Remembering: Operation Iraqi Freedom

On March 20, 2003 US and allied forces began an invasion of Iraq. Three main objectives were set for the war, the removal of Saddam Hussein from power, the confiscation of any and all biological and chemical weapons, and the installation of a free democratic society for the Iraqi people.

The invasion was highly unpopular throughout the world, and only a few countries actually helped the United States in the original fighting. Other countries would join in once the war was 'over', and help with the attempted pacification of the country. The war is estimated to have killed, or led to the deaths of over 150,000 people.

On December 18, 2011 the last US combat troops officially left Iraq. Leaving behind a nation still in pains, that hopefully will lead to growth and eventually peace.