A relative of Iraqi journalist Muntadhar al-Zeidi decorates a poster on Sunday bearing al-Zeidi's photograph in preparation for his release from jail. The poster in Arabic reads: "Release the one who regained Iraqis dignity." (Karim Kadim/Associated Press)The Iraqi journalist who threw his shoes at George W. Bush last December will be getting out of jail on Monday, his family says.

Muntadhar al-Zeidi hurled two shoes at the then-U.S. president during a joint news conference with the Iraqi prime minister in Baghdad.

Television cameras captured the scene as Bush ducked twice and was unhurt.

"This is your farewell kiss, you dog," al-Zeidi shouted. "This is for the widows and orphans of Iraq."

Al-Zeidi, 30, was sentenced to three years in prison, but the sentence was reduced on appeal.

His release will be celebrated by fellow Iraqis who feel his act of protest helped to express their own bitterness over the U.S.-led invasion and occupation of their country, which began in March 2003.

Excited flag-waving family members have posted al-Zeidi's picture and balloons on the walls of his apartment in central Baghdad, to welcome him home.

His former employer has bought him a new four-bedroom house and a car.

There are reports that al-Baghdadiya TV has kept his job available to him and believes he will return to work there.

However, his brother, Dargham, told The Associated Press the reporter is interested in working in a humanitarian or human-rights organization.

With files from The Associated Press