In spite of repeated predictions from mainstream media that the elections in Iraq would likely be an utter failure, it appears that nearly 60% of eligible voters turned out.  Here's a couple of the news stories -

From Basra to Mosul, voters confound expectations   (MSN)

Iraqis vote amidst violence  (CNN)

Props to the Iraqi people.  Over 30 heroes and heroines lost their lives while exercising their new found freedoms.  If enough of their countrymen and women are willing to do the same, this experiment in democracy may yet work.  My concern with this war has been that freedom hasn't been valued enough by the Iraqis since others (our soldiers) were doing much of the dying.  Perhaps my concern is ill founded.  I hope so.  A thriving Arab democracy in the Middle East may be the best hope for eventual peace in that arena.

Thanks to all the US troops who have made this day possible.  You have my deepest admiration.