IRAQ: Patricia Walker — a real donkey

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When the Marines spotted an undernourished, lethargic donkey wandering around the firing range where they’re teaching marksmanship to Iraqi soldiers, naturally they wanted to adopt the beast.

A military veterinarian gave her a check up. Marine family members contacted saddle shops in Twentynine Palms and Temecula that sent donkey chow and vitamins. A Marine named Walker called her Patricia. Her new home thus became known as Patricia Walker Ranch.

She’s now fatter and more energetic. ‘When the Marines found her, she didn’t want to do anything but lay down,’ said Gunnery Sgt. Hank Rimkus.

A bridle is on its way from the U.S. so Patricia Walker can go jogging with Marines. There’s also talk of getting her a blanket made out of camouflage fabric.

— Tony Perry in Habbaniya