Israeli Army Bulldozer Kills American in Gaza
In Olympia, Colin Reese, a student at Evergreen State and a close friend of Ms. Corrie, said she had focused much of her studies on community organizing. Describing her work in Gaza, he said, "She was particularly touched by the Palestinian situation and wanted to use her privilege as an American citizen to help defend against the Israeli occupation."

One of Ms. Corrie's teachers at Evergreen was Larry Mosqueda, a professor of political economy and social change, who said her work in Gaza was a reflection of lessons taught at Evergreen that encourage students to put their education to practical use while still in college. "She has a strong sense of social justice," he said. "Basically, she wanted to do something about it instead of just talk about it."

The military has flattened dozens of homes in Rafah, some because militants were using them for cover.

The Israeli authorities have said the International Solidarity Movement's protesters prevent soldiers from acting against militants, and they have deported some members. Demonstrators have been hurt, but Ms. Corrie was the first one killed.

The Israeli troops "have shot over our heads, and shot near our feet — they have fired tear gas at us," said Michael Shaik, media coordinator for the group. "But we thought we had an understanding. We didn't think they would kill us."
http://www.nytimes.com/2003/03/17/international/middleeast/17GAZA.html