do not understand this prevalent prejudice against Muslims. It continues to surprise me. See my prior post here. I served in Iraq with many, devout, wonderful Muslims. Some were fine, humble, very decent persons. One, my own Salma, was a pain-in-the-neck. But, none of them were terrorists. Indeed, they risked their lives and those of their families to work with U.S. forces and to improve their country. Salma, who worked for me, was kidnapped, tortured and killed, only because she worked with U.S. forces. Her brother visited her once at our base and was almost kidnapped only because he was suspected of working for U.S. forces. 

So, where do we get that all Muslims are bad? Rick Casey says its a leftover from the Crusades. I do not know. But, I know my comrades-in-arms. And, they were alright. In a combat situation, there is no higher praise.