The council chairman noted that Iraqis are working on freedom and democracy, building a country based on justice and good relations with other countries, especially those other countries that love peace.

He called on the world to unite in fighting terrorism.

"Thank you always," Al-Amidy told the Utahns.

According to Imad Al-Bayati, mayor of Hillah, Babil Province, Iraq has suffered terrorism for more than 35 years under Saddam. During that dark period, the people had great losses.

At at time when Iraq needed resources and needed to develop its science, all natural resources — including Iraq's oil reserves — were funneled into the regime's military. Meanwhile, atrocities continued, with Iraqis killed and human rights abused, he said.

Now there has been a positive change in expanding democracy, including human rights and women elected to the national assembly, Al-Bayati said. "May peace be upon you, and thank you."

Muhanned Al-Dulaymi, chairman of the Babil Human Rights Association, expressed thanks "for the warm welcome we're receiving in this beautiful state."

Iraq is going through a rebirth, he said, because "the American forces get rid of the old regime." Now they are facing the more difficult goal "to get rid of the Baath and the terrorists. . . . They don't want democracy in this area."

"We thank you so much . . . and pray for God to bless you and save your children."

Cannon thanked the Utah military members and their families for the sacrifice of their time and for their losses. "We thank you for the willingness to suffer injury and possibly death," he added. He also thanked the Iraqi delegation, saying he hoped they learned something about Utah's faith and culture, and that they knew the feelings of love Utahns have for them.

Cannon also had a message for terrorists: "We say you will lose because love is more powerful than terror."

After the session, Col. Sharon Dunbar, commander of Hill Air Force Base's 75th Air Base Wing, said it was good "to hear the heartfelt comments of the Iraqi officials, who were clearly expressing their gratitude" for America's efforts.

Those efforts, she said, are being made "to offer Iraq the opportunity to enjoy the freedoms and liberties that we enjoy in the United States."

Maj. Gen. Brian Tarbet, adjutant of the Utah National Guard, said afterward it was a wonderful program and the hard-working military members appreciate the thanks. "It was touching," he said.

The Iraqis who came here are "brave, brave men," Tarbet said. "They are targets themselves."

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E-mail: bau@desnews.com