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Former Batavia resident's book 'Shock and Alarm' is firsthand account of life at U.S. Embassy in Baghdad, will speak at HLOM

By Billie Owens

Press release:

"Shock and Alarm: What it was really like at the U.S. Embassy in Iraq?" is the title of a  book written by Hugh Iwanicki, former Batavian, son of attorney/judge Don and Corrine Iwanicki.

Hugh will be at the Holland Land Office Museum at 7 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 7th to review his book and talk about his experiences. He looks forward to meeting the people of our community and will be happy to sign books prior to and after his presentation.

This is open to everyone. There is no charge for the presentation, but donations are always welcome at the Museum. Call the museum for more information at 343-4727.

"Shock and Alarm" is a riveting behind-the-scenes exposé of daily life at the Baghdad Diplomatic Compound in 2009, providing an insightful look at the culture clash taking place between the Islamic world and the West. This is Hugh's personal story of the 11 months he served as a performance auditor for the Office of the Inspector General at the Embassy.

The book exposes the Islamist Agenda via firsthand accounts, which takes us through Hugh’s transformation from a liberal-spirited American to a man confronted by the harsh realities of the Middle East.

Hugh’s realization: From a Muslim perspective, the only way to truly “respect” Islam is to either convert to it or accept it as a superior religion by submitting to its political hegemony.

Ricky G. Hale

"accept it as a superior religion" ? Is he out of his effin mind? Who in the hell does he think he is pushing that CRAP onto us? I hope nobody shows up to listen to his CRAP. I am really surprised that the HLOM is even allowing him to make a presentation. I think the HLOM should reevaluate its agenda! This is BULL SHIT.

Oct 6, 2016, 4:07pm Permalink
Ed Hartgrove

Mr. Hale. I believe you misinterpreted the "gist" of this article.

It doesn't, in my opinion, reflect that Mr. Iwaniki is "pushing that CRAP onto us".

Did you understand the part that reads, "Hugh’s transformation from a liberal-spirited American to a man confronted by the harsh realities of the Middle East."? I think that means Mr. Iwaniki WAS a "liberal", but, is no more. "Liberals" tend to be "overly-permissive", "tolerant", and, "open-minded of even possibly destructive ways". Sort of an "Anyone can do whatever they want" type.

It also states, " Hugh’s realization: From a Muslim perspective, the only way to truly “respect” Islam is ...". He's saying, that's what the " Muslim perspective" is. Not that he believes in it.

You can do or think whatever you want about this article, Mr. Hale. But, I truly believe you "missed the mark" on what Mr. Iwaniki's thoughts are. The book title, alone, (" Shock and Alarm ...) should help with some insight, as to what it's about.

You do know what "Alarm" means, I hope.

Oct 6, 2016, 5:25pm Permalink

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