In 1991, images from Baghdad were muffled at best. On TV, U.S. citizens at home had the chance to see patriot missiles intercept scuds from the Iraqis. But 1991 had nothing on 2003, and the head of Alabama’s National Guard doesn’t know if that’s such a good thing.

During a stop in Demopolis on Monday, Maj. Gen. Mark Bowen said he isn’t sure having every second of the war aired on national TV is such a good thing.

U.S. Rep. Artur Davis, who organized and hosted Monday’s event, agreed that Americans have a different view of war in the 21st century.

Monday’s event at the National Guard Armory was a solemn vigil to the men and women serving from this area, with most commentary focused on the safe return of our soldiers. But at one point, Bowen broke up the monotony with a few flavorful remarks at anti-war demonstrators and even Saddam Hussein.

Many of the Muslims involved in the terror attacks of Sept. 11, and those who have fought against the United States believe that if they die in battle for Allah, they will go to a heaven where 50 virgins await them.

Bowen bluntly said that he hopes Saddam is "already dead."