More than 3,000 Albuquerque community members expressed support for U.S. soldiers fighting abroad Friday at Civic Plaza.
Two F-16 warplanes from Kirtland Air Force Base roared overhead as the crowd cheered “USA” and displayed patriotism by distributing yellow ribbons and “support our troops” bumper stickers.
The American Legion Post 13 bagpipe band played in honor of U.S. troops overseas as crowd members consoled each other and thanked those who have family engaged in the conflict for their sacrifice.
Linda Jackson, who has two family members preparing to deploy to Iraq, said that it is important for the country to come together in these trying times and support those who are putting their lives on the line to support our way of life.
“People easily forget that the cost of freedom has been bled on many battlefields by courageous U.S. soldiers many times,” said Jackson, a one-time Vietnam era anti-war protestor who is behind the operation to liberate the Iraqi people.
“This is something that affects all of us,” Jackson said. “We need to do everything in our power to prevent another 9-11.”
City Councilor Sally Mayer, who sponsored a council bill last week that was unanimously passed urging citizens to join the rally, said she felt that a lot of people wanted to show their support and pride for the troops defending the nation’s freedom and that they needed a positive avenue to focus that energy.
“This rally isn’t about whether or not you support the war in Iraq, but rather a necessity to show support for the men and women who are valiantly and honorably serving their country,” Mayer said.
Several large banners, which will eventually be sent to U.S. troops oversees, were available to be signed in support of the soldiers.
Deborah Trumbul, whose husband is a Marine lieutenant fighting in Iraq, helped organize the production of customized, patriotic dog tags to be sent to U.S. soldiers. She said the honor and pride shown by those in attendance of the rally made her proud to be an American.
“The unity in this crowd exemplifies the strength and character of our nation,” Trumbul said.
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A small group of anti-war protestors rallying at Civic Plaza were met with chants of “go home, cowards” by Vietnam and World War II veterans.
The anti-war protestors were later escorted from the plaza for their own protection, said an officer from the Albuquerque Police Department.
Mayor Martin Ch†vez read the names of U.S. soldiers who have been killed in Operation Iraqi Freedom, as well as those considered missing or held as prisoners of war.
“Although none of us hope for war as a means to resolve issues, a new generation of Americans have been called upon to defend our nation and it is in honor of those great people that we are here,” Ch†vez said.
Mike Shelby, pastor of the Church of God ministry, addressed the crowd and said that the price is high for the American dream and that the American public owes a debt of gratitude to the courageous men and women that are paying that price.
“Thank God for the courageous young patriots who are defending our way of life, our search for liberty and peace on earth,” Shelby said.
He asked for a moment of silence from the crowd in memory of U.S. soldiers who have lost their lives in the war on terrorism and for a speedy conclusion to the conflict in Iraq.
