Iraqi tells students why he aided Lynch

CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- An Iraqi lawyer who assisted US forces in the rescue of Jessica Lynch said yesterday he helped the injured West Virginia native because "she is a child of God."

Mohammed Odeh al-Rehaief described his role in Lynch's April 1 rescue to a crowd of about 100 at the University of Charleston, about 70 miles south of Lynch's hometown of Palestine.

"It's very hard when you know somebody needs your help and you can help them. It is very difficult if you don't help them," Rehaief said.

Lynch, 20, an Army supply clerk, suffered broken bones and other injuries in the attack. Rehaief said he decided to help after witnessing her being slapped across the face as she lay in bed. Rehaief, 33, his wife, and daughter have been granted asylum in the United States.