"Two Wars, Seen Many Ways"

This photo stood out in my eyes originally because of the composition and then made me look closer at the subject matter, which adds another layer of significance. Chris Hondros’s photo from his “Conflict Zone” brings the observer into tension and distress of a warzone. This photo leaves me with questions about the school, the soldier, and the relationship between the military and the Iraqi people.

The symmetry of the photo is striking. The rectangular shapes with the centered framing made my eyes focus to the action in the photo. The elements present in the front of this classroom reflect the messages that have been sent to the students. The soldier’s weapons and uniform suggest his power and authority to remove such a powerful image from the wall. Not realizing it was Saddam Hussein until I took a closer look, did I realize how monumental this moment would have been. This mystery marine is changing how the youth in Iraq may view this once powerful leader in the future.

Although Hondros’s complete collection of “Conflict Zone” provides valuable imagery and information of the constant battle, I believe this photo can stand alone. This photo makes me curious about the situation in which this photographer caught the moment. Were any students preset? Did someone tell him to take it down or did he decide on his own? What was done with the photo after it had been removed? Which students will notice and ask questions about why the photo is gone? Hondros took the photo with so much thought and consideration and increased my curiosity about the mysteries of war.