See part one here.

After three and a half days of briefings, we were finally able to head into the field to speak to people. Yesterday, a group of us went to Balad to discuss the security situation with some of the troops stationed there. Although the security situation has surprisingly improved, we still had to wear body armor and helmets in the Blackhawk helicopters. Moreover, in addition to the pilots, there were two guards on board.

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Besides our briefings and travel, the American and British ambassadors hosted dinners and receptions for us in the evenings, which allowed us to get insights into what's happening in the country. Next week we'll leave the embassy compound and move around the country.

Here are some more...