The 'Eagle Times' Student Newspaper

Local man returns home from serving his country

Steve Peak shares story

By Nick Clark

February 01, 2005

People have witnessed the war in Iraq on television and in the newspaper over the past two years, but very little about the reality of the war is known.

There are few stories told by soldiers who have actually been there. The news media many times focuses on negative aspects of the war; however, according to Silver Lake community member Steve Peak, Iraqis are benefiting from U.S. involvement.

Peak has spent 33 years in the armed forces and has only been deployed one time. After recently serving a year in Iraq, Peak stated that the people of Iraq have been oppressed for decades.

“In my opinion, it’s a lot like what happened in the 1930s with Hitler and Germany. Eventually something would have to be done, and it is better to do it now instead of having to fight everything in this country. There are a lot of pros and cons, but I think it was necessary that this be done,” he said.

Peak stated that the people in Iraq were being oppressed, but now they have to worry about constant acts of terrorism from the insurgents. News reports have indicated that the Iraqis do not want U.S. soldiers there, but Peak said they are willing to support U.S. troops. However, they are afraid of the few who don’t support American presence.

“I have gotten to understand the Iraqi people a little better, and I realize that they are willing to help us. But if they show too much support, the insurgents will come and try to hurt them. They are more afraid of the insurgents than they are of anything else,” he explained.

Thanks to U.S. soldiers, the people of Iraq are experiencing some elements of life that Americans take for granted.

“Ninety-nine percent of the people are glad we are there, and they appreciate the help that we try to do. When you see communities have pure water for the first time and sewer systems, paved roads, and electricity, they appreciate what we are doing for them. It’s just the few insurgents that cause all the problems,” he commented.

The men and women of the armed forces are thought of as heroes today. However, Peak feels that he is just doing his job.

“I don’t think I’m a hero anymore than anybody else who serves today. I think it’s just something that we do that is necessary, and we can help a lot of people,” he said.

The question has been discussed of whether going to war was the right decision and that America might be better off if all military personnel were safe at home. However, if you talk to the troops, they will tell you this is something that had to be done.

“Evil is wrong no matter where it is or what’s going on. People have to stand up eventually, and I think that this is the time to stand up. We just have to stay the course,” he explained.

Peak explained that in order for social progress to be made, people have to work together, especially in this situation. All countries, and soldiers, must work together toward the goal of making Iraq a peaceful place.

“You develop a camaraderie that’s kind of hard to explain. You would do anything to help each other,” he said.

Soldiers will always miss home no matter how important the reason they’re away.

“I was glad I went; I’m glad I’m home. Hopefully we’ll make a difference in the future,” he explained.