This is what a real hero is like: Joe Darby is the whistle blower who drew the world’s attention to Abu Ghraib. His anonymity was blown by Rumsfeld, and he feared for his life. He still thinks that some of the people involved may be out for revenge.

I think it is important to tell Joe that what he did was a real act of heroism. No matter what he says. It took guts, and it was the right thing to do. I know he will probably never read this, but, Joe, thank you – You stood up against injustice and oppression. You saw a wrong than needed righting. It is people like you who keep my hope for humanity alive. It is people like you who make this world a better place. It is people like you who are the foundation of what is commonly called “civilization”.

And if you ever get to Frankfurt, Germany… Let me know. I’ll buy you a beer.