Watch: Rebels Storm Gaddafi Compound in Libya, Celebrate on Camera

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Zohra Bensemra / Reuters

Rebels stormed into Bab al-Aziziya, Muammar Gaddafi’s compound, symbolizing the start of a “new Libya,” according to rebels celebrating inside the compound, by destroying images of old Libya.

Gaddafi’s high-walled home south of Tripoli’s center fell amidst gunfire and death. But once inside, rebels hoisted their own flags, ripped up posters and toppled the head of a statue. Videos are surfacing of the compound raid.

(PHOTOS: Libyan Rebels Battle Muammar Gaddafi’s Forces)

Each rebel has their own way of celebrating, whether ripping a poster or firing a rifle:

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1xGOwqqyBV4&w=450]

Posing for cameras is a routine post-victory ritual:

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=phPeCYjNKDs&w=450]

Rebels take a few moments to let the world know how exciting it was to wear Gaddafi’s hat, among other things”

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1fZhEJwWD4s&feature=watch_response&w=450]

The battle explained, by CNN:

[vodpod id=Video.15313044&w=425&h=350&fv=]

MORE: Libya Rebels Overrun Gaddafi Compound

Tim Newcomb is a contributor for TIME. Find him on Twitter at @tdnewcomb. You can also continue the discussion on TIME’s Facebook page and on Twitter at @TIME.