but many still feel somehow that they are fighting for American freedoms

The soldiers I have contact with do not feel this way. They get through the mess by having small defined missions that they still try and carry out, and most importantly of all, they fight for each other. There is a huge sense of brotherhood based on keeping your unit intact and alive... while attempting to accomplish a mission. They try and stay alive for EACH OTHER while carrying out some goal. I got the very strong feeling that they live for each other. An overwhelming sense of working together while staying alive.

My take from soldiers over there, and those that were over in Iraq and are now back here. Sample size of 4 people.