DETAILS

On the second time through the property where he was found, perhaps five strides inside the front gate, a soldier kicked away some dirt from a spot that looked odd-a spot on top of which a soldier had stood during the first pass. Underneath the dirt was a cloth rug. Underneath that was a rubber mat, which sat atop a thick Styrofoam block.

"We expected something more elaborate. We expected something more well constructed," said Lt. Col. Hickey.

They also expected resistance, he says, but when the block was removed, "two hands appeared. That individual clearly wanted to surrender."

The bearded, bewildered looking man did not reach for the pistol in his lap. He had no chance to get to the two AK-47s that were inside the house. Instead, Lt. Col. Hickey reported, he said, "I am Saddam Hussein, the president of Iraq, and I am willing to negotiate." One of the soldiers responded, "President Bush sends his regards."