When you are living overseas, you are protected by your Embassy. Every country under the sun has an Embassy. Many of the smaller countries are clustered together on one block. The American Embassy – as part of their protection program – sends out a monthly “Warden Notice” (as if we are prisoners?). This usually goes to employers who then distribute it to their American employees. Now, these notices – which probably costs tens of thousands to produce – are basically filled with warnings. Don’t go out after dark. Travel in pairs. Don’t talk to terrorists. Stop playing with that stick or you’ll poke your eye out. Basically – “BE CAREFUL! YOU’RE IN THE MIDDLE EAST!” (and they never mention the driving…)

So, I thought I would share with you parts of this month’s notice to show our government in action.

Embassy of the United States of America
June 16, 2008

MEMORANDUM

To: All American Wardens

Travel Warning – IRAQ

This Travel Warning updates the current security situation and reiterates the
dangers of the use of civilian aircraft and of road travel within Iraq. This supersedes
the Travel Warning of July 23, 2007.

The Department of State continues to strongly warn U.S. citizens
against travel to Iraq, which remains very dangerous.…. Despite
recent improvements in the security environment, Iraq remains dangerous,
volatile and unpredictable. Attacks against military and civilian targets throughout Iraq continue,
including in the International (or “Green”) Zone. Targets include hotels, restaurants,
police stations, checkpoints, foreign diplomatic missions, and international
organizations and other locations with expatriate personnel. Such attacks can
occur at any time. Kidnappings still occur; the most recent kidnapping of an
American citizen occurred in August 2007.

What? Is there a war going on or something? John McCain said it was okay…

Be Sociable, Share!

•