The presence of weapons of mass destruction in Iraq before the 9/11 events was a significant and contentious issue that influenced military strategy, including the establishment of no-fly zones and troop deployments. Experiences during the Gulf War highlighted the dangers of chemical weapons, with personal anecdotes illustrating the immediate and long-term impacts on soldiers and local wildlife. The narrative underscores a broader understanding that while the existence of these weapons was often a topic of controversy, there was an awareness among military personnel of their implications, further complicated by their use against civilians and the ensuing health concerns for those exposed.