Jaysus, folks, fire ain't ever "friendly." Casualities from what is called "friendly fire" have been going on since war began -- it's impossible in the heat of combat to distinguish friend from foe. This applies to the US, the UK, the Russians, the Iraqis, EVERYONE. When your adrenaline's up, when you hear the "CRACK" of the bullet breaking the sound barrier next to your head (and you're damned glad you heard it!), technology or a white flag ain't a-gonna save the butt of the person you think fired the round.

This is especially true if you've seen your buddies die or be wounded. It's not hate, either -- it's rage.

Remember too that when a shell or bullet is fired it's going to land *someplace*. That might be a hospital or a hotel if it misses the target.

Why all the fuss when soldiers are killed? someone asked. After all, it's their job. The same can be said of journalists, who, unlike most soldiers, put themselves in harm's way voluntarily. Or perhaps we should blame the editors or producers, who after all insist on the stories which get their reporters killed. Or people who want to see the gore and carnage in their living rooms.

Me, I'm against this war, but I support the grunts, tankers, and others (on both sides) who have been told to do the job. I pity the civilians and will send whatever comfort I can to them. Sorry, but the reporters are doing what they are paid (and told) to do.