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CNN Live Today

Spring Storms Whipped Up Tornadoes, Severe Weather in More Than a Dozen States

Aired May 31, 2004 - 10:00   ET

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.


DARYN KAGAN, CNN ANCHOR: Good morning from the CNN headquarters in Atlanta. I'm Daryn Kagan.
New violence in Iraq today, a car bomb killed at least two people and wounded 17 others on a Baghdad road. The explosion took place about 550 yards outside the Green Zone, where the U.S.-led coalition has its headquarters.

The floodwaters have fallen but the death toll is rising in the neighboring countries of Haiti and the Dominican Republic. More than 1400 have been killed and hundreds more are still missing. At least 30,000 people are homeless.

Vice President Dick Cheney's office denies he was involved in any coordinated effort to secure an Iraqi oil deal for Halliburton. On March 2003, a Pentagon e-mail published in this week's "Time" magazine said the contract had been awarded to Cheney's former employer and, quote, "Action has been coordinated with the vice president's office." One official said it was merely a routine advanced notice that a contract decision had been made.

And the Summer Olympics are costing Greece a billion dollars more than expected due to delays in construction and increased security costs. The Greek conservative party, which won power in March, has been criticizing the former socialist government for failing to control the spending on the Olympics.

Live this hour, the nation's commander in chief remembers those who have served and died in defense of the nation and its liberties. Near the end of the hour, President Bush will lay a wreath at Arlington's Cemetery Tomb of the Unknowns. CNN will carry that live, as well as Mr. Bush's remarks in the next hour.

But we're going to start with the severe weather. May is going out like a lion and much of the U.S. is bearing the scars of its wraths. Spring storms whipped up tornadoes and severe weather in more than a dozen states, many of them in the Midwest. At least three people have been killed, one of them is in Marengo, Indiana.

Our Keith Oppenheim joins us from there -- Keith.

KEITH OPPENHEIM, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Hi, Daryn. And what a tough morning here in Marengo; we're going to show you some unfortunately pretty devastating images from this town. Take a look at the debris that is just strewn in front of this house, all churned up from the tornado. It's all mixed together with trees and the contents of the home.

As we go to another live camera perspective, you can get a wider view of all of the damage in this area. You have people cleaning up using chain saws, pulling away branches. You have utility crews working right now. At least 50 homes were damaged in this community of 800. There is no power. There are emergency crews out now using cadaver dogs to search for potentially more dead bodies, but at this point only one confirmed fatality of an elderly gentleman.

We take you back to what we are looking at where I'm standing, which is a Ford Escort station wagon. Just to give you the view of what the power of a tornado can do to one object. The windshield is all bashed in from objects presumably hitting it, but the rest of the glass in the car is blown out. And all sorts of strange objects start to come into the car, like insulation foam, things that don't belong in this vehicle at all.

At this point, an emergency assessment is going on inside the city of Marengo. and emergency managers are doing their best to find out just where all of the damage is and how long it's going to take to clean it up. And as we look in the distance here, you can see just that long view of how many phone poles are down. Utility poles are down.

People kind of walking around in sort of a state of shock here, Daryn, because the degree of damage is so great, they're really trying to figure out how bad it is. And the naked eye proves some of it, but some of it, they have to look around and find out.

Back to you.

KAGAN: Keith Oppenheim in Marengo, Indiana. Thank you.

That is putting it in perspective in another way. I think we're OK.

JACQUI JERAS, CNN METEOROLOGIST: I think we're OK.

KAGAN: There we go. Jacqui Jeras is here. You were here over the weekend as well. Now, you know tornadoes. You've seen tornadoes. You've worked on tornados. And even you were overwhelmed by how much action there was.

JERAS: Yes. In fact, I've heard some rumors that this might be one of the greatest tornado outbreaks in recorded history. We had about 175 tornadoes from Saturday and Sunday, over the weekend alone and that is just phenomenal. We had such an outbreak yesterday. In fact, I think over five, 10-hour period, I probably had at least a dozen tornado warnings at any given time within that period.

KAGAN: You were earning your keep around here.

JERAS: Absolutely. It was a crazy night.

KAGAN: Did you bring power bars today?

JERAS: I did. Granola bars, though.

KAGAN: Because you are going to be going and moving. Great, we'll check back with you. Jacqui, thank you for that.

For all the latest on the threatening weather and an interactive feature that allows to you personalize your own forecast, visit our web site. The address is cnn.com/weather.

There are reports today of more fighting in Kufa. That is where a three-day truce has given way to intense battles between the U.S. forces and Shiite militiamen. Two Americans were killed in yesterday's firefights.

CNN's Guy Raz is embedded with the 237 Armored Battalion.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

GUY RAZ, CNN CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): This was supposed to be Day 3 of a truce. But as a recognizance patrol from Task Force 237 approached the center of town, insurgents opened fire from a cemetery near the Kufa mosque.

(GUNFIRE)

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: We're shooting at 2:00.

RAZ: For well over an hour, 100 U.S. troops, tanks and armored carriers fought a pitched battle with fighters loyal to cleric Muqtada al Sadr. Mehdi militia fighters remained holed up behind this wall of a Kufa cemetery. U.S. officials believe at least 30 suspected insurgents were killed in this fight. Rocket propelled grenades and small arms fire from the insurgents killed two U.S. soldiers as well. The first time U.S. troops have fallen in battle here in six weeks of fighting.

(GUNFIRE)

RAZ: The truce declared by Sadr's militia is viewed with considerable skepticism among U.S. forces.

PFC. NOAH FREEDMAN, U.S. ARMY: I didn't expect the other side to be respecting the cease-fire. I figured the other side; they were going to keep firing. I mean the first day of the cease-fire we took mortar fire here in this camp.

RAZ: Military commanders have temporarily suspended offensive operations. This is regarded as a defensive engagement.

LT. COL. PAT WHITE, U.S. ARMY: We will continue to develop the situation in Kufa to get a feel for what's going on with the Mehdi army. And at some point, Sadr is going to have to come out and tell the world, and at least Najaf, this is a situation that I'm in. Tell my guys to disarm and he's either going to have to disown the people in Kufa. And say hey, those aren't my guys over there; my guys are all over here with me. Or he's going to have to own up to those that are in the Mehdi army that are still inside that mosque with weapons, as you saw tonight.

RAZ: Six weeks since intense fighting broke out here, hundreds of insurgents have been killed. U.S. forces are hoping the latest fighting may finally force Muqtada al Sadr's hand.

Guy Raz, CNN, Kufa, Iraq.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

KAGAN: Let's take a closer look at some of the developments in Iraq. The political maneuvering drags on. Meaning the Iraqi Governing Council will not meet to select a new president today. Today, May 31 is the self-imposed deadline for a new government, but failure to do so should mean little in the long run.

The U.S. Embassy is due to officially open today in Iraq. And Iraqi police have ordered Ahmed Chalabi to vacant the Iraqi National Congress office in Ramadi, just west of Baghdad. Chalabi had once been a key link between Washington and Iraq, but he has fallen into disfavor.

We move on now. Nine minutes past the hour to Saudi Arabia. A manhunt is underway for three suspected al Qaeda militants, who fled just as commandos stormed the building where they had taken hostages. Twenty-two people died in the ordeal and shock waves could ripple to the world oil market.

Our senior international editor David Clench has that story.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

DAVID CLENCH, CNN SENIOR INT'L EDITOR (voice-over): The aftermath of a rampage, bloodstained floors, horrific reports of gunmen going room-to-room in search of westerners to kill, some victims having their throats slit. Witnesses say the body of a British oil executive was dragged through the streets behind a car. For more than 24 hours, Islamic militants terrorized this compound for overseas oil workers. Saudi security forces stormed the building where they had taken hostages. The Saudi say the group's leader was wounded and captured. But three others escaped.

The human toll from this weekend hostage taking is clear, the political and economic effect not yet so obvious. A statement from the al Qaeda linked group claiming responsibility, warns their fight to rid the Gulf of, quote, "crusaders" will continue. The British ambassador in Saudi Arabia warns more terror attacks may be in the final planning stages.

Saudi officials acknowledge the difficulty of fighting terror, but they say they have the situation under control.

NAIL AL JUBEIR, SPOKESMAN, SAUDI EMBASSY: Intent of al Qaeda from the beginning was to go after the Saudi state and the United States. That was their first intent. They almost succeeded. Now, they're trying to cripple the world economy by trying to send the message that foreigners are not safe in Saudi Arabia. It is a message that is broadcast around the world and that's what they're going for. I think they are safe; but it is a decision that each individual has to make.

CLENCH: After the attack, Saudi Arabia promised oil exports would not be affected, in an effort to calm nervous markets. And OPEC ministers say the Saudis will go ahead with their promise to raise production next month.

With the price of crude oil hovering around $40 a barrel, markets in London and New York have the Monday holiday to adjust from the news from Saudi Arabia.

David Clench, CNN.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

KAGAN: Here in the U.S., it has been a year and a half since a young, pregnant woman named Laci Peterson went missing. Now, the murder trial of her husband is set to begin tomorrow. A pre-preview of what to expect is straight ahead.

And making the ultimate sacrifice for freedom, troops remembered this Memorial Day.

And later, the hottest game in town has a new champ. Meet the man who took home millions for winning the World Series of Poker.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

KAGAN: Opening statements are scheduled to begin tomorrow in the double murder trial of Scott Peterson. The 31-year-old Modesto, California man could get the death penalty if convicted of killing his wife Laci and their unborn son. He says he's innocent. The Redwood City, California trial is expected to last up to six months.

Let's talk about the Peterson trial, also a new development surrounding the Martha Stewart case with attorney Tom Heiden. He focuses on difficult and high profile lawsuits. Mr. Heiden joining us from Chicago on this Memorial Day.

Good morning. Thank you for being here with us.

TOM HEIDEN, LEGAL ANALYST: Good morning, Daryn. How are you?

KAGAN: I'm doing great. Tomorrow, Scott Peterson's murder trial begins. So far, though, it appears the prosecution only has circumstantial evidence.

HEIDEN: I think all of the serious trial watchers ought to get ready for a classic trial. On the one hand, everybody in this country knows or thinks that they know that he did it and that he deserves to be convicted. On the other hand, is there any actual evidence that he actually killed anyone? On the other hand, is there any evidence that actually links Scott Peterson to this crime? Any DNA, any blood, any murder weapon, any eyewitness to anything.

KAGAN: Well, there are those pliers that might have one of Laci Peterson's hairs on it.

HEIDEN: Well, there are pliers that were sitting in a boat. A secret boat that nobody knew that he owned; but even so, I suppose most boats may have a set of pliers in them. Again, he cheated on his pregnant wife. He lied to his wife. He lied to his mistress. He lied to the police. He says he was fishing on Christmas Eve. Everyone intuitively knows that he's guilty. But is there any real evidence linking him to these crimes?

KAGAN: So the challenge for the defense will be, all right, so the guy is a scumbag of a husband. And he's not even a good boyfriend because he lies to his mistress, but it doesn't make him a murderer?

HEIDEN: And this will be an enormous challenge, Daryn, for the defense to keep reminding the jurors: it's your duty, it's your obligation to listen, to see if there is any evidence that shows that my client had something to do with these murders.

KAGAN: All right. Let's move on to Martha Stewart now. If folks were at work today, this would be the water cooler story of the day. Martha Stewart awaiting sentencing on her four felony convictions has hired -- I didn't even know this existed, a sentencing consultant. Who knew? I guess you would know in your world that high-priced people can hire these types?

HEIDEN: Well, I don't know anyone who hired a stay out of jail consultant before.

KAGAN: Yes. Well, apparently she has. And so she's come up with this idea with her sentencing consultant that oh, jail? Jail shmail. How about I do nice community service and teach women, low- income women on how to become entrepreneurs?

HEIDEN: It seems to me, Daryn, that Martha Stewart has absolutely nothing to lose by suggesting anything, something other than jail time. After all, she's been convicted now of four felonies and she's facing some real serious jail time. The suggestion, though, might be taken seriously by this judge and might put the judge in a very difficult position.

On the one hand, no jail time plays right into the public perception in this country that rich and important people play by a different set of rules and we see that with actual jurors everyday. On the other hand, there is another new development in this case. And Martha Stewart's main witness against her for the government has now been charged by the government with having perjured himself in his testimony against her. Maybe this judge can't bring herself to put Martha Stewart in jail on the basis of that perjured testimony.

KAGAN: Well, if there is that, then I know her attorneys have already asked for one new trial, or asked once. and that was denied based on the juror who didn't represent his past correctly. Won't they be pushing for a new trial based on this perjury testimony?

HEIDEN: Oh, absolutely. And it seems to me that this is a serious motion for a new trial. And that Martha Stewart may be entitle to do a new trial on the basis of a main government witness, who the government now says lied.

KAGAN: And let me just make the case. Because I was thinking about it when I first heard about this, I kind of snickered. But if you think about it, would Martha Stewart's time really be better spent behind bars or really could she have something to offer and do something productive in society? And when you compare what she did to what some of the other corporate big wigs are accused of doing it's really not the same.

HEIDEN: Seems to me it's really pretty minor stuff and she really does have something to offer to other people. Somebody ought look at this whole case and say we're not going to have a new trial because of the perjured testimony; we're not going to have any jail time either. We're going to send Martha Stewart off to teach and we're going to have this melodrama come to an end once and for all.

KAGAN: People will be looking at it. Tom Heiden, thanks for your time on Memorial Day.

HEIDEN: Appreciate it.

KAGAN: Tom Heiden joining us from Chicago.

A fighter pilot hit over Baghdad in the middle of the war.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

GARY TUCHMAN, CNN CORRESPONDENT (on camera): Do you think you're a hero?

KIM CAMPBELL, A-10 PILOT, U.S. AIR FORCE: No, not at all. I think, to me, you know, I was doing my job that day. And I'm very lucky to be back home.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

KAGAN: You're going to meet the pilot known as "Killer Chick." She recounts the day that she thought she might not make it back.

And weekend of remembering leading up to the holiday. We are live from Washington, D.C. for this Memorial Day.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

KAGAN: Her colleagues call her "Killer Chick." It's a sign of respect for the fighter pilot who survived a missile attack over Baghdad.

Our Gary Tuchman has her story.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

TUCHMAN: During the peak of the air war over Iraq, A-10 pilot Kim Campbell's life hung in the balance on a cloudy April night over Baghdad. (on camera): Do you think you're a hero?

CAMPBELL: No, not at all. I think, to me, you know, I was doing my job that day. And I'm very lucky to be back home.

TUCHMAN (voice-over): Luck had something to do with it. But Air Force colleagues say heroism did, too. Captain Campbell also known as "Killer Chick" or K.C. was hit by Iraqi fire over Baghdad. Her attack jet lost its hydraulic power. CNN was embedded with her squadron at the base on the Iraqi border where she safely landed.

QUESTION: Did you think you were going to be able make it back or that you would have to eject from the plane?

CAMPBELL: There was a quick second there I knew it was a possibility. But in my mind, I knew I had no desire to eject over Baghdad.

The experts believe a surface-to-air missile impacted somewhere in this area. And then, as it hit it, it sent shrapnel from the missile into both the inside of the right tail and also the fuselage here.

TUCHMAN: Casey is now back at North Carolina's Pope Air Force Base with her new A-10. Home since July, she says she remains a strong supporter of the U.S. role in Iraq.

CAMPBELL: No one said this was going to be easy. And you know, we know it was going to be tough, and we'll be there as long as the mission calls for it.

TUCHMAN: The 28-year-old has received awards in accolades. She makes two to three speeches a month, while continuing her training.

CAMPBELL: Our squadron will most likely be deploying later on this year. And I'm more than happy to go back.

TUCHMAN: Would you family not like to see you fly combat missions anymore?

CAMPBELL: They know I love what I do, and they know that I'm willing to take risks. And this is something I would be willing to give my life for, because I believe in it. And my parents aren't going to tell me that I can't do it. Certainly not at age 28 anyway!

TUCHMAN: Gary Tuchman, CNN, Pope Air Force Base, North Carolina.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

KAGAN: Coming up on CNN LIVE TODAY, remembering those who have their lives in the name of freedom, then and now.

And the fleet remains docked in New York. We're taking you aboard the USS Anzio for a Memorial Day visit.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

KAGAN: I'm Daryn Kagan. Let's check the stories making headlines at this hour. It is calmer in the Midwest this morning after some severe weather swept through. There were 84 tornado sightings in eight states Sunday. Three deaths are being blamed on the storms. One hard-hit area was southern Indiana; dozens of homes were destroyed or damaged in one small town.

Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon is threatening to fire cabinet members who oppose his U.S-backed withdrawal plans. Protesters gathered outside the yesterday's cabinet meeting, in which Sharon was seeking support of his pullout from Gaza and parts of the West Bank. The vote was postponed and his government thrown into uncertainty when it became clear that he lacked a majority.

Three months after he was ousted in a coup, former Haitian President Jean Bertrand Aristide has arrived today in South Africa. He had been living in Jamaica. Aristide calls South Africa his temporary home. He says he'll return to Haiti to restore his presidency.

The amount of time that you drive on the road may be your road to obesity. Researchers say there is a survey of more than 10,000 motorists showed the amount of time spent in cars had a greater impact on weight than income, education, gender or ethnicity. Here are the numbers every 30 minutes of commuting time meant an extra 3 percent chance of becoming obese.

Memorial Day has special meaning for U.S. forces serving in war zones, both in Iraq and Afghanistan. Our Ryan Chilcote is spending the holiday with troops in Afghanistan. That is where four U.S. troops were killed over the weekend. He files this report from Camp Phoenix which is just outside of Kabul.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

RYAN CHILCOTE, CNN CORRESPONDENT: We are at Camp Phoenix with Task Force Phoenix, a multinational force that is made up of several countries and several U.S. military units. But the bulk of the soldiers come from the Oklahoma National Guard.

Now, the U.S. servicemen and servicewomen from the Oklahoma National Guard back in the states are commonly referred to as citizen soldiers. These guardsman and guardswomen generally give about one weekend a month and two weeks a summer to the U.S. military.

But that all changed when they got called up to come here to Afghanistan in this unit's first long deployment since the Korean War. They are here training the Afghan National Army. They should be here at least for a few more months.

And just a short while ago, they paid tribute to veterans of U.S. military conflicts. And, in particular, of course, veterans from their own unit, from the 45th Infantry Brigade.

Now the 45th Infantry Brigade is also known as the Thunderbirds. The Thunderbirds played a very prominent role in World War II. They were in Italy, they were the south of France, they were in Germany. They actually liberated the Dachau concentration camp.

And they were also used very extensively in the Korean War. In fact, the Thunderbirds spent more time, more consecutive days in combat than any other U.S. infantry unit. Those soldiers here from the 45th Infantry Brigade here in Afghanistan paying tribute to veterans of U.S. conflicts and veterans of the 45th Infantry Brigade from other U.S. military conflicts.

Ryan Chilcote, CNN, Kabul, Afghanistan.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

KAGAN: Another note from Afghanistan, you might have missed this over the weekend. A U.S. Army investigation concludes that former NFL player Pat Tillman probably was killed by so-called friendly fire. Tillman, you may also recall, was so moved by the 9/11 attack that he walked away from a huge contract with the NFL, with the Arizona Cardinals, to join the Army Rangers.

Investigators believe an American mistakenly fired on an Afghan soldier in Tillman's unit and other U.S. troops then fired as well.

On this Memorial Day weekend, much of the nation's patriotism was on display on Washington's National Mall. That's the backdrop for our Sean Callebs on this holidays that salutes those who have served in the nation's armed services. Good morning.

SEAN CALLEBS, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Good morning to you, Daryn. Indeed a lot of tourists out here on this Monday holiday morning -- even though you can see behind me that it's very dismal, rainy, somewhat even chilly day in the nation's capital. But a lot of people have been out here throughout the morning.

President Bush is scheduled to lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns just about 30 minutes from now. Always a very sobering, very solemn, patriotic moment for those involved with the U.S. military.

Then later on this afternoon at 1:00 Eastern time, a few hours from now, Homeland Security Chief Tom Ridge will be at the Vietnam Memorial for a ceremony there. Ridge, of course, a Vietnam veteran himself.

But let me tell you what happened earlier this morning in this city. A parade wound its way through the area, highlighted by a number of vintage World War II vehicles and a number of World War II veterans. Really a step back in time for those veterans. And really the focus this holiday weekend has been on the World War II vets.

Of course, the unveiling of the World War II Memorial, not far from where we're standing, about 150,000 people turning out this weekend for the dedication for many Word War II vets. Including a gentleman we spoke with earlier this morning, said it was a long time coming.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP) CAPT. JACK LUCAS (RET.), WWII MEDAL OF HONOR RECIPIENT: Kind of late coming, almost 60 years after the war before we get a memorial. But it will be a lasting symbol of a great strife that occurred during World War II.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

CALLEBS: And take a look at this. This is a photograph that our producer came upon this morning. There you see President Bush -- former President George Bush -- and former President Clinton all wearing their sunglasses. To her kind of had that Blues Brothers feel. But really caught the celebration of this past weekend.

Perhaps former Senator Bob Dole summed it up best when he said, "This is not a memorial to war. Is this a tribute to all of those who served, of the physical and moral courage to turned farm boys and city boys into heroes." Daryn, back to you.

KAGAN: So no Jimmy Carter or Gerald Ford on hand?

CALLEBS: No Jimmy Carter or Gerald Ford on hand. To be honest with you, I presume they were invited. I don't know. Perhaps other engagements, perhaps another reason for not coming. I wish I knew the answer to that, Daryn, but I simply don't.

KAGAN: Didn't mean to stump you on this Memorial Day.

Another thing I want to ask you. There is so much talk about all of the security and the fears around that. How did that all run over the weekend?

CALLEBS: It went flawlessly, it went flawlessly. And really, even the weather cooperated with the greatest generation. The temperatures in the mid-70s so that had it been much warmer, it could have been very harsh on the elderly.

About a hundred people did need some medical assistance but security went off flawlessly. We had a chance to talk with people this morning walking around through here and they said everyone was wonderful, they were helpful. So this indeed a Memorial weekend to remember for those World War II vets.

KAGAN: Sean Callebs on the Mall in Washington, D.C.

Also on this this Memorial Day, all ashore in New York. Thousands of U.S. Marines and sailors have stormed the Big Apple. The annual celebration of Fleet Week is barreling full steam ahead. That's where we find our Jason Carroll. He is live from the deck of the USS Anzio. Jason, good morning.

JASON CARROLL, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Good morning to you, Daryn.

You know Fleet Week is really a way of saying thank you to the men and women who served. Part of the way to say thanks is letting them have some time off so they can hopefully enjoy the city and enjoy their families as well. CARROLL (voice-over): It's Fleet Week and Angel Alvarado is following tradition.

ANGEL ALVARADO, USS ANZIO: Going back there, those are our communications antennas.

CARROLL: Giving tours of ship, the USS Anzio.

ALVARADO: And watch your steps. Two steps up.

CARROLL: But this tour is different. This group is Alvarado's family.

MARIA ROSADO, SAILOR'S MOTHER: I'm so proud of him. I never dreamed that he would do all this.

ROSA ROSADO-CAMPBELL, SAILOR'S AUNT: Surprised about the amount of responsibility that he has in his hands, you know?

ALVARADO: You still see me as a little boy, is that right?

ROSADO-CAMPBELL: Well, no, no. But, you know, it's like...

(CROSSTALK)

CARROLL: It's the first time Alvarado has had a chance to have some of his family on board and show them what he does as chief petty officer.

ALVARADO: We have firefighting equipment all throughout the ship.

CARROLL: Alvarado hasn't been to the Middle East yet. But it's likely he'll go soon, an unsettling thought for him and his family.

ALVARADO: It's hard to have to explain something to a family member. But the bottom line is it's my job. I have to do it.

ALVARADO: It's worrisome. But, you know, I also said that god is so good and he's so great that he's going to protect him whatever he does.

SONIA ACEVEDO, SAILOR'S FAMILY FRIEND: He should stay here. He shouldn't go anywhere, as far as we're concerned.

CARROLL: For the time being, they're grateful to have him here.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: I love you so much. You know I do.

CARROLL: And treasuring their time with him now.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

CARROLL: Special thanks there to the Alvarado family for letting us spend time with them. As soon as Fleet Week is over, the USS Anzio will be heading back to their home port in Norfolk, Virginia for more training. Some of these other ships that are out here for Fleet Week will be heading back to the Middle East. Back to you.

KAGAN: Jason Carroll in New York City. Thank you, Jason.

Honoring the dead. Coming up later we are live at the Tomb of the Unknowns for the presidential wreath laying.

And the new man to beat in Vegas. You're going to meet the champ for the World Series of Poker. And he's not a professional gambler. What does he do for his day job? We will tell you. This is CNN LIVE TODAY.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

KAGAN: Let's take a look at the stories coast-to-coast. Hundreds of volunteers search the area around Corvallis, Oregon Sunday for Brooke Wilberger. The 19-year-old Brigham Young University student disappeared a week ago from a apartment complex where her sister lives.

Police have arrested a person of interest in the case on unrelated charges on Saturday. Investigators are focusing on a few other people but decline to call them suspects.

In Littleton, Colorado a father-son golf outing that turned tragic. A bolt of lightning struck and killed a 47-year-old man at a driving range. His 16-year-old son survived and is in the hospital.

Getting the last laugh at the Indy 500. More like the Indy 450. It was shortened by rain this year. The winner, Buddy Rice. He is the first American to win since Eddie Cheaver Jr. back in 1998. And it was Cheaver who fired Rice last. His new boss? Late night comedian David Letterman. co-owner of the winning race team. Congratulations to all those.

Coming up, on CNN LIVE TODAY, you're going to meet a man with five million reasons to smile. The winner of the World Series in Poker joins us to talk about his new title.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

KAGAN: Let's visit with a guy who might want to think about quitting his day job. Greg Raymer is a patent attorney by day. But he is now $5 million richer after winning the World Series of Poker. Greg is joining us from Boston this morning. Good morning and congratulations.

GREG RAYMER, WORLD SERIES OF POKER CHAMP: Thank you very much. And I'm glad to be here.

KAGAN: I bet you are very glad. Put this in perspective for us. You're a patent attorney in Connecticut. And this whole journey started by entering a contest online? RAYMER: Correct. I entered a tournament on PokersStars.com and won a seat in the World Series plus expenses and a free hotel room. That was just two weeks, today actually. Two weeks ago yesterday.

KAGAN: Probably seems like years ago. Put in perspective how many people you beat in terms of the field so they can appreciate what you've done.

RAYMER: It was a massive record field this year because of the surge of popularity of poker on TV. And there were 2,576 entrants this year at $10,000 a head.

KAGAN: A lot of folks are professional players who are scratching their head saying, Greg who?

RAYMER: Well, actually, I'm familiar with and friends with quite a few of those professionals and I've played with them before. This will be my third time having played in the World Series championship event. I've played another big (UNINTELLIGIBLE) events like the World Poker Tour Event at Foxwoods. And so I've played...

KAGAN: All right, so you're not quite the unknown like last year's winner, Mr. moneymaker who like no one had ever heard of?

RAYMER: No, it is my understanding that Chris never played a live tournament of poker before in his life before he won his seat in the World Championship. And I've played in at least a dozen events with buy-ins of 5,000 or more.

KAGAN: They knew who you were. They knew that you're Greg "Fossilman" Raymer. What is the Fossilman about?

RAYMER: I bought this fossil at a rock and mineral show a few years ago.

KAGAN: Can you hold it up higher.

(CROSSTALK)

RAYMER: So I bought this just because when you play poker you want to have a good card protector. You want something to put on top of your cards to signify to the dealer that you don't want for fold.

And since this was a unique object and I thought it was fun and interesting, I bought it at this show. And then I started buying more fossils and occasionally selling them to fellow poker players so they could have a good card protector. It just became kind of my trademark when I played poker. So I always have them now when I go to the poker room.

KAGAN: Is that your best tip for me how to play poker well?

RAYMER: Is that my best tip?

KAGAN: Yes. Do you have something better for us? RAYMER: I can give you a better tip. Protecting your cards is a good fundamental. If you don't protect your cards, you're not going it win the hand.

My best tip for anyone who wants to become a good poker player is to treat it somewhat seriously. Go out and buy some good poker books, study and, you know, work hard at teaching yourself to make intelligent decision when you play the game.

KAGAN: And it doesn't hurt to be lucky?

RAYMER: Well, of course not. Is was extremely lucky. I had played better than I ever played for the last week, but I also was as lucky as anyone in the field.

KAGAN: So that helps. Five million bucks.

RAYMER: Yes.

KAGAN: Are you quitting your day job or will we see you at work tomorrow?

RAYMER: You'll probably see me in the office later today.

KAGAN: Really?

RAYMER: I've been out for a week and a half. And there are some things that have to be done so Pfizer doesn't lose any patents because of my absence. So I certainly don't want to harm their interests by my extended absence. And I will make sure that things are taken care of.

KAGAN: Long-term, you're going to keep the legal thing going?

RAYMER: I really don't have any firm decisions. This is a bit of a whirlwind at the moment with requests for interviews and requests to do endorsement deals, things that you don't really think about when you enter the tournament. Even if you're aware that they exist, it's just not something that seems real at the time.

KAGAN: And before we let you go, I have to ask you, the five million bucks , what are you going to do with all that cash?

RAYMER: I haven't made any firm decisions. Half of it will go to my backers. I actually have a long-term arrangement with people that have contributed to my playing bankroll which is completely separate from my income and personal money.

So the fact that I had a job that paid pretty well and I have a nice house and a lovely wife and a beautiful daughter, that money is all separate from the poker money. It's a completely separate thing. And so I have other people that have contributed to that and they're going to get about 2.4 of my 5 million.

KAGAN: Excellent point. It sounds like you play responsibly because it can turn into a problem for a lot of people. Congratulations.

RAYMER: Thank you. It's a pleasure.

KAGAN: Chris Raymer, the new world champ from the World Series of Poker.

RAYMER: That was Chris Moneymaker. I'm Greg Raymer.

KAGAN: Oh, sorry, Gregg. All right.

(CROSSTALK)

RAYMER: I appreciate you taking the time for me.

KAGAN: Enjoy the cash, five million and the title.

RAYMER: I will. Thank you so much.

KAGAN: Greg Raymer joining us from Boston.

You can keep your eye on entertainment 24/7 by pointing your Internet browser to cnn.com/entertainment. Among the highlights you'll find there, reviews of the latest movies, plus a famous author gets booed during a commencement address.

CNN LIVE TODAY rolls on after this quick break. We are standing by for the presidential wreath laying at the Tomb of the Unknowns.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

KAGAN: We are standing by. You can see it is a rainy day in the nation's capital. Any minute, you will see the president show up for the annual laying of the wreath laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery. While we wait for that to take place, let's bring in our Frank Buckley who is standing by at the White House -- Frank.

FRANK BUCKLEY, CNN NATIONAL CORRESPONDENT: Hey there, Daryn. We're expecting the president and Mrs. Bush both to participate in this wreath laying ceremony. It's the 136th observance of Memorial Day taking place at Arlington National Cemetery.

We're also expecting the president to make some remarks while he is there. We don't know yet exactly what he will say, but we can tell thaw in a proclamation issued by the president for the day that he recognizes one million Americans who have died in conflicts.

He also recognizes all those who have been declared missing in action and also prisoners of war. In fact, all veterans are being recognized on this day.

Also today, by proclamation, it is a day of prayer for permanent peace and the president is calling on those people who want to observe that to unite in prayer at 11:00 a.m. And also at 3:00 p.m. local time wherever you are. The president is asking for a national moment of remembrance. So those are some of the activities that are taking place today as we await the formal ceremony, laying of the wreath ceremony that takes place, a solemn ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery.

KAGAN: As we said, this is an annual event. This year's Memorial Day has definite flavor honoring World War II veterans.

BUCKLEY: It does. This weekend in Washington has been a special weekend for the dedication of the World War II Memorial. Wherever you go, you find World War II veterans.

I flew in on a flight from Los Angeles with Lilian Keil who is the woman who was the most decorated woman in the U.S. military. And it was a really special thing as our flight came in to Dulles, she worked for -- I see the president coming in. We'll continue to talk and we'll stop when we -- at the appropriate moment. But Lillian Keil is the most decorated woman. And she also worked for United Airlines. As we flew into Dulles, the captain came over the speaker and made an announcement and we came in under a water bridge which is a very special moment.

KAGAN: Let's go ahead and remain silent while we watch the president at this annual ceremony.

And President Bush completes the ceremony, the laying of the wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns.

Just to remind you, a refresher course, that tomb contains remains of unknown American soldiers from World War I, World War II, the Korean Conflict and until 1998 also from the Vietnam War. But, of course, in 1998 through DNA testing it was discovered that those remains actually belonged to First Lieutenant Michael Joseph Blassie and his remains were returned to his family in St. Louis, Missouri.

We do expect comments from President Bush in the next hour. You'll see that live on CNN. Meanwhile, since we're at the top of the hour, let's check the latest developments that we're following right now.

Honoring those who have fought and died in America's wars; President Bush taking part in Memorial Day ceremonies in Arlington, Virginia. Mr. Bush pays tribute to the nation's war dead in a speech this hour after laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns. You just saw that ceremony, of course, live here on CNN.

Assessing the damage after another round of violent weather in the Midwest. Three deaths are reported from tornadoes and storms that tore across the region. Some of the worst damage was in Marengo, Indiana where a storm destroyed at least 50 homes. An elderly man died when a twister struck his home.

Marking Memorial Day on the war front. U.S. troops in Afghanistan took time out to honor those who have fallen. Members of the army's 45th Infantry Brigade held a ceremony at Camp Phoenix. That is near Kabul. The military says 4 U.S. troops were killed fighting in Afghanistan over the weekend. It is just after 11:00 a.m. on the East Coast and just after 8:00 a.m. on the West. We're at CNN Center world headquarters in Atlanta. Good morning once again. I'm Daryn Kagan. Violent spring weather is up first. This hour on CNN, several communities across the Midwest are trying to get back on their feet this morning after a weekend tornado outbreak. 176 twisters were reported across 14 states. Our Keith Oppenhiem is in the hard-hit town of Marengo, Indiana this morning.

OPPENHEIM: Hi Daryn. Boy, what one tornado can do. Right now you see a lot of residents in Marengo. They're cleaning up, they're raking debris. They are using ladders; they're dealing with the fact that there are all sorts of utility lines that have created a tangle around their homes. And they're also trying to recover what they can. We have some other live camera perspectives to give you a sense of how people are assessing the damage. You have a good 50 homes or so that have been damaged here, at least. And there's a damage assessment team that's out busy right now trying to figure out just how bad it is throughout Crawford County, where we are. Take a look at this view of the telephone poles and the utility poles. Right now you have crews that are busy out here. They're going to take all of these down and basically have to reconstruct the wiring of this downtown.

Debris is pretty much strewn everywhere in downtown Marengo. If there is good news, it is relative in that there was only one fatality that took place in this community. And that is because of a gentleman who was in his mobile home. As neighbors told us, Daryn, the storm came through, toppled his home over and he died as a result of the damage on the inside. Right now, there are folks out here who are somewhat disconcerted by what they see. They see teams with cadaver dogs that are searching for possibly more bodies. But as far as we know, there are no missing people that we know of and there are no more people who have died in this community. But again, it takes so long to figure out just where everything is when you have this degree of damage. Back to you, Daryn.

KAGAN: A huge mess. Keith, local folks are talking about how much warning they had before the tornado hit.

OPPENHEIM: We've talked to people about that and they said they did have warning on television, radio and they were getting reports of tornado warnings. But they didn't really have a sense that it would come as quickly as it did right in this community. They're just not that used to it. And when the storm came in this rather hilly area, it came very quickly, and very loudly, as they often do and caused damage as people described it to us, in a matter of seconds.

KAGAN: Keith Oppenheim in Marengo, Indiana. Thank you.

Tornadoes in Kansas also damaged several homes and businesses this weekend. Two swarms of twisters struck six counties on opposite sides of the state on Saturday afternoon and evening. Just one minor injury was reported. But two traffic deaths are being linked to strong thunderstorms.

Cleanup today in the Missouri community of Weatherby where a weekend tornado killed three people. A mobile home was lifted off its face by a tornado Saturday night. Four children were among the injured there.

So what can folks expect today on this Memorial Day? A lot of people at home, not at work. Jacqui Jeras has the latest on that for us. Jacqui?

JACQUI JERAS, CNN WEATHER ANCHOR: Daryn, more severe weather will be expected for today. Especially across parts of the Southeast and into the Mid-Atlantic States. But we are not expecting the major outbreak that we had over the weekend, but still, you need to heed warning because we may get a few tornadoes today, though our primary risk is going to be damaging winds and large hail.

Take a look. This is a loop. This is an 18-hour loop. There you can see the line of severe thunderstorms, how extensive it was. Went from almost the Great Lakes all the way down to the Gulf Coast and continues marching on this morning. We're going to be watching areas like Mississippi, Alabama, southern Georgia and into the Florida Panhandle, I think, over the next couple of hours for potential severe weather.

We still have a severe thunderstorm watch in effect. Parts of the Carolinas including Charlotte down towards Columbia and into Fayetteville. Isolated severe thunderstorms expected through this area until 2:00 local time.

Our forecast for today then, showing you that storm system marching off towards the East. These storms eventually are going to be making their way towards the East Coast. We're going to get some of that daytime heating going on today. And that will help to trigger some of these showers and thunderstorms. And they're going to fire up all the way along that front, possibly even all the way over into eastern parts of Texas. Behind this system, some very blustery conditions. Strong winds with high wind warnings and advisories across the Dakotas down into Nebraska, even into parts of Colorado we're expecting to see breezy conditions.

Travel weather across the East, not good today. Delays out of Atlanta, Jackson-Hartsfield Airport already about 90 minutes. Looking good, though across the West.

If you're traveling across the West, this is the place to have your barbecues for today. You might think about not having them across parts of the East. Things are looking good across the West, but some big changes on the way there, Daryn. Heat is on the way. We've got heat advisories today across parts of southern Texas, also very hot around Orlando, but getting close to the one-teens in Phoenix by the end of the week.

KAGAN: The one-teens. Usually the Fourth of July is when the hot temperatures crack there in the Valley of the Sun. And that humidity comes in and things get really fun.

JERAS: Yeah, the monsoon.

KAGAN: Jacqui, thank you for that.

President Bush leads the nation in remembering falling servicemen and women who are fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan. Memorial Day takes on added significance this year. Our Sean Callebs is in Washington with a look at how some are marking the holiday. Sean, good morning again.

CALLEBS: Good morning to you, Daryn, as well. Indeed President Bush at Arlington National Cemetery right now. And a little bit later on today at the Vietnam Memorial Homeland Security chief Tom Ridge will be here marking a ceremony there. Ridge, of course, a Vietnam veteran himself. But if you talk to a lot of the veterans out this weekend, they say perhaps this holiday more than other Memorial holidays is really characterized by celebration rather than the somber nature of the holiday, recognizing those who fought and died for their country. And a lot of that has to do with the fact that so much attention this weekend is on World War II veterans. It began this morning in Washington with a parade winding its way through the capital city. There you see a number of vintage cars from the early '40s era as well as veterans taking part in that. That is significant because there were 16 million who served in World War II. Statistics tell us today there are only 4 million alive and that World War II veterans are passing away at an average of about 1,000 a day. But this weekend they also got to enjoy the opening of the memorial just for them. The World War II Memorial, not terribly far from where we're standing, costing $195 million. The temperature, the weather could not have been better. Close to 150,000 people, a lot of them World War II veterans out there. And we spoke with one Congressional Medal of Honor winner earlier today and he said this memorial was due.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

CPT. JACK LUCAS (RET.), WWII MEDAL OF HONOR RECIPIENT: And that memorial down there stands for all the blood, sweat and tears that America went through in World War II. We had 16 million people who stood up for America and caused us to maintain the freedom that we have. As a memorial to 400,000 or more men who died, giving their life for America.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

CALLEBS: And indeed we've seen a number of tourists out here. The buses keep pulling up. A lot of World War II veterans out here certainly enjoying the attention focused on "the Greatest Generation" this weekend. But also a number of young out here as well. Some young people going up to the vets, we saw them shaking their hands, telling them they're proud of them. It's certainly a welcome tribute to that group. Daryn, back to you.

KAGAN: Sean Callebs on the Mall in Washington, DC. And not too far away from there, in Arlington, Virginia, we're standing by. President Bush will be making remarks at Arlington National Cemetery. Also, Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld will take both sets of remarks live right here on CNN on this Memorial Day 2004.

Also there is news of more bloodshed in Iraq on this Memorial Day. A violent battle has once again claimed the lives of American soldiers. The latest details on that are coming up next.

And the Vice President in the hot seat. And denying a new report about connection to a big money deal for Halliburton.

And the dragnet tightens in the hunt for terrorists behind this weekend's deadly Saudi siege. CNN LIVE TODAY is back after this.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

KAGAN: A car bomb explosion killed at least two in Baghdad today, and clashes continued between U.S. troops and al-Sadr militiamen in the holy city of Kufa. CNN's Harris Whitbeck is in Baghdad with the latest on the fight for Iraq. Harris?

HARRIS WHITBECK, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Hello, Daryn. That car bomb went off not too far from the perimeter that defines the Green Zone here in Baghdad. The Green Zone being that secure area which houses the coalition provisional authority's headquarters. It left two people dead, and about 15 wounded. Two of them considered to be still in critical condition, according to a local hospital.

The bomb went off at about 1:30 this afternoon on a road that is commonly used by CPA officials and by members of the Iraqi governing council as they go to and from the CPA headquarters. Again, it left a very, very large crater, about eight feet wide by ten feet deep. And it damaged several buildings and cars that were parked nearby. Again, the toll in that car bomb was two people dead and about 15 wounded. Now, down near the holy city of Najaf, which has been the scene of lots of fighting recently, there was more fighting today between U.S. forces and members of Muqtada al-Sadr's militia.

The fighting took place in the nearby city of Kufa. Apparently a U.S. military patrol had gone on a reconnaissance mission when it was met by fire. The U.S. responded. The toll of the ensuing battle was two U.S. soldiers killed and, according to the U.S. military, about 45 militiamen were also killed.

Now on to the political story now. As you know, for the last several days the Iraqi governing council has been talking with the CPA officials and with the United Nations representatives about the formation of a new government which will take office next June 30th. While the name of the interim prime minister has pretty much been set, there has been a lot of talk about who will be Iraq's interim president. This is a largely ceremonial post but that post has become the focus of intense debate. Apparently the members of the Iraqi national -- the Iraqi governing council, rather, are favoring a younger leader of one of the bigger tribes in Iraq, he's based out of Mosul, to be the interim government. Ghazi Yarwha is currently the president of the governing council.

But from what we can gather both the United States and the United Nations are pressuring the council to choose Adnan Pachachi who is a longtime politician in Iraq, he was foreign minister back in the '60s before the pre-Saddam Hussein days. Apparently this discussion on the president is what has put a brake, if you will, on the official announcement of the new government. We expected that that would happen today. We're now being told it might happen over the next couple of days. Daryn?

KAGAN: And beyond specific names, Harris, what about the challenges in general of this not looking like a reshuffling of the deck of a government that's been too influenced by Americans?

WHITBECK: Well, that's exactly the perception among many here in Iraq, Daryn. And that's the perception among many members of the Iraqi governing council itself. Now one member today said that she wouldn't be surprised if a third name emerged in terms of a new interim President. A name of somebody who is not at all involved in the Iraqi governing council.

KAGAN: Harris Whitbeck in Baghdad. Thank you for that.

We want to go live now to Arlington National Cemetery and listen in to the ceremonies taking place. Here is General Richard Myers, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

(INTERRUPTED BY LIVE EVENT)

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Aired May 31, 2004 - 10:00   ET
THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.
DARYN KAGAN, CNN ANCHOR: Good morning from the CNN headquarters in Atlanta. I'm Daryn Kagan.
New violence in Iraq today, a car bomb killed at least two people and wounded 17 others on a Baghdad road. The explosion took place about 550 yards outside the Green Zone, where the U.S.-led coalition has its headquarters.

The floodwaters have fallen but the death toll is rising in the neighboring countries of Haiti and the Dominican Republic. More than 1400 have been killed and hundreds more are still missing. At least 30,000 people are homeless.

Vice President Dick Cheney's office denies he was involved in any coordinated effort to secure an Iraqi oil deal for Halliburton. On March 2003, a Pentagon e-mail published in this week's "Time" magazine said the contract had been awarded to Cheney's former employer and, quote, "Action has been coordinated with the vice president's office." One official said it was merely a routine advanced notice that a contract decision had been made.

And the Summer Olympics are costing Greece a billion dollars more than expected due to delays in construction and increased security costs. The Greek conservative party, which won power in March, has been criticizing the former socialist government for failing to control the spending on the Olympics.

Live this hour, the nation's commander in chief remembers those who have served and died in defense of the nation and its liberties. Near the end of the hour, President Bush will lay a wreath at Arlington's Cemetery Tomb of the Unknowns. CNN will carry that live, as well as Mr. Bush's remarks in the next hour.

But we're going to start with the severe weather. May is going out like a lion and much of the U.S. is bearing the scars of its wraths. Spring storms whipped up tornadoes and severe weather in more than a dozen states, many of them in the Midwest. At least three people have been killed, one of them is in Marengo, Indiana.

Our Keith Oppenheim joins us from there -- Keith.

KEITH OPPENHEIM, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Hi, Daryn. And what a tough morning here in Marengo; we're going to show you some unfortunately pretty devastating images from this town. Take a look at the debris that is just strewn in front of this house, all churned up from the tornado. It's all mixed together with trees and the contents of the home.

As we go to another live camera perspective, you can get a wider view of all of the damage in this area. You have people cleaning up using chain saws, pulling away branches. You have utility crews working right now. At least 50 homes were damaged in this community of 800. There is no power. There are emergency crews out now using cadaver dogs to search for potentially more dead bodies, but at this point only one confirmed fatality of an elderly gentleman.

We take you back to what we are looking at where I'm standing, which is a Ford Escort station wagon. Just to give you the view of what the power of a tornado can do to one object. The windshield is all bashed in from objects presumably hitting it, but the rest of the glass in the car is blown out. And all sorts of strange objects start to come into the car, like insulation foam, things that don't belong in this vehicle at all.

At this point, an emergency assessment is going on inside the city of Marengo. and emergency managers are doing their best to find out just where all of the damage is and how long it's going to take to clean it up. And as we look in the distance here, you can see just that long view of how many phone poles are down. Utility poles are down.

People kind of walking around in sort of a state of shock here, Daryn, because the degree of damage is so great, they're really trying to figure out how bad it is. And the naked eye proves some of it, but some of it, they have to look around and find out.

Back to you.

KAGAN: Keith Oppenheim in Marengo, Indiana. Thank you.

That is putting it in perspective in another way. I think we're OK.

JACQUI JERAS, CNN METEOROLOGIST: I think we're OK.

KAGAN: There we go. Jacqui Jeras is here. You were here over the weekend as well. Now, you know tornadoes. You've seen tornadoes. You've worked on tornados. And even you were overwhelmed by how much action there was.

JERAS: Yes. In fact, I've heard some rumors that this might be one of the greatest tornado outbreaks in recorded history. We had about 175 tornadoes from Saturday and Sunday, over the weekend alone and that is just phenomenal. We had such an outbreak yesterday. In fact, I think over five, 10-hour period, I probably had at least a dozen tornado warnings at any given time within that period.

KAGAN: You were earning your keep around here.

JERAS: Absolutely. It was a crazy night.

KAGAN: Did you bring power bars today?

JERAS: I did. Granola bars, though.

KAGAN: Because you are going to be going and moving. Great, we'll check back with you. Jacqui, thank you for that.

For all the latest on the threatening weather and an interactive feature that allows to you personalize your own forecast, visit our web site. The address is cnn.com/weather.

There are reports today of more fighting in Kufa. That is where a three-day truce has given way to intense battles between the U.S. forces and Shiite militiamen. Two Americans were killed in yesterday's firefights.

CNN's Guy Raz is embedded with the 237 Armored Battalion.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

GUY RAZ, CNN CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): This was supposed to be Day 3 of a truce. But as a recognizance patrol from Task Force 237 approached the center of town, insurgents opened fire from a cemetery near the Kufa mosque.

(GUNFIRE)

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: We're shooting at 2:00.

RAZ: For well over an hour, 100 U.S. troops, tanks and armored carriers fought a pitched battle with fighters loyal to cleric Muqtada al Sadr. Mehdi militia fighters remained holed up behind this wall of a Kufa cemetery. U.S. officials believe at least 30 suspected insurgents were killed in this fight. Rocket propelled grenades and small arms fire from the insurgents killed two U.S. soldiers as well. The first time U.S. troops have fallen in battle here in six weeks of fighting.

(GUNFIRE)

RAZ: The truce declared by Sadr's militia is viewed with considerable skepticism among U.S. forces.

PFC. NOAH FREEDMAN, U.S. ARMY: I didn't expect the other side to be respecting the cease-fire. I figured the other side; they were going to keep firing. I mean the first day of the cease-fire we took mortar fire here in this camp.

RAZ: Military commanders have temporarily suspended offensive operations. This is regarded as a defensive engagement.

LT. COL. PAT WHITE, U.S. ARMY: We will continue to develop the situation in Kufa to get a feel for what's going on with the Mehdi army. And at some point, Sadr is going to have to come out and tell the world, and at least Najaf, this is a situation that I'm in. Tell my guys to disarm and he's either going to have to disown the people in Kufa. And say hey, those aren't my guys over there; my guys are all over here with me. Or he's going to have to own up to those that are in the Mehdi army that are still inside that mosque with weapons, as you saw tonight.

RAZ: Six weeks since intense fighting broke out here, hundreds of insurgents have been killed. U.S. forces are hoping the latest fighting may finally force Muqtada al Sadr's hand.

Guy Raz, CNN, Kufa, Iraq.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

KAGAN: Let's take a closer look at some of the developments in Iraq. The political maneuvering drags on. Meaning the Iraqi Governing Council will not meet to select a new president today. Today, May 31 is the self-imposed deadline for a new government, but failure to do so should mean little in the long run.

The U.S. Embassy is due to officially open today in Iraq. And Iraqi police have ordered Ahmed Chalabi to vacant the Iraqi National Congress office in Ramadi, just west of Baghdad. Chalabi had once been a key link between Washington and Iraq, but he has fallen into disfavor.

We move on now. Nine minutes past the hour to Saudi Arabia. A manhunt is underway for three suspected al Qaeda militants, who fled just as commandos stormed the building where they had taken hostages. Twenty-two people died in the ordeal and shock waves could ripple to the world oil market.

Our senior international editor David Clench has that story.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

DAVID CLENCH, CNN SENIOR INT'L EDITOR (voice-over): The aftermath of a rampage, bloodstained floors, horrific reports of gunmen going room-to-room in search of westerners to kill, some victims having their throats slit. Witnesses say the body of a British oil executive was dragged through the streets behind a car. For more than 24 hours, Islamic militants terrorized this compound for overseas oil workers. Saudi security forces stormed the building where they had taken hostages. The Saudi say the group's leader was wounded and captured. But three others escaped.

The human toll from this weekend hostage taking is clear, the political and economic effect not yet so obvious. A statement from the al Qaeda linked group claiming responsibility, warns their fight to rid the Gulf of, quote, "crusaders" will continue. The British ambassador in Saudi Arabia warns more terror attacks may be in the final planning stages.

Saudi officials acknowledge the difficulty of fighting terror, but they say they have the situation under control.

NAIL AL JUBEIR, SPOKESMAN, SAUDI EMBASSY: Intent of al Qaeda from the beginning was to go after the Saudi state and the United States. That was their first intent. They almost succeeded. Now, they're trying to cripple the world economy by trying to send the message that foreigners are not safe in Saudi Arabia. It is a message that is broadcast around the world and that's what they're going for. I think they are safe; but it is a decision that each individual has to make.

CLENCH: After the attack, Saudi Arabia promised oil exports would not be affected, in an effort to calm nervous markets. And OPEC ministers say the Saudis will go ahead with their promise to raise production next month.

With the price of crude oil hovering around $40 a barrel, markets in London and New York have the Monday holiday to adjust from the news from Saudi Arabia.

David Clench, CNN.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

KAGAN: Here in the U.S., it has been a year and a half since a young, pregnant woman named Laci Peterson went missing. Now, the murder trial of her husband is set to begin tomorrow. A pre-preview of what to expect is straight ahead.

And making the ultimate sacrifice for freedom, troops remembered this Memorial Day.

And later, the hottest game in town has a new champ. Meet the man who took home millions for winning the World Series of Poker.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

KAGAN: Opening statements are scheduled to begin tomorrow in the double murder trial of Scott Peterson. The 31-year-old Modesto, California man could get the death penalty if convicted of killing his wife Laci and their unborn son. He says he's innocent. The Redwood City, California trial is expected to last up to six months.

Let's talk about the Peterson trial, also a new development surrounding the Martha Stewart case with attorney Tom Heiden. He focuses on difficult and high profile lawsuits. Mr. Heiden joining us from Chicago on this Memorial Day.

Good morning. Thank you for being here with us.

TOM HEIDEN, LEGAL ANALYST: Good morning, Daryn. How are you?

KAGAN: I'm doing great. Tomorrow, Scott Peterson's murder trial begins. So far, though, it appears the prosecution only has circumstantial evidence.

HEIDEN: I think all of the serious trial watchers ought to get ready for a classic trial. On the one hand, everybody in this country knows or thinks that they know that he did it and that he deserves to be convicted. On the other hand, is there any actual evidence that he actually killed anyone? On the other hand, is there any evidence that actually links Scott Peterson to this crime? Any DNA, any blood, any murder weapon, any eyewitness to anything.

KAGAN: Well, there are those pliers that might have one of Laci Peterson's hairs on it.

HEIDEN: Well, there are pliers that were sitting in a boat. A secret boat that nobody knew that he owned; but even so, I suppose most boats may have a set of pliers in them. Again, he cheated on his pregnant wife. He lied to his wife. He lied to his mistress. He lied to the police. He says he was fishing on Christmas Eve. Everyone intuitively knows that he's guilty. But is there any real evidence linking him to these crimes?

KAGAN: So the challenge for the defense will be, all right, so the guy is a scumbag of a husband. And he's not even a good boyfriend because he lies to his mistress, but it doesn't make him a murderer?

HEIDEN: And this will be an enormous challenge, Daryn, for the defense to keep reminding the jurors: it's your duty, it's your obligation to listen, to see if there is any evidence that shows that my client had something to do with these murders.

KAGAN: All right. Let's move on to Martha Stewart now. If folks were at work today, this would be the water cooler story of the day. Martha Stewart awaiting sentencing on her four felony convictions has hired -- I didn't even know this existed, a sentencing consultant. Who knew? I guess you would know in your world that high-priced people can hire these types?

HEIDEN: Well, I don't know anyone who hired a stay out of jail consultant before.

KAGAN: Yes. Well, apparently she has. And so she's come up with this idea with her sentencing consultant that oh, jail? Jail shmail. How about I do nice community service and teach women, low- income women on how to become entrepreneurs?

HEIDEN: It seems to me, Daryn, that Martha Stewart has absolutely nothing to lose by suggesting anything, something other than jail time. After all, she's been convicted now of four felonies and she's facing some real serious jail time. The suggestion, though, might be taken seriously by this judge and might put the judge in a very difficult position.

On the one hand, no jail time plays right into the public perception in this country that rich and important people play by a different set of rules and we see that with actual jurors everyday. On the other hand, there is another new development in this case. And Martha Stewart's main witness against her for the government has now been charged by the government with having perjured himself in his testimony against her. Maybe this judge can't bring herself to put Martha Stewart in jail on the basis of that perjured testimony.

KAGAN: Well, if there is that, then I know her attorneys have already asked for one new trial, or asked once. and that was denied based on the juror who didn't represent his past correctly. Won't they be pushing for a new trial based on this perjury testimony?

HEIDEN: Oh, absolutely. And it seems to me that this is a serious motion for a new trial. And that Martha Stewart may be entitle to do a new trial on the basis of a main government witness, who the government now says lied.

KAGAN: And let me just make the case. Because I was thinking about it when I first heard about this, I kind of snickered. But if you think about it, would Martha Stewart's time really be better spent behind bars or really could she have something to offer and do something productive in society? And when you compare what she did to what some of the other corporate big wigs are accused of doing it's really not the same.

HEIDEN: Seems to me it's really pretty minor stuff and she really does have something to offer to other people. Somebody ought look at this whole case and say we're not going to have a new trial because of the perjured testimony; we're not going to have any jail time either. We're going to send Martha Stewart off to teach and we're going to have this melodrama come to an end once and for all.

KAGAN: People will be looking at it. Tom Heiden, thanks for your time on Memorial Day.

HEIDEN: Appreciate it.

KAGAN: Tom Heiden joining us from Chicago.

A fighter pilot hit over Baghdad in the middle of the war.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

GARY TUCHMAN, CNN CORRESPONDENT (on camera): Do you think you're a hero?

KIM CAMPBELL, A-10 PILOT, U.S. AIR FORCE: No, not at all. I think, to me, you know, I was doing my job that day. And I'm very lucky to be back home.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

KAGAN: You're going to meet the pilot known as "Killer Chick." She recounts the day that she thought she might not make it back.

And weekend of remembering leading up to the holiday. We are live from Washington, D.C. for this Memorial Day.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

KAGAN: Her colleagues call her "Killer Chick." It's a sign of respect for the fighter pilot who survived a missile attack over Baghdad.

Our Gary Tuchman has her story.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

TUCHMAN: During the peak of the air war over Iraq, A-10 pilot Kim Campbell's life hung in the balance on a cloudy April night over Baghdad. (on camera): Do you think you're a hero?

CAMPBELL: No, not at all. I think, to me, you know, I was doing my job that day. And I'm very lucky to be back home.

TUCHMAN (voice-over): Luck had something to do with it. But Air Force colleagues say heroism did, too. Captain Campbell also known as "Killer Chick" or K.C. was hit by Iraqi fire over Baghdad. Her attack jet lost its hydraulic power. CNN was embedded with her squadron at the base on the Iraqi border where she safely landed.

QUESTION: Did you think you were going to be able make it back or that you would have to eject from the plane?

CAMPBELL: There was a quick second there I knew it was a possibility. But in my mind, I knew I had no desire to eject over Baghdad.

The experts believe a surface-to-air missile impacted somewhere in this area. And then, as it hit it, it sent shrapnel from the missile into both the inside of the right tail and also the fuselage here.

TUCHMAN: Casey is now back at North Carolina's Pope Air Force Base with her new A-10. Home since July, she says she remains a strong supporter of the U.S. role in Iraq.

CAMPBELL: No one said this was going to be easy. And you know, we know it was going to be tough, and we'll be there as long as the mission calls for it.

TUCHMAN: The 28-year-old has received awards in accolades. She makes two to three speeches a month, while continuing her training.

CAMPBELL: Our squadron will most likely be deploying later on this year. And I'm more than happy to go back.

TUCHMAN: Would you family not like to see you fly combat missions anymore?

CAMPBELL: They know I love what I do, and they know that I'm willing to take risks. And this is something I would be willing to give my life for, because I believe in it. And my parents aren't going to tell me that I can't do it. Certainly not at age 28 anyway!

TUCHMAN: Gary Tuchman, CNN, Pope Air Force Base, North Carolina.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

KAGAN: Coming up on CNN LIVE TODAY, remembering those who have their lives in the name of freedom, then and now.

And the fleet remains docked in New York. We're taking you aboard the USS Anzio for a Memorial Day visit.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

KAGAN: I'm Daryn Kagan. Let's check the stories making headlines at this hour. It is calmer in the Midwest this morning after some severe weather swept through. There were 84 tornado sightings in eight states Sunday. Three deaths are being blamed on the storms. One hard-hit area was southern Indiana; dozens of homes were destroyed or damaged in one small town.

Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon is threatening to fire cabinet members who oppose his U.S-backed withdrawal plans. Protesters gathered outside the yesterday's cabinet meeting, in which Sharon was seeking support of his pullout from Gaza and parts of the West Bank. The vote was postponed and his government thrown into uncertainty when it became clear that he lacked a majority.

Three months after he was ousted in a coup, former Haitian President Jean Bertrand Aristide has arrived today in South Africa. He had been living in Jamaica. Aristide calls South Africa his temporary home. He says he'll return to Haiti to restore his presidency.

The amount of time that you drive on the road may be your road to obesity. Researchers say there is a survey of more than 10,000 motorists showed the amount of time spent in cars had a greater impact on weight than income, education, gender or ethnicity. Here are the numbers every 30 minutes of commuting time meant an extra 3 percent chance of becoming obese.

Memorial Day has special meaning for U.S. forces serving in war zones, both in Iraq and Afghanistan. Our Ryan Chilcote is spending the holiday with troops in Afghanistan. That is where four U.S. troops were killed over the weekend. He files this report from Camp Phoenix which is just outside of Kabul.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

RYAN CHILCOTE, CNN CORRESPONDENT: We are at Camp Phoenix with Task Force Phoenix, a multinational force that is made up of several countries and several U.S. military units. But the bulk of the soldiers come from the Oklahoma National Guard.

Now, the U.S. servicemen and servicewomen from the Oklahoma National Guard back in the states are commonly referred to as citizen soldiers. These guardsman and guardswomen generally give about one weekend a month and two weeks a summer to the U.S. military.

But that all changed when they got called up to come here to Afghanistan in this unit's first long deployment since the Korean War. They are here training the Afghan National Army. They should be here at least for a few more months.

And just a short while ago, they paid tribute to veterans of U.S. military conflicts. And, in particular, of course, veterans from their own unit, from the 45th Infantry Brigade.

Now the 45th Infantry Brigade is also known as the Thunderbirds. The Thunderbirds played a very prominent role in World War II. They were in Italy, they were the south of France, they were in Germany. They actually liberated the Dachau concentration camp.

And they were also used very extensively in the Korean War. In fact, the Thunderbirds spent more time, more consecutive days in combat than any other U.S. infantry unit. Those soldiers here from the 45th Infantry Brigade here in Afghanistan paying tribute to veterans of U.S. conflicts and veterans of the 45th Infantry Brigade from other U.S. military conflicts.

Ryan Chilcote, CNN, Kabul, Afghanistan.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

KAGAN: Another note from Afghanistan, you might have missed this over the weekend. A U.S. Army investigation concludes that former NFL player Pat Tillman probably was killed by so-called friendly fire. Tillman, you may also recall, was so moved by the 9/11 attack that he walked away from a huge contract with the NFL, with the Arizona Cardinals, to join the Army Rangers.

Investigators believe an American mistakenly fired on an Afghan soldier in Tillman's unit and other U.S. troops then fired as well.

On this Memorial Day weekend, much of the nation's patriotism was on display on Washington's National Mall. That's the backdrop for our Sean Callebs on this holidays that salutes those who have served in the nation's armed services. Good morning.

SEAN CALLEBS, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Good morning to you, Daryn. Indeed a lot of tourists out here on this Monday holiday morning -- even though you can see behind me that it's very dismal, rainy, somewhat even chilly day in the nation's capital. But a lot of people have been out here throughout the morning.

President Bush is scheduled to lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns just about 30 minutes from now. Always a very sobering, very solemn, patriotic moment for those involved with the U.S. military.

Then later on this afternoon at 1:00 Eastern time, a few hours from now, Homeland Security Chief Tom Ridge will be at the Vietnam Memorial for a ceremony there. Ridge, of course, a Vietnam veteran himself.

But let me tell you what happened earlier this morning in this city. A parade wound its way through the area, highlighted by a number of vintage World War II vehicles and a number of World War II veterans. Really a step back in time for those veterans. And really the focus this holiday weekend has been on the World War II vets.

Of course, the unveiling of the World War II Memorial, not far from where we're standing, about 150,000 people turning out this weekend for the dedication for many Word War II vets. Including a gentleman we spoke with earlier this morning, said it was a long time coming.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP) CAPT. JACK LUCAS (RET.), WWII MEDAL OF HONOR RECIPIENT: Kind of late coming, almost 60 years after the war before we get a memorial. But it will be a lasting symbol of a great strife that occurred during World War II.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

CALLEBS: And take a look at this. This is a photograph that our producer came upon this morning. There you see President Bush -- former President George Bush -- and former President Clinton all wearing their sunglasses. To her kind of had that Blues Brothers feel. But really caught the celebration of this past weekend.

Perhaps former Senator Bob Dole summed it up best when he said, "This is not a memorial to war. Is this a tribute to all of those who served, of the physical and moral courage to turned farm boys and city boys into heroes." Daryn, back to you.

KAGAN: So no Jimmy Carter or Gerald Ford on hand?

CALLEBS: No Jimmy Carter or Gerald Ford on hand. To be honest with you, I presume they were invited. I don't know. Perhaps other engagements, perhaps another reason for not coming. I wish I knew the answer to that, Daryn, but I simply don't.

KAGAN: Didn't mean to stump you on this Memorial Day.

Another thing I want to ask you. There is so much talk about all of the security and the fears around that. How did that all run over the weekend?

CALLEBS: It went flawlessly, it went flawlessly. And really, even the weather cooperated with the greatest generation. The temperatures in the mid-70s so that had it been much warmer, it could have been very harsh on the elderly.

About a hundred people did need some medical assistance but security went off flawlessly. We had a chance to talk with people this morning walking around through here and they said everyone was wonderful, they were helpful. So this indeed a Memorial weekend to remember for those World War II vets.

KAGAN: Sean Callebs on the Mall in Washington, D.C.

Also on this this Memorial Day, all ashore in New York. Thousands of U.S. Marines and sailors have stormed the Big Apple. The annual celebration of Fleet Week is barreling full steam ahead. That's where we find our Jason Carroll. He is live from the deck of the USS Anzio. Jason, good morning.

JASON CARROLL, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Good morning to you, Daryn.

You know Fleet Week is really a way of saying thank you to the men and women who served. Part of the way to say thanks is letting them have some time off so they can hopefully enjoy the city and enjoy their families as well. CARROLL (voice-over): It's Fleet Week and Angel Alvarado is following tradition.

ANGEL ALVARADO, USS ANZIO: Going back there, those are our communications antennas.

CARROLL: Giving tours of ship, the USS Anzio.

ALVARADO: And watch your steps. Two steps up.

CARROLL: But this tour is different. This group is Alvarado's family.

MARIA ROSADO, SAILOR'S MOTHER: I'm so proud of him. I never dreamed that he would do all this.

ROSA ROSADO-CAMPBELL, SAILOR'S AUNT: Surprised about the amount of responsibility that he has in his hands, you know?

ALVARADO: You still see me as a little boy, is that right?

ROSADO-CAMPBELL: Well, no, no. But, you know, it's like...

(CROSSTALK)

CARROLL: It's the first time Alvarado has had a chance to have some of his family on board and show them what he does as chief petty officer.

ALVARADO: We have firefighting equipment all throughout the ship.

CARROLL: Alvarado hasn't been to the Middle East yet. But it's likely he'll go soon, an unsettling thought for him and his family.

ALVARADO: It's hard to have to explain something to a family member. But the bottom line is it's my job. I have to do it.

ALVARADO: It's worrisome. But, you know, I also said that god is so good and he's so great that he's going to protect him whatever he does.

SONIA ACEVEDO, SAILOR'S FAMILY FRIEND: He should stay here. He shouldn't go anywhere, as far as we're concerned.

CARROLL: For the time being, they're grateful to have him here.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: I love you so much. You know I do.

CARROLL: And treasuring their time with him now.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

CARROLL: Special thanks there to the Alvarado family for letting us spend time with them. As soon as Fleet Week is over, the USS Anzio will be heading back to their home port in Norfolk, Virginia for more training. Some of these other ships that are out here for Fleet Week will be heading back to the Middle East. Back to you.

KAGAN: Jason Carroll in New York City. Thank you, Jason.

Honoring the dead. Coming up later we are live at the Tomb of the Unknowns for the presidential wreath laying.

And the new man to beat in Vegas. You're going to meet the champ for the World Series of Poker. And he's not a professional gambler. What does he do for his day job? We will tell you. This is CNN LIVE TODAY.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

KAGAN: Let's take a look at the stories coast-to-coast. Hundreds of volunteers search the area around Corvallis, Oregon Sunday for Brooke Wilberger. The 19-year-old Brigham Young University student disappeared a week ago from a apartment complex where her sister lives.

Police have arrested a person of interest in the case on unrelated charges on Saturday. Investigators are focusing on a few other people but decline to call them suspects.

In Littleton, Colorado a father-son golf outing that turned tragic. A bolt of lightning struck and killed a 47-year-old man at a driving range. His 16-year-old son survived and is in the hospital.

Getting the last laugh at the Indy 500. More like the Indy 450. It was shortened by rain this year. The winner, Buddy Rice. He is the first American to win since Eddie Cheaver Jr. back in 1998. And it was Cheaver who fired Rice last. His new boss? Late night comedian David Letterman. co-owner of the winning race team. Congratulations to all those.

Coming up, on CNN LIVE TODAY, you're going to meet a man with five million reasons to smile. The winner of the World Series in Poker joins us to talk about his new title.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

KAGAN: Let's visit with a guy who might want to think about quitting his day job. Greg Raymer is a patent attorney by day. But he is now $5 million richer after winning the World Series of Poker. Greg is joining us from Boston this morning. Good morning and congratulations.

GREG RAYMER, WORLD SERIES OF POKER CHAMP: Thank you very much. And I'm glad to be here.

KAGAN: I bet you are very glad. Put this in perspective for us. You're a patent attorney in Connecticut. And this whole journey started by entering a contest online? RAYMER: Correct. I entered a tournament on PokersStars.com and won a seat in the World Series plus expenses and a free hotel room. That was just two weeks, today actually. Two weeks ago yesterday.

KAGAN: Probably seems like years ago. Put in perspective how many people you beat in terms of the field so they can appreciate what you've done.

RAYMER: It was a massive record field this year because of the surge of popularity of poker on TV. And there were 2,576 entrants this year at $10,000 a head.

KAGAN: A lot of folks are professional players who are scratching their head saying, Greg who?

RAYMER: Well, actually, I'm familiar with and friends with quite a few of those professionals and I've played with them before. This will be my third time having played in the World Series championship event. I've played another big (UNINTELLIGIBLE) events like the World Poker Tour Event at Foxwoods. And so I've played...

KAGAN: All right, so you're not quite the unknown like last year's winner, Mr. moneymaker who like no one had ever heard of?

RAYMER: No, it is my understanding that Chris never played a live tournament of poker before in his life before he won his seat in the World Championship. And I've played in at least a dozen events with buy-ins of 5,000 or more.

KAGAN: They knew who you were. They knew that you're Greg "Fossilman" Raymer. What is the Fossilman about?

RAYMER: I bought this fossil at a rock and mineral show a few years ago.

KAGAN: Can you hold it up higher.

(CROSSTALK)

RAYMER: So I bought this just because when you play poker you want to have a good card protector. You want something to put on top of your cards to signify to the dealer that you don't want for fold.

And since this was a unique object and I thought it was fun and interesting, I bought it at this show. And then I started buying more fossils and occasionally selling them to fellow poker players so they could have a good card protector. It just became kind of my trademark when I played poker. So I always have them now when I go to the poker room.

KAGAN: Is that your best tip for me how to play poker well?

RAYMER: Is that my best tip?

KAGAN: Yes. Do you have something better for us? RAYMER: I can give you a better tip. Protecting your cards is a good fundamental. If you don't protect your cards, you're not going it win the hand.

My best tip for anyone who wants to become a good poker player is to treat it somewhat seriously. Go out and buy some good poker books, study and, you know, work hard at teaching yourself to make intelligent decision when you play the game.

KAGAN: And it doesn't hurt to be lucky?

RAYMER: Well, of course not. Is was extremely lucky. I had played better than I ever played for the last week, but I also was as lucky as anyone in the field.

KAGAN: So that helps. Five million bucks.

RAYMER: Yes.

KAGAN: Are you quitting your day job or will we see you at work tomorrow?

RAYMER: You'll probably see me in the office later today.

KAGAN: Really?

RAYMER: I've been out for a week and a half. And there are some things that have to be done so Pfizer doesn't lose any patents because of my absence. So I certainly don't want to harm their interests by my extended absence. And I will make sure that things are taken care of.

KAGAN: Long-term, you're going to keep the legal thing going?

RAYMER: I really don't have any firm decisions. This is a bit of a whirlwind at the moment with requests for interviews and requests to do endorsement deals, things that you don't really think about when you enter the tournament. Even if you're aware that they exist, it's just not something that seems real at the time.

KAGAN: And before we let you go, I have to ask you, the five million bucks , what are you going to do with all that cash?

RAYMER: I haven't made any firm decisions. Half of it will go to my backers. I actually have a long-term arrangement with people that have contributed to my playing bankroll which is completely separate from my income and personal money.

So the fact that I had a job that paid pretty well and I have a nice house and a lovely wife and a beautiful daughter, that money is all separate from the poker money. It's a completely separate thing. And so I have other people that have contributed to that and they're going to get about 2.4 of my 5 million.

KAGAN: Excellent point. It sounds like you play responsibly because it can turn into a problem for a lot of people. Congratulations.

RAYMER: Thank you. It's a pleasure.

KAGAN: Chris Raymer, the new world champ from the World Series of Poker.

RAYMER: That was Chris Moneymaker. I'm Greg Raymer.

KAGAN: Oh, sorry, Gregg. All right.

(CROSSTALK)

RAYMER: I appreciate you taking the time for me.

KAGAN: Enjoy the cash, five million and the title.

RAYMER: I will. Thank you so much.

KAGAN: Greg Raymer joining us from Boston.

You can keep your eye on entertainment 24/7 by pointing your Internet browser to cnn.com/entertainment. Among the highlights you'll find there, reviews of the latest movies, plus a famous author gets booed during a commencement address.

CNN LIVE TODAY rolls on after this quick break. We are standing by for the presidential wreath laying at the Tomb of the Unknowns.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

KAGAN: We are standing by. You can see it is a rainy day in the nation's capital. Any minute, you will see the president show up for the annual laying of the wreath laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery. While we wait for that to take place, let's bring in our Frank Buckley who is standing by at the White House -- Frank.

FRANK BUCKLEY, CNN NATIONAL CORRESPONDENT: Hey there, Daryn. We're expecting the president and Mrs. Bush both to participate in this wreath laying ceremony. It's the 136th observance of Memorial Day taking place at Arlington National Cemetery.

We're also expecting the president to make some remarks while he is there. We don't know yet exactly what he will say, but we can tell thaw in a proclamation issued by the president for the day that he recognizes one million Americans who have died in conflicts.

He also recognizes all those who have been declared missing in action and also prisoners of war. In fact, all veterans are being recognized on this day.

Also today, by proclamation, it is a day of prayer for permanent peace and the president is calling on those people who want to observe that to unite in prayer at 11:00 a.m. And also at 3:00 p.m. local time wherever you are. The president is asking for a national moment of remembrance. So those are some of the activities that are taking place today as we await the formal ceremony, laying of the wreath ceremony that takes place, a solemn ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery.

KAGAN: As we said, this is an annual event. This year's Memorial Day has definite flavor honoring World War II veterans.

BUCKLEY: It does. This weekend in Washington has been a special weekend for the dedication of the World War II Memorial. Wherever you go, you find World War II veterans.

I flew in on a flight from Los Angeles with Lilian Keil who is the woman who was the most decorated woman in the U.S. military. And it was a really special thing as our flight came in to Dulles, she worked for -- I see the president coming in. We'll continue to talk and we'll stop when we -- at the appropriate moment. But Lillian Keil is the most decorated woman. And she also worked for United Airlines. As we flew into Dulles, the captain came over the speaker and made an announcement and we came in under a water bridge which is a very special moment.

KAGAN: Let's go ahead and remain silent while we watch the president at this annual ceremony.

And President Bush completes the ceremony, the laying of the wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns.

Just to remind you, a refresher course, that tomb contains remains of unknown American soldiers from World War I, World War II, the Korean Conflict and until 1998 also from the Vietnam War. But, of course, in 1998 through DNA testing it was discovered that those remains actually belonged to First Lieutenant Michael Joseph Blassie and his remains were returned to his family in St. Louis, Missouri.

We do expect comments from President Bush in the next hour. You'll see that live on CNN. Meanwhile, since we're at the top of the hour, let's check the latest developments that we're following right now.

Honoring those who have fought and died in America's wars; President Bush taking part in Memorial Day ceremonies in Arlington, Virginia. Mr. Bush pays tribute to the nation's war dead in a speech this hour after laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns. You just saw that ceremony, of course, live here on CNN.

Assessing the damage after another round of violent weather in the Midwest. Three deaths are reported from tornadoes and storms that tore across the region. Some of the worst damage was in Marengo, Indiana where a storm destroyed at least 50 homes. An elderly man died when a twister struck his home.

Marking Memorial Day on the war front. U.S. troops in Afghanistan took time out to honor those who have fallen. Members of the army's 45th Infantry Brigade held a ceremony at Camp Phoenix. That is near Kabul. The military says 4 U.S. troops were killed fighting in Afghanistan over the weekend. It is just after 11:00 a.m. on the East Coast and just after 8:00 a.m. on the West. We're at CNN Center world headquarters in Atlanta. Good morning once again. I'm Daryn Kagan. Violent spring weather is up first. This hour on CNN, several communities across the Midwest are trying to get back on their feet this morning after a weekend tornado outbreak. 176 twisters were reported across 14 states. Our Keith Oppenhiem is in the hard-hit town of Marengo, Indiana this morning.

OPPENHEIM: Hi Daryn. Boy, what one tornado can do. Right now you see a lot of residents in Marengo. They're cleaning up, they're raking debris. They are using ladders; they're dealing with the fact that there are all sorts of utility lines that have created a tangle around their homes. And they're also trying to recover what they can. We have some other live camera perspectives to give you a sense of how people are assessing the damage. You have a good 50 homes or so that have been damaged here, at least. And there's a damage assessment team that's out busy right now trying to figure out just how bad it is throughout Crawford County, where we are. Take a look at this view of the telephone poles and the utility poles. Right now you have crews that are busy out here. They're going to take all of these down and basically have to reconstruct the wiring of this downtown.

Debris is pretty much strewn everywhere in downtown Marengo. If there is good news, it is relative in that there was only one fatality that took place in this community. And that is because of a gentleman who was in his mobile home. As neighbors told us, Daryn, the storm came through, toppled his home over and he died as a result of the damage on the inside. Right now, there are folks out here who are somewhat disconcerted by what they see. They see teams with cadaver dogs that are searching for possibly more bodies. But as far as we know, there are no missing people that we know of and there are no more people who have died in this community. But again, it takes so long to figure out just where everything is when you have this degree of damage. Back to you, Daryn.

KAGAN: A huge mess. Keith, local folks are talking about how much warning they had before the tornado hit.

OPPENHEIM: We've talked to people about that and they said they did have warning on television, radio and they were getting reports of tornado warnings. But they didn't really have a sense that it would come as quickly as it did right in this community. They're just not that used to it. And when the storm came in this rather hilly area, it came very quickly, and very loudly, as they often do and caused damage as people described it to us, in a matter of seconds.

KAGAN: Keith Oppenheim in Marengo, Indiana. Thank you.

Tornadoes in Kansas also damaged several homes and businesses this weekend. Two swarms of twisters struck six counties on opposite sides of the state on Saturday afternoon and evening. Just one minor injury was reported. But two traffic deaths are being linked to strong thunderstorms.

Cleanup today in the Missouri community of Weatherby where a weekend tornado killed three people. A mobile home was lifted off its face by a tornado Saturday night. Four children were among the injured there.

So what can folks expect today on this Memorial Day? A lot of people at home, not at work. Jacqui Jeras has the latest on that for us. Jacqui?

JACQUI JERAS, CNN WEATHER ANCHOR: Daryn, more severe weather will be expected for today. Especially across parts of the Southeast and into the Mid-Atlantic States. But we are not expecting the major outbreak that we had over the weekend, but still, you need to heed warning because we may get a few tornadoes today, though our primary risk is going to be damaging winds and large hail.

Take a look. This is a loop. This is an 18-hour loop. There you can see the line of severe thunderstorms, how extensive it was. Went from almost the Great Lakes all the way down to the Gulf Coast and continues marching on this morning. We're going to be watching areas like Mississippi, Alabama, southern Georgia and into the Florida Panhandle, I think, over the next couple of hours for potential severe weather.

We still have a severe thunderstorm watch in effect. Parts of the Carolinas including Charlotte down towards Columbia and into Fayetteville. Isolated severe thunderstorms expected through this area until 2:00 local time.

Our forecast for today then, showing you that storm system marching off towards the East. These storms eventually are going to be making their way towards the East Coast. We're going to get some of that daytime heating going on today. And that will help to trigger some of these showers and thunderstorms. And they're going to fire up all the way along that front, possibly even all the way over into eastern parts of Texas. Behind this system, some very blustery conditions. Strong winds with high wind warnings and advisories across the Dakotas down into Nebraska, even into parts of Colorado we're expecting to see breezy conditions.

Travel weather across the East, not good today. Delays out of Atlanta, Jackson-Hartsfield Airport already about 90 minutes. Looking good, though across the West.

If you're traveling across the West, this is the place to have your barbecues for today. You might think about not having them across parts of the East. Things are looking good across the West, but some big changes on the way there, Daryn. Heat is on the way. We've got heat advisories today across parts of southern Texas, also very hot around Orlando, but getting close to the one-teens in Phoenix by the end of the week.

KAGAN: The one-teens. Usually the Fourth of July is when the hot temperatures crack there in the Valley of the Sun. And that humidity comes in and things get really fun.

JERAS: Yeah, the monsoon.

KAGAN: Jacqui, thank you for that.

President Bush leads the nation in remembering falling servicemen and women who are fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan. Memorial Day takes on added significance this year. Our Sean Callebs is in Washington with a look at how some are marking the holiday. Sean, good morning again.

CALLEBS: Good morning to you, Daryn, as well. Indeed President Bush at Arlington National Cemetery right now. And a little bit later on today at the Vietnam Memorial Homeland Security chief Tom Ridge will be here marking a ceremony there. Ridge, of course, a Vietnam veteran himself. But if you talk to a lot of the veterans out this weekend, they say perhaps this holiday more than other Memorial holidays is really characterized by celebration rather than the somber nature of the holiday, recognizing those who fought and died for their country. And a lot of that has to do with the fact that so much attention this weekend is on World War II veterans. It began this morning in Washington with a parade winding its way through the capital city. There you see a number of vintage cars from the early '40s era as well as veterans taking part in that. That is significant because there were 16 million who served in World War II. Statistics tell us today there are only 4 million alive and that World War II veterans are passing away at an average of about 1,000 a day. But this weekend they also got to enjoy the opening of the memorial just for them. The World War II Memorial, not terribly far from where we're standing, costing $195 million. The temperature, the weather could not have been better. Close to 150,000 people, a lot of them World War II veterans out there. And we spoke with one Congressional Medal of Honor winner earlier today and he said this memorial was due.

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CPT. JACK LUCAS (RET.), WWII MEDAL OF HONOR RECIPIENT: And that memorial down there stands for all the blood, sweat and tears that America went through in World War II. We had 16 million people who stood up for America and caused us to maintain the freedom that we have. As a memorial to 400,000 or more men who died, giving their life for America.

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CALLEBS: And indeed we've seen a number of tourists out here. The buses keep pulling up. A lot of World War II veterans out here certainly enjoying the attention focused on "the Greatest Generation" this weekend. But also a number of young out here as well. Some young people going up to the vets, we saw them shaking their hands, telling them they're proud of them. It's certainly a welcome tribute to that group. Daryn, back to you.

KAGAN: Sean Callebs on the Mall in Washington, DC. And not too far away from there, in Arlington, Virginia, we're standing by. President Bush will be making remarks at Arlington National Cemetery. Also, Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld will take both sets of remarks live right here on CNN on this Memorial Day 2004.

Also there is news of more bloodshed in Iraq on this Memorial Day. A violent battle has once again claimed the lives of American soldiers. The latest details on that are coming up next.

And the Vice President in the hot seat. And denying a new report about connection to a big money deal for Halliburton.

And the dragnet tightens in the hunt for terrorists behind this weekend's deadly Saudi siege. CNN LIVE TODAY is back after this.

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KAGAN: A car bomb explosion killed at least two in Baghdad today, and clashes continued between U.S. troops and al-Sadr militiamen in the holy city of Kufa. CNN's Harris Whitbeck is in Baghdad with the latest on the fight for Iraq. Harris?

HARRIS WHITBECK, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Hello, Daryn. That car bomb went off not too far from the perimeter that defines the Green Zone here in Baghdad. The Green Zone being that secure area which houses the coalition provisional authority's headquarters. It left two people dead, and about 15 wounded. Two of them considered to be still in critical condition, according to a local hospital.

The bomb went off at about 1:30 this afternoon on a road that is commonly used by CPA officials and by members of the Iraqi governing council as they go to and from the CPA headquarters. Again, it left a very, very large crater, about eight feet wide by ten feet deep. And it damaged several buildings and cars that were parked nearby. Again, the toll in that car bomb was two people dead and about 15 wounded. Now, down near the holy city of Najaf, which has been the scene of lots of fighting recently, there was more fighting today between U.S. forces and members of Muqtada al-Sadr's militia.

The fighting took place in the nearby city of Kufa. Apparently a U.S. military patrol had gone on a reconnaissance mission when it was met by fire. The U.S. responded. The toll of the ensuing battle was two U.S. soldiers killed and, according to the U.S. military, about 45 militiamen were also killed.

Now on to the political story now. As you know, for the last several days the Iraqi governing council has been talking with the CPA officials and with the United Nations representatives about the formation of a new government which will take office next June 30th. While the name of the interim prime minister has pretty much been set, there has been a lot of talk about who will be Iraq's interim president. This is a largely ceremonial post but that post has become the focus of intense debate. Apparently the members of the Iraqi national -- the Iraqi governing council, rather, are favoring a younger leader of one of the bigger tribes in Iraq, he's based out of Mosul, to be the interim government. Ghazi Yarwha is currently the president of the governing council.

But from what we can gather both the United States and the United Nations are pressuring the council to choose Adnan Pachachi who is a longtime politician in Iraq, he was foreign minister back in the '60s before the pre-Saddam Hussein days. Apparently this discussion on the president is what has put a brake, if you will, on the official announcement of the new government. We expected that that would happen today. We're now being told it might happen over the next couple of days. Daryn?

KAGAN: And beyond specific names, Harris, what about the challenges in general of this not looking like a reshuffling of the deck of a government that's been too influenced by Americans?

WHITBECK: Well, that's exactly the perception among many here in Iraq, Daryn. And that's the perception among many members of the Iraqi governing council itself. Now one member today said that she wouldn't be surprised if a third name emerged in terms of a new interim President. A name of somebody who is not at all involved in the Iraqi governing council.

KAGAN: Harris Whitbeck in Baghdad. Thank you for that.

We want to go live now to Arlington National Cemetery and listen in to the ceremonies taking place. Here is General Richard Myers, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

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