1001 Nights in Iraq

1. Trapped in Iraq: A Journey from Chicago to Captivity

"I waited patiently for the LORD; He turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire…He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God." (Ps. 40:1-3)

A fateful return. Shant Kenderian, a 17-year-old Armenian-Iraqi living in Chicago, returned to Iraq in 1980 to bid farewell to his father. This decision trapped him in Iraq for over a decade due to Saddam Hussein's war policies. Kenderian's journey highlights the unpredictable nature of life under a dictatorship:

• Forced into military service
• Witness to the Iran-Iraq War
• Caught in the invasion of Kuwait
• Unable to return to his life in America

Cultural complexity. Kenderian's story illustrates the challenges faced by individuals with multiple cultural identities. As an Armenian Christian in a predominantly Muslim country, a permanent resident of the United States, and an Iraqi citizen, he navigated complex layers of belonging and alienation throughout his ordeal.

2. Survival on the L-87: Navigating Danger and Death

"Tonight, God is here with us on the deck of the L-87."

Facing mortality. Kenderian's experience on the L-87 landing craft during the Gulf War represents a harrowing struggle for survival. The boat hit a mine, caught fire, and was repeatedly attacked by Allied forces. Key moments of danger and survival:

• Explosion killing several crew members
• Fighting fires with limited resources
• Navigating through minefields
• Enduring air attacks

Unexpected heroism. Despite being an engineer with no combat training, Kenderian played a crucial role in saving the damaged boat and his fellow crew members. His actions demonstrate how ordinary individuals can rise to extraordinary challenges in times of crisis.

3. From Enemy to Ally: Capture and Treatment by American Forces

"I was transitioning from captivity as a 'free man' besieged by the Iraqi government, to freedom under American custody."

A welcome capture. Kenderian's capture by American forces marked a turning point in his journey. Initially viewed with suspicion due to his complex background, he gradually gained the trust of his captors:

• Treated as a potential spy at first
• Used his language skills to assist as an interpreter
• Developed friendships with American soldiers
• Gained special status as a "trustee" POW

Cultural bridge. Kenderian's unique position as an American resident in Iraqi uniform allowed him to serve as a cultural intermediary between captors and captives, humanizing both sides to each other.

4. Interrogation and Isolation: The Struggle for Identity and Belief

"The truth of my strange story was the only thing I had on my side."

Proving identity. Kenderian faced intense scrutiny and disbelief from interrogators due to his unusual background. His struggle to be believed highlights the challenges faced by individuals with complex identities in times of conflict:

• Repeated interrogations questioning his story
• Isolation from other prisoners
• Psychological pressure to confess to being a spy

Inner strength. Despite the mental strain of interrogation and isolation, Kenderian maintained his integrity and faith in his own story. This unwavering belief in himself ultimately led to his story being verified and his status improved.

5. Finding Humanity in Captivity: Friendship and Love in Unlikely Places

"I was captured by a dove."

Unexpected connections. Amidst the harsh realities of war and captivity, Kenderian formed meaningful relationships that helped sustain his spirit:

• Friendship with fellow POWs
• Bonds with sympathetic American guards
• A romantic connection with Monica, an American soldier

Love transcending boundaries. The relationship between Kenderian and Monica exemplifies how human connection can flourish even in the most adverse circumstances, challenging preconceptions about enemies and allies.

6. The Power of Hope: Faith, Resilience, and the Quest for Freedom

"I read vigorously from sunrise to sunset."

Faith as anchor. Kenderian's Christian faith played a crucial role in maintaining his hope and sanity throughout his captivity:

• Reading the Bible daily
• Finding comfort in psalms and prayers
• Participating in Bible study groups with American soldiers

Perseverance. Despite numerous setbacks and uncertainties, Kenderian never lost sight of his goal to return to the United States. His resilience in the face of adversity demonstrates the power of hope in sustaining the human spirit through prolonged hardship.

7. Navigating Cultural Divides: An Armenian-Iraqi-American's Unique Perspective

"I was a man without a country, living in a pit with hostile eyes watching over me, among friends who were suspicious toward the special attention that the Americans were giving me."

Multiple identities. Kenderian's experience highlights the complexities of navigating multiple cultural identities in a conflict zone:

• Armenian Christian heritage in a Muslim-majority country
• American resident status while serving in the Iraqi military
• Straddling the line between captive and ally in American custody

Bridge-builder. His unique background allowed Kenderian to serve as a cultural interpreter, helping both Iraqis and Americans understand each other better. This role underscores the value of multicultural perspectives in fostering understanding and empathy across divides.

Last updated: November 19, 2024