Just three words, “We Got Him” circled the globe as news of the capture of Iraq’s deposed president Saddam Hussein brought shouts of joy from millions of people around the world.

It was especially so Sunday, Dec. 14, 2003 in our own United States of America when the news broke about Saddam’s capture by the 4th Infantry Division while he was hiding in a grave-size hole six feet under a farmhouse near a village south of the dictator’s hometown. Many of our soldiers have lost their lives in their quest to stop this murderous tyrant and this was truly a great day of rejoicing by our citizens and government officials.



Florida politicians lauded the capture of Saddam.



State Senator Rod Smith echoed the sentiments of many in Florida and Jasper. “I am very pleased that this tyrant has been captured. I’m also proud of the men and women who are serving in Iraq and I know that his capture was a boost to the morale of the troops.”

Sen. Nancy Argenziano said a lot with a few words, “All our men and women in the military have just proven that they are the greatest in the world.”



State Rep. Will S. Kendrick stated that he was “very excited with the capture of Saddam Hussein and hope that we can see a more stable and Democratic Government take shape as the will of the Iraqi people will not be burdened by this ruthless dictator.



I would like to express my sincere appreciation to the 1.4 million personnel on active duty, 1.3 million ready reserves, and a special thanks to the 1,900 Florida National Guardsmen serving in Iraq. I hope that this capture will bring them a sense of accomplishment, closure, and allow for their expeditious return home.”Congressman Andrew Crenshaw, R-Jacksonville, said “We shall never forget that is the blood, sweat and sacrifice of U.S. Soldiers and their families that went into this moment and we shall never forget the jubilation at hearing Ambassador Bremer say the words, “We got him.”



Local politicians expressed the same message as the state and national legislators;

Sheriff Harrell Reid said that just watching the news coverage, “has to be a morale booster for the people. We did go over to (Iraq) to give the people a choice, and this has got to help stop some of the insurgency.”



Clerk of Court Greg Godwin said the capture of Saddam Hussein is a blessing not only to Iraq and its citizens, but also to the world community as a whole. “His capture should send a message to all others like him that terrorism of any sort is not acceptable and will not be tolerated. It is my hope that this turning point will brling unity to our country and increase support for our troops. It is my prayer that our country will be instrumental in establishment a free fair government in a region of our world that desperately needs the example of such a government.”



Supervisor of Elections Laura Dees commended the military and President Bush, “Hat’s off to our military men and to our president for staying in here!”



“Tickled to death,” was City Manager Ralph Bowers comment when asked about the capture.. ” He showed his true colors and surrendered like a coward. It’s wonderful the rest of the world got to see what he was made of,” he added.



Local citizens showed mixed feelings with the majority thrilled about Saddam’s capture.

Sheena Mitchell thanks “our troops for their hard work and endurance. Saddam’s capture made their time and effort of being over there in Iraq worth while.”



Ten-year Army veteran Brandon Greek commented, “Why Saddam? What happened to Bin Laden? That’s when the war was started, and then it all switched to Saddam Hussein. “



Greek’s wife, Robin, will be entering the Coast Guard in March. She wonders when the troops will be coming home. “I lost three of my best friends in the middle of the war.”



Hamilton County Ministerial Alliance President Jerry Thomason commented that “when I heard about it Sunday, I was pleased. Looks like what has happen is that the nation of Iraq has been freed from the clutch of fear that Saddam had over them. Now the people can know they are free. They see for the first time that he can no longer harm them.”



Angela Smith is “glad they got him. I am very proud of the troops. My ex-husband is over there and I will be glad when he gets back to the children.”



Lillian Norris said she had such mixed emotions. “I’m very happy to hear the news, but I am trusting our prayers for our young men and women to come home will be answered.”



“I think it’s fantastic,” said Eckerd’s manager Dave Sanderson. “I believe that if the situation is handled properly, and they get all the information they need to justify the war, then that’s what the military went there for in the first place.”



Betty Anderson was quick to say “I’m glad Saddam is captured. I just hope there is no one to take his place. I want the people over there to feel safe, and I feel for our troops and want them to come home.



“It’s a step in the right direction,” said Robin DeRocco. “I’m thrilled they have Saddam, but will be happier when they get Bin Laden.”