Peter Moore

October 26, 2012

I am Peter Moore, the longest held hostage in Iraq, kept captive for over 2.5 years. AMA

In April of 2007 I accepted a three month posting in Iraq working for the American IT consulting firm BearingPoint.

I arrived in Baghdad on the 2nd of April 2007 where my main job was to develop spending reports from the computer system used within the Ministry of Finance.

On the 29th of May, 2007 around one hundred Iraqi police officers from the Ministry of Interior entered the building and took away myself and four British guards.

For six months I was moved around meeting up with the British guards. In December of 2007 I was separated from the other Britons and was held with two Americans. In June of 2007 I was transported back to Baghdad and this was the last time I had contact with any of the other hostages.

In May of 2009 the number two commander of the militia (Laith Al Khazlli) was released from US custody in exchange for the bodies of two of the British guards. In September over one hundred militia were released in exchange for the body of one of the guards.

On the 30th of December 2009, 946 days (or 2 years, 7 months & 1 day) after I was captured, I was released in exchange for the militia leader Qais Al Khazlli. The last of the hostages bodies were eventually handed over in early 2012.

Ask Me Anything

Any verification of this? Just curious.

Did you ever have a chance where you considered escape?

Were you a redditor before you were held hostage?

Did you ever have an opportunity to escape? I know you said they told you they would kill you if you tried to escape, but was there any point where you considered it?

was there at any point of time they needed your help in solving IT related issues or translation in exchange for some form of civilization? By that i meant books, tv, food or a written letter to your wife.

Ok, so you were prepared to kill yourself. You must of had extreme hatred at God or the world. You had to of lost hope. That hope must of been filled with something like regret, depression, sorrow, malevolence, hatred, etc. You must of experienced some sort of post traumatic stress disorder unless you found some sort of serenity in your shackles. The question I'm getting to is: what has this taught you about life, death, yourself, empathy and so on. You must be virile or at the very least jaded by this experience. Maybe pride, the choice to not show your captors the satisfaction of defeat powered you through your ordeal?

Do you believe that your treatment as a non-military captive was different than that of captive soldiers, and if you watch Homeland, how realistic is it that a soldier could be "turned"?

why did you go on reddit to do an ama after 2.5 years

Did you get raped?

Did you have an epiphany? How much more grateful are you now that your back to your life in one piece knowing you've escaped death?

Where you deluge with questions about fixing their computers?

Did they ask you where to download porn?

How was the food?

Did they play Call of duty or any other first person military shooter?

So what's your plan now?

aside from the physical beatings, did they torture you? mentally or physically.

Do you ever feel guilty about having a militia leader, who could potentially harm more people, set free for your release?

Thoughts on Guantanamo?

This is unverified. Probably a fake.

wait, doesn't anybody have a problem with trading valuable assets for just the dead bodies of the British guards? Especially when there are live hostages out there?

What was it like to be away from reddit for so long?

What was the reaction of your loved ones when you got back.

How was the food?

What were your thoughts of Guantanamo bay before you were captured? Did this horrible event change your views of it?

Holy shit, I'm sorry this happened to you.

How have you been managing to move on and build relationships? Are you still close with family and friends? Did you ever go to therapy after?

Since you were cut off from the rest of the world since 2007. How did you react to how the world has changed with Smartphones, Obama etc

I want to know about your life now. Where are you working? What are you doing? If you have these memories that come a few times a day, do you get special treatment because of it? Do people around you at work know what happened? You really shouldn't have to work another day in your life. I am sure you are trying to just live a normal life. I wish you the best.

I know many people have brought it up in comments but would you ever seriously consider writing a book or being interviewed for one?

Also you seem very open about talking about your captivity, are there any things that you have kept only to yourself?

What do you do (now, post release) to relieve stress and relax?

What did you first do when you got out?

Do You think the trade was worth it?

Ever watched Homeland? Tv series about this situation.

Have you seen the HBO program "Homeland?" It's about a marine who gets captured in Iraq and held by terrorists for 8 years. A lot of it deals with the psychological damage of his experience.

Did you learn the language? I would think after 2.5 years you'd get it.

Do you believe your military could have tried harder to save you? Are you still enlisted? Do you think this event could've been prevented?

And I do want to commend you on everything w this and your current life :)

Have you watched Homeland?

strange question but did you ever have an awkward boner moments or were you too scared shitless to remember you had a penis?

strange question but did you ever have an awkward boner moments or were you too scared shitless to remember you had a penis?

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In all honesty, were/are you upset with your country because they did not retrieve you sooner?

In all honesty, were/are you upset with your country because they did not retrieve you sooner?

are u related to brain moore(rugby palyer)in any way? u look somewhat similar

What do you get to eat when you're abducted?

/Never had a good answer to that.

This is one of the few Amas that I have read every response. Thank for taking the time to do this. I am glad you're out and safe. Anyways, how did people treat you back home afterwards?

I am very curious how much you were offered to work 3 months in a such a dangerous war ravished country ?

I gotta ask...did you ever masturbate? Like, did you go two years without any form of sexual satisfaction?

Did you ever get to know any of your guards well?

What do you think we should do about Bob Levinson, who has been a hostage in Iran since 2007?

Have you watched the show Homeland, and if you do, do you feel offended by the show's premise? [its about how a war vet that was captured for a long time was turned and upon his return was engaged with the terrorist network that captured him]

Were you allowed to shower?

What do you think of Homeland?

Mmmmmm delicious... Custardy

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Are you sure you haven't been turned against the US?

When you realized you were going back home, what was on the top of your list of things to do? Example: hug your parents, eat a burger, have a beer, etc.

did you get the stockholm syndrome? and if yes; tell me how it felt to leave.

Did you ever see or hear about any of the other Iraq War prisoners like SPC Altaie?

What was it like trying to use the toilet when your in chains and blind folded. Also we're you handcuffed behind your back? My experience with handcuffs were very unpleasant and I couldn't imagine being held that way for a whole year. Glad your back

Well brittney spears was probably showing her crotch that news day.

Is your name actually Brody?

Not sure if this has been asked. Was there any language barrier and if so what was the process to overcome it?

We're you tortured or sexually abused there?

The injustice and horror of this is so insanely immense, there are no words to express it. Most of us here cannot even begin to try understand what you went through. I don't think I would have kept any semblence of sanity. For what it is worth, I am so sorry you had to go through that.

What would you have us, ordinary armchair warriors, everyday people, take from your ordeal? If there was something you learned and gained that you would have us absorb, what would it be?

Are you American? if so I thought we didn't make deals with terrorist.

wait , what is the difference ?

Can I write a song about you?

Do you ever see someone and for a split second think, that was my captor.

Do you ever see someone and for a split second think, that was my captor.

Was there anyone that you got to know and possibly think about still?

Did you ever wonder what your family thought when you didn't return? Did you ever consider breaking free?

Was there anyone that you got to know and possibly think about still?

So did the government / military know you were being held captive for the whole 2.5 years? If so, why the fuck did it take them so long to get you back?

Bit of a morbid question for you but if you were going to be captured again and possibly held for another 2 years, would your resolve be as strong? Would you attempt escape or give up? What would you do differently?

Basically what if your story had a really shitty sequel?

Bit of a morbid question for you but if you were going to be captured again and possibly held for another 2 years, would your resolve be as strong? Would you attempt escape or give up? What would you do differently?

Basically what if your story had a really shitty sequel?

You said you were riding by motorcycle across the country,

curious, what motorcycle have you got? I love riding my bikes. :) anything with a motor, really.

Wow thats a good sized touring bike for sure! Probably pretty comfy for long distances. I love multi-purpose bikes and have got a honda crf-230L, its like a dirt bike meant for street riding as well. Love it.

Very powerful stuff. Welcome back first off. Glad to hear you got back mostly whole. I am just wondering what you think of the overall war?

I read this realizing the things in my life I'm preoccupied with or stressed about are completely insignificant. You are a true hero and inspiration. I wish you well Mr. Moore. If you ever find yourself in Chicago cruising your motorcycle PM me, I'd be honored to ride with you.

How did you use the restroom? (Especially for the two years when you couldn't stand?)

This is a true AMA. Answers every question, and for the most part, every reply.

Mr. Moore, I wish you the best of luck in your future endeavors and am sorry you had to go through this terrible, terrible suffering.

The only question I have that I haven't seen on here yet is, if it isn't too far; why do you think they didn't kill you? You said that they did 'Mock' executions, but never actually attempted to kill you?

Edit: wording

Did any of your captors speak english or did they have a translator or something? If not, would you say english things to them in hopes they did not understand? And also if not, how did you communicate? But if so, were you able to have decent conversation or was it mainly just basic communicating?

Would you ever go back to Iraq, if given the chance in the future?

Do you have any political ideas on how the US and the UK should handle the rest of the Afghanistan occupation? Or about handling the Middle East in general, Iran, Libya, ect.

Are you talking about Black Water when you say NGO?

I'm obviously late to the party but does your username have any significance or is it just a random name throwaway?

In U.S. they use music torture for POIs

did they use anything similar to that to you?

If you ever got the chance to talk to some of your captors who would it be and what would you say?

Have you tried any drugs to help with the post traumatic stress disorder, like marijuana?

Not sure if you will see this out not, but have you ever seen the tv show Homeland? Based off of a marine being captured for 8 years and he was "turned ." Pretty amazing show.

Also, thank you for your service and being home safe.

Apart from all the bad things about this whole ordeal, can you say that you got anything positive out of the whole experience?

Are you part of the massive psyop/propaganda campaign Al-Qaeda/ Taliban?

how was the food

i bet your shit was totally gross

What are your thoughts on Justin Beiber? How did your first shower feel after getting set free? And don't answer this if it's too painful to remember but how did you get captured?

And btw you are a frickin awesome person

Oh well glad your back and yeah... Youll find out about Justin Beiber soon enough

This is going to seem like a stupid question, but I'm actually really curious; did you learn any new words?

I've always wondered if a man in captivity would bother to try and understand his captors' languages, or would be so irritated with his situation that he wouldn't even bother.

Custardy

Well I was handed over to the British embassy in Baghdad, the very first thing I saw on tv was Lady Gaga - I did not know what this was about :-) It was very strange seeing myself on all the news channels.

Seeing yourself on the news everywhere, what had you felt, and what was your outlook on being freed? And in the 24 hours after, would you care to give any advice to the 17 year old you? note: I'm wondering because I am 17.

Tell me more about the US custardy, sounds delicious!:)

Might be late to the show but a family friend of mine is going to the middle east for a similar job as you. Any advice I should let him know before he leaves?

What is your opinion of the western world's (US and UK specifically) involvement in the middle east? Do you think any good can come from our presence there?

Why did they take you?

Do you have trouble sleeping due to nightmares/flashbacks?

How are you mate? And in who or whose you thinking during that time?

Did you recieve any civilian CAC training?? (conduct after capture). Did your company offer it to their employees working in high-risk areas?

Have you eer been involved with CAC training of any kind after you were released (as a speaker maybe?). If yes, do you feel CAC would have helped you alot during your captivity??

thnx for answering!

Thank you for doing this AMA.

I assume that even getting to watch Oprah, you missed out on a lot of technological developments and current events. What were the big innovations or news items that surprised or baffled you the most when you were released? We're there things you thought would happen that didn't, or vice versa?

Do you know what the first movie you saw on release was?

I am glad that you made it safe home! Unreal.

Can you be a little more descriptive of the guys that held you hostage?

How did they differ from each other?

Oh shit, I remember following this on the news. I always wondered what happened to you! No question, but glad you got out, hope the rest of your life makes up for this

My question is, what age group were your captors? Did any of them seem educated enough to have an intelligent conversation? (I know education in Iraq is free so there's either very educated citizens or the ones that "didn't quite cut it"). What types of questions did they ask of you as far as their curiosities of the Western world? Lastly, knowing all this, would you ever step foot in Iraq again, and if yes, under what conditions?

Thanks for this AMA, you're an inspiration to us all I promise you.

What was your first reaction to seeing things after the first year blindfolded?

Everyone is asking about what your time over there was like; but I'm curious, what's your life like back here, stateside?

First, I have to say that I'm glad you're safe and free; no one should have to go through what you did.

Earlier you mentioned that, since your release, you work much less and vacation more. I want to ask, is there some deep thought about the meaning of life behind the way you now prioritize your time? If so, can you speak about this?

On the other hand, if there is no complex analysis of life behind it, what is motivating the change in how you spend your time?

Did you have any contact with the outside world during your 2.5 years in captivity?

What was the first thing that caught you off guard about 2012 post release (ie. new technologies, etc)?

What's your favourite colour?

Have you ever read the Count of Monte Cristo?

How are you today?

did you hurt anybody while being held?

did you hurt anybody while being held?

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If there was anything you wish the general public could know about your captors (or their ideals, not necessarily their individual traits), what would it be?

What is your views on the current political turmoils in the middle east? Should the US and Britain be removing their troops?

Thank you very much for the AMA

During those year did the hostage house you were in have mirrors available to you? If not, how strange was it seeing yourself for the first time after those years?

I'm sorry that Reddit is full of idiots. I was aware that you asked for proof earlier, and I certainly was not expecting my suggestion that people upvote the thread with proof in it to result in you getting downvoted. If I could send all the upvotes I got in my post over to you, I would. So stupid.

How did the process of going to the bathroom go? Did they make you just sit in it?

Don't know if you'll get this or believe me... Anyway, I was bdoc for SF in Al basrah 08-09. We did a lot of snatch and grabs and were always on the lookout for you guys. They told us some brits and a us national were snatched, and when they died they shut off the phones and internet on the base, to prevent friends from calling home. You weren't forgotten, and I'm glad you're home safe!

May I ask what it was you considered?

May I ask what it was you considered?

Based on your experience, where do you stand when it comes to war and occupying other countries?

Did you ever do anything just to convince yourself that you weren't completely at their mercy?

I think you've answered more questions than any AMA I've ever seen.

So here's mine even though I would totally understand if you've had enough :)

Were you left with any phobias? Any you managed to overcome? Any still remaining?

Also, how does it go when you meet new people. Can you ever not mention the whole hostage thing at all or do most people eventually google you, or someone tells them and they find out? Does it bother you and does it change the way they treat you?

Have a great time in your motorcycle journey and stay safe!

Can't believe I haven't heard about this, you are definitely a brave man for going through what you did. My question revolves around how your family acted during this ordeal, did they know you were alive and being held hostage? What were their thoughts on the govt retrieving dead bodies before you?

Sorry if this has been asked before, but what was the first thing you did when you came home, not comming to the embassy or such but when you actually came to your home? Also, you should've went iron man style and build yourself a suit :p just kidding.

Hi Peter, you may or may not remember me but I was a Peace Corps volunteer during your time Guyana. I worked at NCERD with Dan from your group. Have been following your story for years and glad you made it out okay. -Jeremy

What was your first day in chains like?

I am sorry that happened to you...I couldn't imagine the horrors that were swirling around in your head during all that.

Did this experience change your views on racism in any way?

What I mean is, all the lefties try to destroy sensible white people for saying we need to be seperated from these people...But having been through what you were, wasn't there some time in those 3 years that you could really see, probably more clearly than most ever will, the TRUE effects of mixing cultures and race?

What would be your advice to people who have built prisons around themselves, particularly people who have psychological issues that they can't seem to get out of, but have not experienced anything like the hellish ordeal you've been through?

Additionally, I'd just like to state that I'm glad you survived and I wish you a very long, prosperous, happy life, and I don't just mean normal happy, I mean an amazingly insane amount of happiness!

Did your captors ask you to provide any IT support? Like unfreeze the laptop, set up the wifi, that sort of thing?

Is there anybody, group, organisation, or government that you blame for your delayed release?

For example, the release of Sheikh Qais was delayed by the Americans, if I understand correctly. According to a Guardian article "The British government has been repeatedly criticised for its hands-off role in the hostage negotiations – it had aimed not to legitimise hostage-taking as a political tactic in Iraq."

Whether you recognise it yourself or not, you've demonstrated a strength of will which few people could display given the circumstances; you'll savour freedom far more than anyone else.

Would you have liked to see more British/American intervention? Thanks for answering my question.

Anything that verifies who you are?

Are you now a terrorist like in that Documentary "Homeland"?

Have you been turned?

What feelings gushed through your mind while getting rounded with the British guard and being taken by the police?

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Are you going to write a book/ebook about it? You should!

I don't really understand why you got captured and held and what happened. Could you please elaborate on that? Did they think you were someone else? Who specifically captured and held you? What reasons did they have to keep you hostage?

Did you learn any Arabic?

Do you support ur government negotiating with terrorist???

Last i heard from them was that THEY DON'T...

Also do you think they are hypocrites??

Whats your favorite movie that you've seen since your release?

Trying to lighten up the ama a little bit.

No disrespect intended, but I'm sure one of the poor bastards held at Abu Graib without charges was probably held captive longer than you.

1) So everyone in the British party died but you?

2) How were they killed?

3) What of the two Americans?

4) Did you get paid for your inconvenience?

5) Have to ask for proof as well if you don't mind.

Do you still have the halo 2 tattoo or did you get that removed?

Is the show Homeland relate-able?

You know. You were kidnapped on my 15th birthday. Not trying to be a dick, just pointing it out. My question is, did you know before you went over there that there was a risk? Or were you told that your position there would be relatively safe?

1) What were the conditions like?

2) Were you tortured or forced to do certain things for them?

3) As a hostage, what did you do with your time?

What kind of daily routines did you have during the time you were blindfolded?

Could you run me through your last day of being a hostage ? And when / how did you know when you were going to be released

Are you okay?

I'm glad to hear that.

Thank you for answering.

Best wishes to you.

Do you have any verification? See the sidebar for more information.

What kind of hobbies do you have?

I'm a little late to this, but according to Muslim law, if a prisoner of war teaches 10 illiterate Muslims to read and write they shall be set free, were you aware of this/would they have allowed this?

Have you been to California on your bike trip yet? What kind of motorcycle are you riding?

Do you have any sort of a humorous attitude towards it both when you were captured and now that you have been released? I know some people will use humor as a way to cope with things.

Hi Peter,

Thanks for taking the time to answer so many questions (including repeats!). I think I’ve read this entire thread and have a few more questions, if you are sticking around on Reddit for a bit.

1. You mention here http://www.channel4.com/news/exclusive-released-iraq-hostage-peter-moores-first-account that your main concern is suppressed anger. How have you dealt with that?

2. Your stepmother mentions that they became close to the families of some of the victims. Are you also in touch with them, and do you find that difficult? I imagine there must be some aspect of guilt that you survived when they did not.

3. Can you think of any hypothetical situation in which this would not have happened? And what are your views on the future of Iraq?

4. I see that Terry Waite commented on your release but did any former hostages contact you directly? Could you see yourself contacting released hostages in the future, or do you feel it’s just best to move on with your life and not read about such instances?

5. When you were released, you were cracking jokes on the phone. How did you think you were able to maintain a sense of humour?

6. Got any other motorbikes?

7. Did any of the pillows get the job?

Kudos on making your appreciation of your stepdad known to him – I’ve been there too. Teenagers are awful.

Thank you, and enjoy your travels.

sorry if this is late or if i didn't see the response before - i read quite a few posts but was unable to find this answered.

since you received your salary for the years you were held captive (which i'm sure is nice but not enough to retire on) what are your plans for the future? will you continue in your field or are you planning on doing something like write a book etc? thanks for doing this. i admire your mental strength.

are you going to write a book about this experience?

I attempted to identify you through DNA remains about a half dozen times in one of the downrange laboratories. During captivity did you ever intentionally leave behind evidence of your stay, whether it be biological or otherwise?

How do you feel about governments negotiating with kidnappers to get your/others release? I was slightly surprised to read that bodies were exchanged for militia; while it would be a comfort for the families, it seems they have been rewarded for killing someone, whereas a dead hostage should surely lose all value in negotiations...

Had you ever received any training on how to deal with such situations? Anything like a civilian version of SERE school prior to being assigned there?

I know you said that you thought you were going to die every day, but what did you think the first time you thought you would be executed or the most significant time(when they blindfolded you and shot a gun behind you). Did you think of your family? Were you in a rage? Did you try to beg your captors? I hope this isn't prying and I don't mean to be sadistic at all, I'm just curious as to the perspective of someone that genuinely thought they were going to die for sure.

Amazing..Welcome back. Pretty pathetic you didn't get any compensation though.

Have you plotted your revenge? Is there some diabolical plan in the works that you will enact on your captors? Do you ever want to go back and make them suffer?

I'm so happy you are back! If you are ever in Chicago please PM me I'd live to show you around the city if you've never been here!

Sorry just saw this, are you still in the area? :)

what have been the biggest challenges since you have come home.

Hey mate,

I seem to have missed this by a few hours, but thank you for the fascinating insights. I'm glad you're back safe.

On the off chance you're still reading the questions, I was wondering:

Are you back in Lincolnshire? If so, do you feel like things have changed? Many people that have been away from home for long often comment that they feel their home hasn't changed, but they have - can you relate with this, or do you feel differently?

And finally, what are your aspirations now that you're a free man again?

I wish you all the best

would you ever go back to Iran to visit if the government shifted towards a more moderate one ?

Often, when people have a problem or have gone through some sort of ordeal, it can be very helpful to talk to someone about it. Has answering questions and talking about what you went through with reddit helped you?

Were you turned?

Did you fap?

Did you have any sexual experiences? Did you masturbate at all? 2.5 years is a long time...

Were there any times when you saw or heard a military patrol go by the location you were held at?

Do you know where in baghdad you were being held?

Were the captures Shia?

Any talk from them of their life situations concerning the war, their everyday lives, why their job was guarding you, what else they'd be doing if they weren't there with you?

Did you receive any kind of survival evasion resistance escape (SERE) training prior to starting the job?

Did they torture you for information, and if so, did you just feed them bullshit to make them feel they were getting something?

Sorry for the big post. I'm a former US Army Soldier, and I can say that I am very humbled to have read all of your responses in your AMA. Thank you very much for doing this. I was posted out on the karrada peninsula when Altae was taken when he left the green zone to visit his wife. Had lots of time to think about what happened with him. I really can't say what I would have or would not have done. All I can say is I'm glad I never had to find out, and I'm glad you made it out. You are a hero, truly a hero.

So much for the "America doesn't negotiate with terrorists" plot lines in movies. Wow. Glad your back. Cheers.

How does it feel to have been taken hostage because of your need for more money in a land we have no business being in? Do you still think we are justified in taking over Iraq and are you regretful that you placed yourself in a very dangerous situation for the sole purpose of making money?

custardy

Damn. I can't believe that happened to you. When you came back, how did everyone react? Did your family know you were being held hostage?

Are you married to a beautiful short-haired brunette and are considering a run for political office after turning on your co-conspirator sniper Corps-mate?

What was the most surprising aspect of captivity? Least surprising? Does modern media accurately portray what being held hostage is like? Also, what was the most interesting thing to see in society once you were freed?

Lastly, good to hear you left O.K.

I'm reading this as I literally stand in line at the New Jersey Deparment of Motor Vehicles (DMV) waiting to get a new driver's license.

At one point I thought to compare myself to you. Then I thought, fuck me.

Glad you're home, mate. Enjoy a Sunday roast everyday.

Also, what IT work did you do? I'm surprised that hasn't been asked on here yet.

Also, I just turned down a job with KPMG (from which BP spun out and died as you know).

If this AMA is still going on, you said the last year you had a play station. Why did they give you one? To my knowledge such things are pretty rare over there. Sorry if someone already asked this and I didn't see it.

I followed your plight on the news, no questions, just wanted to say well done for making it though and welcome home!!

Were the British also held in custardy, or were they kept in more of a Creme Anglais?

Did you believe in God when you were taken, and if so did this experience help or harm your beliefs? When you got home did most of your friends/family think you were dead or was there a way to communicate with them that you were alive?

How do you feel about paying ransom or fulfilling hostage-takers' demands, and do you feel this encourages more piracy/hostage-taking/evil?

What do you feel the effect of your ordeal and its conclusion had on the wider conflict?

Did the thought ever cross your mind to build a metal weaponized suit, blow them up, and fly out of there?

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Sorry if this has been asked and answered already, but how did your family and friends react to this. How much information about your situation reached back home during your time as a prisoner? How have things changed with you and your family and friends since your release? This is an incredible story, I hope you, your family and friends can truly live the rest of your lives happy and in peace.

how was the food?

how was the food?

Did you acquire respect for your jailers? If so do you now think it was a genuine respect or a mechanism to coupe ie Stockholm syndrome etc?

Is custardy as delicious as real custard?

Do you suffer from anything such as PTSD? If you go out now do you always tend to let someone know where you are or heading to? How did it feel sleeping in your own bed again?

I can't express how much reading through here has put the little things in life in to perspective. Thank you so much for taking the time to answer everyone's questions with the chance things may be brought up that you wish not to relive. Good luck with the future!

In captivity, did they ever let you have fesanjun? What about tadiq?

sorry to hear what you had to go trough, so does homeland seem realistic to you? And why did they exchange the bodies of dead people before you??

I have seen a 30 second clip of where he is at a party and goes out and shoots deer. It made me feel sick, so I have never watched any more

Why did they finally release you? And did they make you give out information that you knew about the army? And has this whole experience make you value life more now? Like what do you do now?

Have you ever seen the movie Iron Man?

do you have a taste for revenge after this ?

Did you ever find yourself just not caring anymore and thinking all sorts of weird things were funny?

[deleted]

what clothes did they have you wear were they normal like jeans t shirt or their style of clothing?

Having being held captive for so long and fearing for your life everyday during the captivity do you think this has maybe changed you as a person? Was your character a little different before the captivity?

How has your life been since you returned? Have you met a woman and gotten married? Do you feel your life will ever have a sense of normality to it?

Am hoping you live happily ever after Mr.Moore, no-one on this earth deserves it more I think.

Did you ever try to show sympathy for their cause to gain better treatment? Ever try to "convert" to Islam?

What was it like working with Claire Danes?

Who are you voting for?

What if you met your captors again? Just hypothetically, would you talk to them? If yes, what would you say?

What persuaded you to do this AMA? Also, what was the firs thing you did once you got back home?

Thank you for your service. I can't imagine going through that.

Are you satisfied with VA healthcare? I'm not....

Do you feel that you've had a worse experience than the hundreds of Guantanamo inmates who have now been held hostage for over a decade now?

Do you feel things may have been different for Sega if you had stayed a little bit longer before moving to EA?

Did the military have a good idea where you were being held hostage at any given time? If so, do you know if they had a spec ops team observing areas to find you and rescue you?

I hope this doesn't offend you because I respect ya.. In your day to day life, how many times have people(relative/friends) cracked jokes about your captivity? Jokes that made everyone including you laugh? I ask this because in my life, I sometimes find that humor brings light to the darkest places.

Did the military have a good idea where you were being held hostage at any given time? If so, do you know if they had a spec ops team observing areas to find you and rescue you?

Since your release, have you taken up hiking or something similar?

I just think if I was held captive in a small room, and released, I would want to see something like the grand canyon just to confirm that I'm not held prisoner.

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What was the first thing that you did upon returning home? The one thing you wanted to do?

Glad you're back.

Any specific shoes?

Please explain this to me.

Iraqi police officers (us allies) took you hostage? How does that shit work?

What was the first thing you did when you got home?

I'd imagine that first poop on your own toilet felt awesome.

whow, its kinda strange that i am one of the first to ask this, what do you think about the war. and if there is another one would you go again?

I guess this is kind of a belated welcome back but glad you're here.

Were you in any way prepared for this? The only book about a hostage situation I've read was Michael Durant's "In The Company Of Heroes"...not nearly as long as your story but he was one of the only ones they bothered to take alive.

How was your relationship with your fellow prisoners? Was any kind of military structure followed? As a civilian, did you take part in it?

Did you receive any kind of compensation, benefits or at least get paid over time when you got back?

Bizarre question but… did past beheadings of hostages in Iraq ever cross your mind? I think I'd be paranoid about this.

Did you ever change clothes?

About the PlayStation, did you get stuck with the shitty controller?

Did they ever put you in a situation where you had to translate for them?

Hi, is there some reason you gave yourself the username: bd504840? And in case you haven't answered this already, would you consider going back to Iraq?

How did you please yourself sexually during this period ?

Hi Peter, i'm glad you are back you seem like a very nice guy I hope things are ok now :) . I got one question, since you came back, have you ever felt/wanted some kind of "revenge" on those who kidnapped you ?

This may sound strange, but how was the atmosphere on the day you left? I can only assume you made SOME sort of relationship with your captors, as you've explained some of them were keen to be fair to you etc. what were your/their emotions like on the day you were released? Did they give you a handshake and parting words? Did you lash out in anger once you were freed by their clutch?

were you harassed?

Did you ever fight back against your captors?

What did you miss the most about civilized life here compared to life there/standards?

You said in "return for their bodies", meaning they were dead? Do you know of a reason why you weren't?

I don't know if you're still doing this, or you've already answered it, but did you get times to jerk off at all?

How often did you think about trying to escape?

If you ride your bike through Philly, let me know and my fiancée and I will take you out to dinner

Were they really worth who they got traded for?

Hey at least it helped you out.

Do you currently have symptoms of PTSD, flashbacks? Were you ever raped?

What were the most suprising changes after not seeing the western world in over 2 years?

Do you watch Homeland?

Other than talking to your pillow and making metro stations on your wall, what memories kept you focused on survival.

Is there anything that you do differently now in your life other than work. I.E. Visit relatives more often or anything?

people like you/situations like this are what keep me going in life. I'm going through a pretty rough patch in my life and I just want this year to be over with and I feel like it will never end. Then I see people like you who survived over two years being held fucking captive and I just think, well shit. I can make it through this.

Wow, it gets deeper... according to this guardian article Peter was just about to put a system online that would account for Iraqi oil revenues putting a stop to much corruption and skimming ($18 billion in Iraqi corruption, estimated.):

The computer system Peter Moore was in the process of implementing, known as the Iraq financial management information system, was nearly complete and about to go online.

Vance Jochim, who was the chief auditor and a US adviser for the Commission of Public Integrity based at the US embassy in Baghdad, said: "The new system would provide more transparency and accountability over the oil and other revenue handled by the finance ministry" – which he said had been resisting its implementation for nearly two years.

Judge al-Rahdi said: "The ministry of finance was the centre for the tracking system. It was linked to 11 other ministries. They started using the program for a few months, but after the kidnapping of Peter Moore the ministry of finance immediately stopped the system. As a result all the other Iraqi ministries were not able to keep the program going."

Eight months after the kidnappings, the only other location with a full record of the Iraqi government's financial transactions and records of possible financial misconduct – Iraq's Central Bank – was destroyed in a fire. The subsequent investigation found that it was arson.

The intelligence source said: "Many people don't want a high level of corruption to be revealed. Remember this is the information technology centre, this is the place where all the money to do with Iraq and all Iraq's financial matters are housed. The centre is linked to the Americans and all the money transfers. Everything, right down to the last penny, is in that centre."

Vance says the track record of those involved in helping to find Iraq's missing millions is not a good one. The woman who invented the automated computer tracking system that Moore and the others were sent to install and teach left the country without notice, because people had begun asking about her at the ministry of finance and her security firm, Kroll, believed she was on the list for attack.

Dude I feel for you, you were just trying to do your job and found yourself right in the middle of international war, governmental corruption and criminal syndicates. What's the moral here; be careful who you work for?

Would you mind elaborating on a few things.

I'm curious to know a bit more about the 2009 friendship with the militia major.

I'm curious to know more about how you found out about the others that were killed and any situations that surrounded that? How was it played.. how did you find out?

When they took the chains off.. do you literally mean they hadn't been off for a year? Were your wrists rubbed raw? Were you strapped to the wall? Were they like the ball and chain kind of deal or normal handcuff like chains?

How did they treat you most of the time?

What kind of conversations took place between you and your captors?

Who have you talked to and met with since your release? Did you meet the president.. head of CIA.. operations.. etc..?

Have you gained anything from this? Do you see it as mostly negative or mostly positive?

Thank you again for taking the time to answer my questions. If you ever write a book I would be willing to proof read and help promote it without any compensation.. have you ever considered writing a book about your experiences? I imagine you could get a pretty good publishing deal without even trying very hard since you have such a unique story? Have you thought about running for president like McCain?

You are a better man than all of us. I would have cracked and done something rash after like a couple days.

I feel honored that you responded. How many seconds did it take for you to realize you were still alive? Was it as soon as you heard them talking again and recognized some voices?

Do you know what the point of this fake execution was supposed to be? To remind you that they could totally kill you at any point, or... what? It was obviously for your benefit, but I can't see the reasons behind it.

I'll just try to go to sleep without thinking about socioeconomic reasons for terrorism, kidnapping, and torture. I sincerely hope you are able to do the same, brother. I'm pretty sure I don't really know what I'm talking about, but I hope my heart is in the right place, which is, I guess, the most anyone can possibly hope for.

I really hope your life now is as good as it can be. peace yo :D

Former human rights worker here. Two main motives for mock executions. 1) psychological torture often to destroy people mentally, not just extract info 2) hostage takers get bored and do it for their own amusement. I used to read accounts like Peter's all the time. Prisoner thinks he's dead. Realises he's alive when he hears captors laughing. Fuckers.

lol so you finally did it! (posted to /r/talesfromtechsupport, apparently i suggested it when you did the AMA months ago, now i'm getting emails from random redditors about the suggestion) anyway i'm hoping they make you basically the king there, as i'm pretty sure no one will be able to even come close to your story. one random internet dude to another, i really hope you have some true peace in your life now, as you seriously deserve it.

wow, i'm amazed and so pleased! my suggestion was half-joking, but obviously, we in the redditsphere live in the best of all possible worlds. i am so glad that you survived - i'm not even sure how to say so to someone who lived through such a uh reallyreallyreallyshitty experience, but man, your IAMA was absolutely amazing - even humbling, i'd say. please, never stop spreading your journalistic accounts!

Erm... i'm really really drunk so please forgive any grammatical errors... i feel incredibly honored that you responded!

I just came to this thread from TTFS. This is a great AMA, thanks a lot for doing it. Not many people are ready to openly speak about experiences like this, much less answer nearly every question, and even more less the kind of questions Reddit can come up with.

I just came to this thread from TTFS. This is a great AMA, thanks a lot for doing it. Not many people are ready to openly speak about experiences like this, much less answer nearly every question, and even more less the kind of questions Reddit can come up with.

I don't mean to question what happened, but did you consider that they might not have been killed? I don't know the circumstances or details, of course, but it's always possible they just wanted to scare you.

Did they see the irony of watching that particular show, at all, do you think?

what I mean is did you feel that some of them where good people, or did you think they where all bad.

You say "they wanted to know about us", Did you find that their view was twisted, or did they have a general understanding? Also you say you learned about islam, did you ever hear they're views on other religiones?

prison break (which annoyed me)

I am so sorry, but I can't stop laughing at this. I think it's amazing how they did not managed to break your spirit.

What about the wedding ring? Didn't they notice?

What about not wearing a wedding band?

It's probity a good thing you didn't have a wife, Imagine coming back home to a wife that's cheated on you from your absence.

Well obviously, but these people actually believe that a captured prisoner is making these statements against his government/cause? Would we believe shit like this wasn't coerced if our governments started disseminating similar statements from captured terrorists?

I asked for certain foods and certain types of toothpaste

Interesting. I was going to ask: were you allowed brush your teeth twice a day? Floss? Any oral problems? -- apart from the tooth you lost due to the AK47, obviously!

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did you ever see conflicts between the captors?

have you ever met anone else that had been in a similar situation? It seems like this is one of those things that absolutely no one can understand unless they have been in it.

brody was there for 8 years

What are your feelings towards the native Iraqis now? That's not me asking "are you now a racist" you've been through hell. I would be surprised if you weren't wary of them.

Do you feel resentment towards all of them? Or just your captors? Do you get scared by Muslims in the UK?

It's fantastic that you're back man. I remember reading your name in the Guardian.

I'm actually more curious about what happened after you got back.

Did the time away from your job hurt your employment prospects? How did your old contracting firm act throughout the situation? Did the IRS go after you for not paying taxes while kidnapped? Any arrest warrants for missing jury summons/etc? Did your insurance company actually cover the costs of your recovery (seeing how you weren't technically working 40 hours or more a week during your kidnapping and therefore were not a full time employee)? What happened to your mortgage? Credit score?

So many militiamen and leaders being released for bodies of guards must not be public news. As far as I know the policy was "we don't negotiate with terrorists".

Was your family scared? Did you ever get to contact them over Skype or another platform? This is so sad :( I hope all is okay for you.

How did you feel every morning when you woke up and realize where you are and reality comes back?

Did you use to have dreams where you where away or free? Or where you kidnapped in the dreams too?

And how did you feel when you were waking up after dreaming you had escaped?

Many years ago, I saw a play entitled "Someone Who'll Watch Over Me", about three men held hostage in Lebanon under much better conditions than yours. Have you seen it? If so, what effect did it have on you? Have you had any post-release experiences that significantly lightened your load? Here is a link to one production of the play. http://www.oakpark.com/News/Articles/10-9-2012/A_haunting,_yet_funny,_hostage_situation

Is doing this AMA a positive thing...as in getting things off your chest, etc?

did they kill people in front of you?

How did they tell you that you were to be released? How did that moment feel?

What did they do to you. I'm sorry if this is a personal question and you don't want to answer

If any, what moments of laughter did you experience, e.g. while watching TV or playing playstation with your guards or the families you lived with? Any "normal" situations that evolved out of a habit of somehow getting along with the few people that were there?

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Now that you are free..what are your future plans and are you still employed with bearing point?

I have to say my friend, I just about read almost every comment that you answered. And I must say, you have given me great inspiration. You are a true hero! The fact that you are so calm about it as well," is even more inspiring. I thank you for your words, and very glad you made it out alive. My question is, have you been able to get back into the swing of things, of civilian life, like did you ever find the women you imagined? Or something other.

Did the US government ever check if "they" had turned you?

Did you ever fear for your head?

so they torture u but gave u a ps3 to play with? im confused

Did you feel vengeful after being released? Angry?

I am just glad you made it out ok, all things considered, and thank you for doing this AMA.

You, sir, are the bravest sonofabitch ever.

Now that you are home, I am curious, do you suffer from agoraphobia at all? Do you ever want to return to that region of the world? What is on your bucket list? (if you are ever in PA, not only will I happily make you garlic bread, but cookies. lots and lots of cookies.)

What do you think about the US engaging in torture? Do you think gitmo should be closed?

Were you ever able to wash or be washed over the 2.5 years? If not how was this (I know it was probably the least of your worries, but I'm still interested!).

Is there a reason you were captured? What use would an Iraqi militia have for an accountant?

What are your life goals now and are they different from before you got captured?

Do you think you're better at waiting patiently for things now having been forced to do so for two years, or does it bring back painful memories?

I was under the impression the US army controlled the Iraqi police force, were they all crooked cops? How does Britain stand for this?

After your experience, what is your current view on what is happening in Abu Ghraib ?

Being chained a room, with the same sounds, the same walls, the same everything day after day minute after minute... were you ever close to cracking? did you consider escaping though you knew if caught, you were dead?

Were there any surprising things about the progression of technology and the changes to society you discovered after returning home?

How did you deal with your urges to masturbate or did you have to do it in secret...i know it seems silly but as a guy i need to know in case i ever get taken hostage

What was the biggest overall cultural or societal chance you noticed when you returned to society?

This may sound bad.. but did you ever contemplate suicide or deep down did you know you were going to be set free?

Have you sought professional therapy? How do you feel as a person now in terms of stability? I read in here that you think about your capture at least once a day. How much does this interfere with your day-to-day life?

I couldn't even imagine having 2 years and 7 months just taken away. How does it feel knowing you can never have that time back? If you weren't captured, what do you think you would be doing now?

in case you seen the tv series Homeland , what do you think of it and would you betray the US (more the people responsible for warcrimes ) if you were in the same situation as Nicholas Brody ? (scenario you were held hostage for years , then some arab puts you in a house to teach english to his son , and then the US bombs a school where he studies and kills 80+ children and then covers up this )

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What do you make of the whole situation are the Troops in Iraq actually making the country better than it was?

I Know you've probably left and wont answer this but any way,

How has your perception on war changed because of your ordeal, do you now have a completely different view or believe it is a legitimate way to solve problems?

Thanks

Wow, that reply alone, tears fall from my eyes. That's beautiful and I can almost sense what that felt like.

Hi Peter, I hope you are not sleeping by now. ;) I wanted to ask you what you think would be the best questions to you. And the answers to that questions, of course. What were for you the most surprising parts of this experience from you? What are the things you hadn't thought about or could even imagine before you were held hostage?

I hope life treats you kindly from now on. And have a nice trip tomorrow. :)

Kind regards, Sanne

Do you think it was because they asked "More?" and you thought they asked "Moore?" so you replied "Yes"?

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I can tell you exactly what I was doing on the day of your release! It was my birthday. Congratulations on being rescued and gettin out alive.

EDIT: WAS my bday

One hundred Iraqi police officers? 100? I knew there was a bad relationship between the coalition forces and Iraqi security forces but... wow.

A hostage situation must be horrible whoever you are but I always find it extra disgusting when they take contractors and non-military targets. I can't sympathise with that at all.

Were these official police officers or did they use that old chestnut "militia wearing police uniforms"?

Were any of them ever held accountable or brought to justice in anyway?

Did you make any friends there, or did you have someone special who treated you a bit better than everyone else? Someone who sympathised with you?

Wow, I thought the US and Iraqi government were supposed to be cool with each other, and that the US was trying to help the Iraqi government become stronger so they can keep the crazies at bay. I'm obviously just a teenage idiot living in the blissful middle class.

Anyway, so do you feel any hatred for these people now? In your experience and opinion, just what the hell do they ultimately want? Pain for everyone?

Do you have a new lifegoal after expericening this mess?

How much do you appreciate life now?

Could you describe a typical day from 0am to 12pm when held with captives/ alone/ blindfolded?

What did your close family and friends say after seeing the "dead" Peter Moore?

Were there any "guards" who seemed like a particularly understanding person? ie: Someone who treated you well, talked to you etc?

Were you ever tortured or hurt while you were held hostage?

Did you develop pressure ulcers from sitting/lying in the same position for so long? Was it difficult to walk when they finally allowed you to get up? I am happy you are back safe and enjoying your motorcycle again. Be careful heading out east. Heavy storms are coming to the east coast.

Also, how has it been integrating back into society? What's been the hardest part?

1) Did you suffer -at some point- from stockholm syndrome and felt some sympathy for your kidnappers? 2) What methods did you use to keep your mind busy/sane/focused?

Did you ever try to talk to them? Or have you ever had a "normal" conversation with one of them? Did any of them try to talk to you?

Anything? How and where did you relieve yourself?

If I may ask, what was the best part...besides getting rescued, of the whole ordeal?

Your description doesn't mention who you were held by, only that you were kidnapped by Iraqi Police. Who was behind this, and why were the police involved?

Holy shit man, it sounds like you went through absolute hell on earth. I was a soldier during your captivity, and I still feel guilt to this day what I was involved (*indirectly, was never deployed there) in a war that got people like you put into a situation like that. You're seriously stronger than anyone I ever met in the military for making it through that.

I think in an ideal world being a soldier is honorable, but we haven't had honorable wars in a while, and the whole field has been tainted as a result. I wish I'd been able to have been a soldier fighting against Hitler, but it seems we just have bullshit nowadays. I know a lot of you think we are evil, but most of us envisioned ourselves as supermen who would go and fight evil that would be akin to Hitler, only to find ourselves embroiled in a mess of unjust wars.

Was anyone secretly nice (or I guess, less cruel) to you during the whole thing? Or attempt to make your time there a little less horrific? I always wonder if any of these people feel even the tiniest bit of pity or sympathy. (Though I doubt it...)

Having now gotten back, what's the most unexpected thing you really enjoyed? I imagine you had a list of stuff you were looking forward for, but did something sneak up on you?

We were told that the U.S. had control of Iraq since 2003, and that any remaining infighting was between intermittent local groups. In light of the Bush/Cheney doctrine proclaiming total U.S. control of Iraq, exactly what group do you claim had control of you?

Did you ever attempt to make your very own Iron Man suit?

Did you ever become aggressive or argumentative towards your captors? I know I wouldn't have been able to keep my cool and would have caused myself to be killed bc of my frustration.

I don't mean to ask something your probably get asked all the time. How did you able to stay alive without them killing you,and what was the worst thing that they did to you

How has this experience changed you?

This is probably the most interesting ama on Reddit yet.I remember reading about this in the paper.. I'm happy to hear that you're doing well and not allowing it to affect your day to day life. :) my question is does anything specific ever set you off? dark rooms, scary movies etc?

When did you stop crying and accept your situation?

Were there any moments when you thought you were going to die?

Did you have any conduct after capture or similar training before going to Iraq? Did the guards?

If you had control of a Predator drone over your captors what would you do with it?

How do you feel about show Homeland

What types of food did you eat? What did it feel like eating your first meal at home?

were there any moments of compassion shown towards you?

Can you describe the moment when you were reunited with your family and friends?

what about other family? (parents, siblings..) how often in those 3 years they heard infos about you?

also, do you suffer from PTSD?

I'm in Laramie, Wyoming. About 45 min away from you right now. How was your release handled?

What I find absurd is that they were trading for dead bodies before they traded for you. What were your thoughts on this when you first heard it?

Did they ever ask you about your own religous beliefs?

If they did what would you of said? (also would you of been telling the truth).

Do you think they would hate someone who is an Athiest more? or someone who was a Christian? or someone lying and pretending to be a Muslim?

Lastly, Do you get more of a buzz out of life now and appreciate everything more and think you feel happier than others as you can see things now for how great they really are?

P.S. Glad you are back to freedom now. Best wishes & Take care.

You are amazing sir. Just want to let you know that.

Did you have any escape attempts? Or plan to break out? I'm sure it must have crossed your mind somewhere along the way.

1.) How did they treat you?

2.) What is something you feel we should all know about your captors?

I hope 'Locked up Abroad' does an episode on you.

How did your family deal with the entire ordeal? Did they ever give in to the idea that you were dead?

What made you decide to post on reddit?

Did you accept the risk when you took the job or did you just think that it wouldn't happen to you?

what was it like meeting up with the british guards with whom you were captured while being imprisoned? I'd imagine they were of the few people on earth who felt the exact same way you did... I can't imagine the isolation and bond that was acknowledged at the time...?

How did you survive with out reddit?

You said in an interview that your body guards death could possibly have possibly been averted. What do you think should have happened to change this?

can you prove you are who you say you are, and that you were indeed a hostage. Sorry to ask, but this reddit community is really just a bunch of ignorant kids, and I don't buy it, you can't spell!

Let me please first say that I am sorry for your pain and am happy you have made it home safely. After reading a lot of the questions and your responses, I'd like to ask you how you were able to feel so... Accepting? I feel that if I was in your shoes I would have a hard time looking past, or accepting, of the militia that held you. I understand some of your captures treated you, from what you've said, significantly better than others. Was it difficult to not lump them all into the same category? And how you say you would want them to lose their job, are you playing that down or would you really not want any physical harm done to some of your captures?

Was he killed in captivity? If so, why do you think they spared you?

Proof?

How has your experience changed your perspective on the purpose/meaning/importance of life? Glad you are safe.

Can you describe your release? Was it something cliche like they give you clean clothes and tell you to shave/shower?

Your view of the entire conflict must have changed, any points of view that the rest of us may not realize or understand?

did you ever think to use the ps3 to try and contact anyone via wifi?

No, but there was a laptop with wifi and I memorised the names of the transmitters. I got to look t it once when the guards were out of the room

Why did they kill (execute?) the other hostages?

Oh man, I'm sorry. I know nothing can erase the memories but money would at least help you get a few things off your mind.

I'm sorry you went through this. How has this experience changed you as a person? You seem to have taken everything in your stride with a stiff upper lip. Makes me proud to be British.

Were you worried about poison of some sort being put in the food?

How often did you shower or bath?

Any reason behind that username?

During your 2.5 is there one specific day that stands out among the rest? Would you mind sharing? If not, don't worry about it -- just glad to hear you're safe.

What is your favorite country you've ever been held hostage in?

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Do you suffer from PTSD? If so, what are some ways you have overcome it?

What was the most surreal moment/activity of returning to Britain? You mentioned it was weird to see yourself all over the news; would you say it was something along the lines of that or maybe the smaller/trivial activities of everyday life..?

By the end of it all, were you sick of shwarma?

This is possibly a strange question but why did they kill the British gaurds and not you?

How was the food?

did you make friends in prison?

did you ever consider a plan to get out?

was there any day/moment at all when you found yourself somewhat happy about something (this reason not being anything related to the possibility of being freed)..

Today I was Reminded: don't take work in Iraq.

Do you have some funny moments?

I've served in the Middle East in the past and some of the beliefs they have just boggled my mind. During times you were able to talk with your captors, did they ever say anything that was just a total shock to your sensibilities?

I'm curious about this and I would understand you not answering for personal reasons, but have you suffered from Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) because of what happened?

What did you dream about while you we're held captive? Any recurring dreams?

any Stockholm syndrome?

As an Iraqi who's been living in modern civilization all his life and never stepped foot there, how fucked is my country?

I figured, and everyone I know's been saying that, but does it look like it'll ever improve?

Honestly, this would make such a good movie. I plan on becoming a movie director, and if I do, I'll definitely make this into a movie.

It is amazing, and INCREDIBLY relevant to your history. The essential story behind it is someone being changed by something very similar to what you went through, and becoming incredible because of it.

Shit, glad you're ok. Have you watched homeland?

Did you experience the Stockholm syndrome in any way ?

Did you fap?

On a scale of 9 to reddit how much do you hate America?

You should write about your experience.

A proof maybe?

Have you watched Homeland yet?

Where did you poop? Before and after the chains?

How long until you assassinate the VP ? Also, your wife is hotter than shit.

No question, but I'm glad you're back and safe.

How did they "trade" you?

Did you ever get the urge to fight back or debate argue with your captors? Or was it all hopeless at that point?

Think you made some good points? Were your captors thick headed?

Think you made some good points? Were your captors thick headed?

You were released on my 21st birthday.

Was there a point during Your captivity when You knew You would surely die? And what interesting things did You observe during the rest of the captivity, in which I assume You got used to the life of being a hostage. What behaviors did You notice that interested You and made You shiver at night .

Do you think Tony Blair should be arrested for being a war criminal?

I have a question specifically related to when you were blindfolded and cuffed. Did you find your state of consciousness shifted fundamentally?

As in, without vision did your sense of smell grow, did the voice in your head get louder? Your awareness of particular parts of your body grow/decrease?

what did you do in your first week home?

I'm truly sorry you went through this. Just out of curiosity and no offense intended, but what are your religious beliefs (if any), and how has this ordeal affected your faith (or lack thereof)?

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Do you harbour any ill feelings towards Iraqis? Or just your captors (if even them).

This question may sound odd. When away from forms of music people still manage to get songs "stuck in their head", what, if any, songs/tunes did you find yourself thinking about/singing in your head while in captivity?

And also, I am so sorry that this has happened to you, you make us all stronger by being stronger than us.

What is the longest you went without seeing your own reflection? What was it like once you saw yourself again?

What effect does being blindfolded have? What do you "see"? Does it have any effect on dreams/imagination?

after what has happened to you and what you have suffered, do you hate, have bad feelings against Arabs/Iraqis/Islam?

All right then. But my family are also considered foreigners to Iraq. Im guessing you assumed otherwise?

Photo as proof? Reddit time stamp of course....

Well, i am not going to ask you anything but if you read this.."You are a fucking imbecile to risk your own single life for your stupid government and money". Be glad you are not dead you fucking moron. I hate idiots like you who kill people for no fucking reason. Invade 3rd world countries with no defense for your own benefit. You fucking idiots deserve to die.

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um.......Proof?

Thank you is all I want to say, but I do have a question.

After the whole experience what is a normal day like for Peter Moore?

Did you think about posting on Reddit often during your captivity?

What is your favorite hobby if you have one?

What kind of place were you held in? Some kind of concrete room or wood or something? Was it bright or dark? Cold or warm?

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I thought this was Peter Moore. Sega / ea guy I wanted to ask him a million things.

Aside from that I'm glad you're ok.

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Do it all again, or sit through back to back episodes of Dr Phil?

I watched an episode of Locked Up Abroad where 2 journalist got kidnapped and help for ransom, they were "asked" to covert to Islam which they both did disingenuously...did you ever think of converting for possibilities of better treatment? Also ever think of doing a special on that program?

please tell about the best and worst facets of humanity as you see it now.

I was in Baghdad in 2009 and remember your name coming up in a number of briefings. I was happy to hear when you were released and am more happy to see that you're doing well today. Other than the obvious effects of long term captivity, how has your outlook on life back home changed?

You say bodies like they're dead.

So they wanted just their bodies? Why would they trade dead bodies for alive ones? That is intense.

What games did you play on the playstation?

That must have been horrific. Did you beg/plead with them or did you try and not give them any satisfaction in what they were doing/had just done?

I'd like to think that's what I'd do but obviously until you're in that situation you wouldn't know how you'd react.

How does it feel being the reason terrorists will continue to take hostages?

I really wish countries would stop negotiating with terrorists...

You've said a few times that the care got better over the years. Do you know why is that?

I logged in just to congratulate you, I hate that ignorance has caused you such dismay.

Did you ever beat off while being held prisoner?

Tough fucking shit, you tried to profit off of a bullshit war.

Thank yer fucking stones you got off lucky

What was the one thing or event that took place that you will never forget about your experience being held hostage? Also, how many times did you think shit, this is it..?

Sitting in captivity, you most often said to yourself, "I would kill for a ______ ?"

How much did you hear about major current events while you were in captivity? And if you heard very little, what was the most shocking current event you learned about after being released?

What were the conditions you were held in like? How were you treated?

How are you holding up psychologically? Has it been difficult to re-enter regular society, or was it a short enough captivity for you to be able to comfortably continue your life.

How has this experience changed the way you interact with people and society in general?

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While a hostage, did any of the people around you (especially the family you mention) show you any kindness?

How has your experience changed the way you feel about Iraq and it's people, or the Middle East in general? How was the reunion with your family?

During in your time were any of your captors nice to you?

Are you aware that you have the same name as an infamous serial killer in The UK?

Was it anything personal toward you or what you may ideologically represent to them? Or were you and the guards just low hanging fruit for them to use as a bargaining chip?

What was the most surprising thing you learnt about what transpired in the 'real world' when you got back?

What was the first meal you ate after getting home?

What was the food like?

Since you were tortured, do you think that what they did to you is as bad as water boarding? In other words, if you were captured by the American military and they water boarded you, would you be thankful in comparison to what they put you through in Iraq?

After going through all of this, what is a major thing you look differently at in life?

Any book, documentary, or movie offers? Only asking because I can see someone somewhere salivating to publish or script it.

I cant tell you how happy I am that you are alive. And here among us.... That you made it! I really wished that things like this did not happen to anyone. But this is how life can be. And I am greatfull that you are sharing this with us. Making us feel that we really never have experienced anything close to possible... That whatever situation we are in is smaller than very small peanuts....

If you ever end up in Norway, my house and guestroom is yours.

care to talk more about the fact that this wasn't widely reported?

What little thing would make life a little bit better while in captivity?

So as a fellow IT guys, I have to ask... What's your specialty? Did any technology change sufficiently while you were out to get your attention? Are you back in IT now?

Are you a secretly turned POW working for Abu Nazir?

I have to know what games you played.

How did your friends and family react? Was there an announcement or did you kinda just show up back in the States?

Though this may come across as a dumb question, is there anything you are not allowed to discuss about your experiences over those 2.5 years (because some government agency said so)?

Was there anything that you missed that you constantly thought about?A food,music,women,etc.Also what is your feelings toward the Iraqi people now?

Did you befriend any of the guards? Did any of the guards take a liking to you?

Were there reasons for the beatings you received? Not trying to say you deserved them, just did you do something to agitate your captors, or were they just in a particularly bad mood that day

Explain the metro system you created

Welcome back! If you were American, who would you vote for this November? Do you feel one man or the other has a policy or idea that would help prevent awful situations like the one you endured?

Why did you choose to do an AMA on a Friday night when everyone is out drinking?

... Not me Im at home Watching Star Trek and reading Reddit :)

Okay. Real question. What did you miss the most while you were held captive?

Gotta ask what the smells were like in your environment.

Damn have you ever seen Marathon Man? There is a scene near the end when a Nazi is recognized by some of his former prisoners. What would you do if years from now you were in line getting your morning tea and you see one of your abductors chilling out hanging with some new friends he had made because he's assumed a new life? What if he was with his new family?

What do you think you would do if you ever came across one of you captors? I know it is highly unlikely, but hypothetically speaking. The world is a small place after all....

what were you fed?

Did you ever feel as if any of your captors felt sorry for you, but couldn't do anything?

did you ever consider trying to escape? how much security were you under when you were captive?

Can you tell us a little bit of what happened before going to Iraq? How did you learn about the job, why did you interview for it, etc? I know the money is good, but the work and isolation is also a lot tougher than a regular job.

Before the problems, how was it working in Iraq? How were your days going?

Also, being a rider myself, it's cool that you ride and I just subscribed to your FB ride reports.

Hardest part?

if you haven't already, are you going to go back to IT? Do you think you will be able to go back to your life as it was before you were captured?

Did you ever masturbate while you were being held hostage for 2.5 years? I find it hard to imagine a man not touching himself for 2.5 years. You never started scratchin' your balls and feel your willy brush up against your hand and think fuck it, might as well?

Did they let you brush your teeth? Did it ever seems like they were going to rape you? or did they?

Not a real question, just sort of an odd request. I used to work with a couple of guys who knew you from Richmond, Va. I was with them when you were released and it became common knowledge and they were very, very happy. It was sort of surreal.

To the request: If you get a chance, call up Ric (I don't want to mention his last name, but I suspect you know who I'm talking about) and just tell him hi again. I don't know how often you see or talk to him but your ordeal and release obviously impacted him greatly. Make his day and set up some plans the next time you're back in Richmond. (If he asks wtf is going on, just tell him Kip reached out to you in a weird way).

Do you believe that war with extremists is a winnable war? such as the on going conflict in Afghanistan.

No, I got paid my salary though

Was there anything particular that you did while held captive, that may have saved your life?

First Meal you had after being released?

After you were released, what were you most surprised to learn about that had happened during your captivity?

Custardy Cue 4chan antics

Dude, welcome back.

-Did your captors ever try to convert you to Islam?

-If you could line your captors/abusers up against a wall, would you shoot them or let them go? Me, I'd shoot them.

Was there any chance of getting some pussy? Or were you at least able to masturbate? I mean come on, 2.5 years to a Redditor is incomprehensible!

I could circle jerk about the justifications of asking this all day but the final result is: Who are you voting for in the upcoming presidential election?

First, thanks for you service, I can't imagine how hard that was.

Second, my question. Are you voting this november? If so, would you mind saying who for? Respect.

"US custardy" - Tommy Pickles

This is absolutely insane. Wow, thank you for doing this AMA. Have you written extensively about your experience at all? An article, or a book? Speeches/talks? Do you plan to?

Do you resent or hate your captors now? My wife and I were talking today about why we feel how we feel about middle-eastern Islam and the insecurity in the region. Mainly the terrifying things happening in Syria right now, on a humanitarian level, it just stirs hate, which I don't want to have. You have a reason to hate, do you?

Wow, I haven't heard of your story before - I am glad you made it!

• Can you divide it up in phases, and how long did they last? I mean, I would believe the beginning will be sort of a "unreal, they will come and get me aaaaany minute now" to "wait a minute, this is happening and they're not coming" and so on.

• How were you fed? Were they taking care of you?

• Were there any 'danger games' as often seen on TV, in the essence of "do this or that or we shoot you, har har"?

• How did your family react when you came back? Did they expect you to never return alive?

Do you watch "Homeland"? What are your thoughts?

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During the harshest time of your captivity, what sorts of things (if any) did you look forward to that kept you going? Was it as something as basic as getting to eat rice, or did they let you go outside?

Did they ever have a doctor examine you while you were in captivity?

Who did you communicate the most with during this time? What were typical exchanges in this communication?

Were the guards regular guards, or did the guards keep changing. If the guards were regulars, did you engage in conversation and establish a connection?

How did your captive treat you? Did you have food water available at all times? Did you have access to a bathroom? Did you masterbate at all?

Do you know if the government implanted these Militia men with RFID chips?

Do you have any intentions of traveling in the near future? Do you think you will ever go back to Iraq? The middle east? Europe?

Were you tortured at all? and if so, in what way?

Just your right foot? Did they keep you at an angle or something?

What have you been up to since your return?

Were there any little things that kept you going? Or at least gave you some feeling of hope that you might make it out alive?

I am a clinical psychology student in the U.S. What do you think is the biggest failing of our profession and how do you think we can better serve combat veterans/ veterans of war? With the amount of school we have to go through to become licensed psychologists, the possibility of us serving ourselves is rare. I know that no matter how much I toil about the struggles our our veterans, I will never understand what it is like to have gone through these experiences, and that everyone's experience in war is different. Basically, how can we do a better job when you folks come back?

Sir, I am so sorry you had to live through this experience, and so glad you made it out alive. I just want to personally wish you all the best in your recovery.

• Did you ever think about just saying "fuck it" and going on a killing spree? If so, how close were you to doing it? Did your captors ever let their guard down for this to even be possible?

• Did you make any "friends" while being captive? I am using the word very loosely of course. I mainly mean someone you held a conversation with from time to time? Maybe someone who would sneak in a snack for you?

• How did the exchange for your freedom take place?

Thanks, and I truly wish you all of the best.

I know it's been said but, thank you for your service. I'm sorry you had to deal with all of that.

Questions, and I apologize if some of these are repeats.

How old were you when you signed up?

Any of the Iraqis treat you better than others?

What is one incident/moment/person that sticks out the most in your mind?

I know that in situations like these, people like to tip-toe around the subject/don't bring it up/treat you super differently. Do people treat you differently? At home? At work? Do you prefer it that way or would you rather have them knock it off? What is the best thing that someone can say/do that makes you feel normal?

I realize this happened a few years ago so things might be different now than they were back in 2010, so bear with me.

Thanks for doing this AMA. Thanks again for your service. If I could shake your hand, I would.

What did the company you worked for do after you'd been captured? Did they work towards your release? Did they pay your wages for the time you were in captivity? Did you have any contact with them after you were released?

How did you manage to stay sane over such an extended hostile period? Can you describe how your mental state changed throughout the whole ordeal? Glad you beat the odds btw :)

I just would like to say, Thank you for your sacrifice. Thank you for serving your country and that I'm sorry you had to pay such a high price for it. As a fellow service member, I cannot imagine what you went through. Again, I cannot say enough. Thank you.

Tell us of your one of your escape plots.

How did you cope from day to day?

You brave son of a bitch. Just wanted to stop by and say I admire you wholeheartedly for going through that.

Edit: why did I get downvoted...

How were you treated?

You shouldnt have accepted that post, its immoral.

Are you now a Muslim convert and a 'sleeper' terrorist, or have I been watching too much Homeland? Jokes btw - what do you think of the show?

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Sooo... Potatoes or Chicken?

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2 and a half years? Pffff. Some of those Arab civilians in Abu Ghraib and Guantanamo Bay have been held without trial for more than a decade.

I don't know the whole story but were the militia leaders arrested for crimes or kidnapped by americans? The table works both ways I suppose

Ok apologize but if they kidnapped you and held you for ransom. the ransom being the release of other militia and leaders (Sorry for saying al qaeda) I would call that terrorism im my opinion whether it be by well known groups or not

Glad you're back. You're probably not answering questions anymore, but if you are, I hope you see these.

1. If you're a POW is it possible to remain in the service after you're rescued, or are you discharged? Can you explain the process you went through in regards to staying in and/or being discharged?

2. If you're discharged, what type of discharge is it? (Admin honorable, I'm assuming?)

1. What sort of benefits/payouts did you receive as a POW that you would not have if you were normally discharged?

2. Do you feel like you shouldn't receive special benefits/payouts, that you are not receiving enough, or that there are things you feel could benefit you better/more that the government is not providing for you? And anything else you have to say about the system as a whole in regards to POWs.

Thank you for answering if you do!

EDIT:

1. Assuming you are a civilian now, how are you transitioning into 'normal' life. As a vet, I've had trouble myself because of the differences. But as a POW, it must be much harder. Are there any 'small' things that bug you? For instance, I was flying squad in the navy (rapid response damage control stuff) and any casualty was called by ringing bells rapidly. Because of that, any time I hear ringing bells my adrenaline goes way up super fast and I will always wake up for ringing bells. Do you go through anything similar?

EDIT2: After reading more replies I realized you're not military. But I'm still interested in answers to the questions you feel apply to you. Do you think you deserve more than just the base salary you get now, for example?

Did they have cous cous?

was there ever a point during your captivity when you actually wanted them to kill you?

Thanks for doing this AMA, and I'm sorry you went through what you did.

How do you feel about al Qaeda flags being flown by the Libyan rebels, the ones we helped?

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What are your opinions on the war in the middle east?

This might sound a bit sadistic, but was there any one capture who was worse than anyone else? If so, what would you want to see done to him?

Besides the psychological torture, did you find one more painful or worse than another? One that was ineffective?

Were you tortured?

What's your opinion on the Iraq war in general? Did it change after you we're captured? What's the biggest change you've noticed since you got released?

What is your take on where IT people fit people on the scale of Civilian ----- Combatant?

Do you think those who in the supply train of conquering armies are fair game? If someone was an IT man working for the Taliban, would you think the Americans could rightfully detain them? Weren't you fair game since you were occupying their country? Even without guns, you were a necessary component of invasion.

What did they feed you?

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Why did they keep you alive?

You say towards the end you had a television. Did you watch anything that reminded you of your life back home (sporting events, news, Western shows, etc.)?

Did you plan seriously about making an escape while you were there? Thanks for doing the AMA btw.

Why did you take the job in the first place? Were there underlying motives? Was your job guilt free? Did you feel like you were in danger at your job? How much were you paid? Where there any points at witch you truly thought you would be killed? Were you tourtured? How? I am truly glad you made it out of that he'll and are alive to do as you please, and that one less family has to grieve the loss of a loved one. Also has it changed your outlook on life? Do you plan to continue in your line of work , or do you now want to make a drastic change and attempt to change your mark on the world. Or simply get comfortable and forget as much as possible? Thanks!

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Could you possibly explain how the exchange of you and Qais Al Khazlli went down? I'm assuming that you two didn't show up and then both sides just counted to 3 and shoved you to the other one. Could you explain how that whole situation happened?

Also, how far in advance before the exchange were you notified that you were going to be going home? What was your immediate reaction?

Hey Pete, I hope this doesn't get buried, but I really want to get into the wartime reporting aspect of the media, I'm in my masters right now. Since all you have been through are you against people going overseas?

Other than working a significant amount less, in what ways has this experience changed your life, your outlook and attitude? How are your relationships with those closest to you, the people you've met since and the strangers you'd encounter on a daily basis affected by this?

It's so incredible to me that one could just assimilate back into society after fearing certain death on a moment-to-moment basis for years.

How has your view on life changed since this experience?

What was the first thing you ate when you got home? And what were your friends and family's reactions?

I hope you don't mind me asking, but you mention that two of the guards were killed. Do you happen to know why they were killed but you were not?

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Why did you accept the post? Did you believe in the mission? Was it for the money? Adventure? Combination of all three?

Thank you for talking about your experience on Reddit. I hope you can turn your dreadful experience into something beneficial. A couple questions:

• 1) Are you angry at your captors today?
• 2) Do you feel inclined to forgive (but maybe never forget)?
• 3) How has the experience of spending 2.5 years in an abusive captive environement redefined your personal relationship with yourself, if it has at all? Thank you!

You're a better man than I. Like the main character from AMC's Hell on Wheels, I'd secretly carry around a list of names for each of the people who wronged me, hunt down each person on that list, but extract my revenge in to bring upon them a slow and painful death. Easier said than done right?

How do you feel about most Americans and World citizens really ignoring this and your experience. And what does it say about Terrorism?

Do you think all the money and time we are spending is well spent or are we really helping the cause?

Because IMHO between you guys (the victims) the media and the response by the USA (can you say Homeland Security) I feel like I have spent at least 1/100th of the time you have captured by them for no real reason.

My name is laith...

Did you develop Stockholm syndrome while you were being held captive? What was your relationship with your captors like?

Is your life back to normal now? I mean, is your relationship with family, and friends strong again?

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Is there any wage amount that could be offered you that would make you consider going back into a country in conflict?

This is a question directly to reddit. Why does this post have 16,831 down votes, What the actual fuck?

[deleted]

What did you do for the majority of your time?

Oh man... what kept you alive? Hope? Faith? Sorry if this has already been asked.

This is by far the best AMA I have ever seen. I thoroughly enjoyed reading your responses. Thank you.

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Did you ever expect Jack Bauer to save you?

Do you still have any trust in the Iraqi government, considering they took you away? Also, we're you interrogated and/or tortured? Threatened by death?

If you were intelligence why would you not be armed with something?

I have a question that I haven't seen asked (but I know that in over 5000 comments, it was probably asked and then missed): What was the hostage trade like? I assume it's not as dramatic as you see on tv. How nerve wracking was the situation for you, or did you manage to stay calm?

Thanks for still answering questions after the AMA "ended".

Basically, I was driven to a militia safe house were there was an Iraqi government minister. He drove me the the British embassy.

Hi, it's probably too late for you to read this, but I would just like you to know that I have read through your answers and previously did not know about what happened to you.

I am truly in awe of how well you handled yourself and how open you are in talking about it here. Thank you for doing this and for responding to the questions so thoroughly.

I wish you well for the future.

What sort of effects did it have on you?

Oh my goodness... I'd be terrified. I can't even imagine... Do you have any post traumatic stress? How was it to come back home? Did you have nightmares?

Western friendly = Friendly to keeping Iranian energy markets open to development by western oil companies. Iran briefly had a democratically elected Prime Minister from 1951-1953. We helped create a coup to overthrow their democratic government because Iran wanted to nationalize the country's oil. Oops on our part.

How did they communicate with you if they didnt know how to speak english?

What happened after that?

What was the one thing you did to keep yourself going? Did you believe in some god or what?

Have you recently watched any of these shows? Or do they just bring back horrible memories? Thanks for the reply :)

Hello Peter. I used to know you in Guyana as I was a Peace Corps Volunteer while you were VSO. My name is Mike and I remember the last time I ran in to you was at the canteen at the school across the street from your work. I even have this weird picture of you of one time when we were drinking rum and our friend Scott was wearing your bike helmet. Anyway, you may not remember me but I sure do remember you. I am just really glad you made it out alive and are doing well. For whoever is reading this and Peter's posts I will let you know that Peter is a very normal but a really great guy. He's no SAS or Navy Seal and Peter is proof that you don't know what your body and mind can take until you experience it.

I have a few questions. Was there a memory that you used to think of while in captivity that either kept you sane, or a memory that you couldn't help but think about? Also, what did you dream about?

Bless up to you Peter. Cheers, Mike

How long were you blindfolded for?

What games did you play?

May I ask....Do you still play playstation, or did the whole ordeal ruin gaming for you?

Thats understandable. If you havent heard of minecraft, Then here it is. Its a game where you can shape the world to your liking, and is available on Ipda Computer and Xbox. The most violence it has is fighting monster, which you can turn off at any time. If you like, I can get you an acccount to use.

Tv and play station? Can you extend on how they let you have that?

Your courageous story is inspiring. I was wondering how much did you physically change? Weight loss, did they allow you to shave, cut your hair, nails, etc.

holy crap, that's tragic. i'd talk to a good employment attorney, that's shit you retire over.

Have you ever watched Homeland?

I doubt you'll even read this, Peter, but I want to say to you that the dignity and bravery you're displaying here is the most humbling thing I've ever seen on the internet - you make me proud to be a human being and I aspire to be even half the man you are one day.

I Don't know of you'll read this but I am absolutely astounded by your story. My question is how did you push past it? You seem to be more or less a happy person despite all this. I would like to know how to overcame it.

No offense or anything but these people don't follow the true islam. Please don't take what they said was Islam as the truth, go and check out r/islam

You. Are a good man

You weren't compensated by the Army/Government?

HOW?! I want to do this.

I work in IT too ...but my job wants me there all year. How'd you work that one out? Do you own your own consulting business? You hiring?

Hey thanks so much for taking the time to give me advice buddy, I really appreciate that! I'm going to look into doing something like that because I'm a big advocate of both helping develop third-world countries ...and working as little as possible in the year! I will send you a pm if it works out!

i would have request full time pay plus all over time for the 3 years

Ya I've seen em all. I'm a big fan of traveling and I've been in a few tough positions myself, however nothing anywhere near as crazy. I live vicariously through the people who have. If you want to submite your story here is the adress to do so. stories@raw.co.uk

DO YOU WATCH HOMELAND?

Hi Pete. First of all respect for what you had to endure.

I'd be interested in working in IT in developing countries (maybe not Iraq though) - do you have any advice/pointers?

Interesting. You don't need a MSc for most IT positions nowadays, I wonder why this is not the case for volunteering.

EDIT: Does this requirement differ between GOs and NGOs?

Well, shit. I'm originally from Peterborough and the fact that you live so close to me really emphasised how real this all is. I'm glad you survived and pleased you had the strength to do this IAMA.

You are a very inspiring person, what you went through and came back from is inspirational to what humans can handle

Do you have any family? if so how did they handle your being held for so long? Was there anything you wished you could have told them well you were being held? anything you wish they had or hadn't done? Thanks.

You were probably craving garlic bread because your brain craves what it lacks. e.g. carbs and fats to burn. And garlic is known to have some healing properties.

Depressed person wants chocolate = increase serotonin.

This is way late, but do you feel that SERE training would have helped you while you were held?

That's interesting... Do you think that your captors weren't responding to attempts of the US to get you back, or might it have been something else? Is there anything that you talk about now that you would have benefited from had you know about it before being held? I know that most of SERE talks about POW situations, but your case is a hostage situation, for which there can really be no ground rules besides GTFO at your first good chance. Did you build any sort of rapport with your captors, what do you think led to you being held alive for so long? Do you have any recordings of your talks? I'm very interested in this, being a member of the flying, deploying air force. Please don't feel obligated to answer if these questions are tedious to answer.

Thanks for your time

Edited for clarity

that annoyed you? you got a cake and you could not blow out the candle and it annoyed you? wow thats just wow

Holy crap. I was just reading this AmA for the first time. I can't believe you're still answering stuff.

What's been the hardest thing about being back in normal life for you to adjust to?

Yeah I can imagine. I guess they just want a better story than you being IT. Their audience would probably be more interested in reading about an intelligence officer being held hostage for that long than someone in IT. But I still think your story is amazing no matter where you worked when you were captured.

Has a lot of the press gone away by now or are you still getting a lot of their attention?

Yeah. I'm sure no matter how much you deny it or have proof otherwise there are always going to be people who aren't going to believe you because you're trying to "cover it up" or something.

What does an inquest like that entail? (if you know)

Just read a couple articles about Daqduq. What do you think will happen with him now? It seems like he's disappeared from what I can tell. Do you think that the Iraqis denial of the US request to extradite him is a play to show how little power that they have over there now?

Sorry for all the questions. I am really quite fascinated by all of this.

Hmm.. That's all really interesting. I'm interested in seeing how it will all pan out. If he decides to be smart and stay where he's at or if he makes a mistake and gets arrested..

Alright, one more question then I'll leave you alone. How would you say all this changed your perspective on life?

Ahh makes sense. I'm trying to do the second one myself right now. Today is actually my last day on the job then I'm just finishing off this semester of school and It's traveling time.

Thanks for all your answers.

All I can say is that I take off every single hat I own to you sir! Best wishes to you.

Were there any nice guards? And, were there any rude ones?

I apologize for lady gaga.

Holy crap you`re on!

I just read through (most) of this entire thread... and I've never been so interested / obsessed / emotion about ANYTHING in my entire life.

Again, please write a book. This story needs to be everywhere. Hell, a movie could probably get made about this if you wanted.

One thing I noticed was that when you were released, you said that you went to the families of the guards.

What did you say to them?

Did it help?

Were they glad to see you? Or sad because you brought up past feelings that they began to move on from (assuming it was a good year or two after the death of the last guard)

Why the fuck has the President NOT shaken your hand yet? A captive living like this for nearly THREE YEARS deserves the highest medal available, even if you are only a citizen.

I'm just reading your AMA after your post on /r/talesfromtechsupport.
You should definitely come see us in /r/motorcycles and talk about your journey through the sates!

I just wanted to say how amazed I am at your story, it really brings people like me back to reality, and how grateful I am to have such an easy and simple life. I think you are a role-model to everyone who has had it rough in their lives. I wish the best for you and your family and hope that you can get over what has happened to you, Sorry if I am late on this post, but I just had to leave a comment.

1. I read all of the posts and replies and didn't see this asked, but what are you doing now for a job? And where do you live now?
2. I read that you were blindfolded for the first year with your captives, do you mean 24/7 or just for most of the day?

Thank you for doing this, and hope you can enjoy the rest of your life to the fullest.

Following the laws of Islam and Christianity you get the same punishment

its just that Islam goes thru with it threats (actually practices its religion correctly)

its made pretty clear in the Hadiths.

Wikipedia says - "Hadith are regarded by traditional Islamic schools of jurisprudence as important tools for understanding the Quran and in matters of jurisprudence."

well im guessing they believe that god gives them the power.

and that's there justification to kill if that is what god wants

im fine with Islam as long as they dont follow the Hadiths

there not really the quaran they were written by people after Muhammed unless im mistake and im pretty sure im right in saying the guys who wrote it were the same ones that destroyed the Muslim scientific empire during the dark ages

That is seriously crazy. Where did the psych get his degree, walmart?

I'm pretty sure if they knew you had severe PTSD then they would have kept you in medical care. These flashbacks could have caused you to have the same feelings as when you wanted to hang yourself in the chains. I recommend you see another psychologist or psychiatrist to really make sure you don't go crazy. You don't want to go down in history as the retired veteran that shot up his apartment/mall

What was the first thing you did when you came back to America?

What did you get promoted too? Do you ever joke about that?

Are you still traveling the states?

That Iraqi minister must have had some balls.

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This interview was transcribed from an "ask me anything" question and answer session with Peter Moore conducted on Reddit on 2012-10-26. The Reddit AMA can be found here.