I was wondering what we’re doing with all the surrendering Iraqis? Are we rounding them up as POWs? (Are we treating them as prisoners, or just misdirected individuals who have seen the light about the US?) And, where would we be holding all these POWs? - Jinx
We’re treating them as POW’s.
That means when they surrender they are frisked for weapons and dangerous items. Then are transported either on foot single-file with hands on head, or in small groups on vehicles, to a holding area. They are given food, water, shelter, any needed medical care, and where necessary, adequate clothing. Granted, the shelters might be only tents or awnings, but our guys are sleeping in much the same accomodations and eating very similar food. They’ll probably be held, under guard, until all hostilities cease. This isn’t to be mean to them - it’s to prevent “sleepers” or just folks who change their minds from starting trouble, attacking our guys from the rear, and so forth.
Apparently, the US military has been dropping leaflets for some time explaining how to surrender and what will happen to them afterward, and soldiers have cards written in Arabic, and with illustrations, to hand out and thereby alleviate some of the language barriers.
Also keep in mind that some of these guys might have surrendered last time, too - in which case they’re familar with the drill and likely to behave as long as they’re treated decent. Since there are reports of Iraqi soldiers without shoes, and who haven’t eaten in days, some of the surrendering might be from pure self-interest as well.
It IS a little unusual for an entire division, with commander, to surrender to another army. Not that it would break my heart if they all surrendered.