Posted on 04/05/2003 7:48:46 AM PST by Excuse_My_Bellicosity
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (NNS) -- Some high humidity and summer-like temperatures weren’t enough to deter many in the Jacksonville community from coming out March 29 to show their support for U.S. troops currently deployed for Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Organizers for Operation Support Our Troops estimated some 2,000 members of the Jacksonville community turned out for the event at the Duval County Veterans’ Memorial Wall downtown.
“I felt that something positive needed to happen in Jacksonville,” said Cindi Davis, event organizer. “The troops overseas are going to receive a tape of this event.”
Amid numerous pro-U.S. chants and cheers, many turned out with homemade posters and signs proclaiming support for the armed forces. The rally also featured patriotic music and plenty of flag-waving, as the crowd burst into numerous cheers following each song.
U.S. Rep. Ander Crenshaw added his voice of support for the troops at the event, and a letter from Florida Gov. Jeb Bush was read to those gathered.
“I think an event like this is extremely important, especially if the message can get out to those who are serving,” said Patrol Squadron 30’s Aircrew Survival Equipmentman (AW/PJ) Louis Tavares. “It’s important to show those serving that they do in fact have support from home.”
Tavares, who’s enjoyed duty in Jacksonville a total of 17 years during his career, said the city’s love for the military is clearly evident by the number of those who turned out for the event. “I think this is the best military town in the nation,” he added.
For Jacksonville residents Terry and Carolyn Davis, the rally held special meaning. Their son, Army Pfc. Ryan Davis, is currently deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. “This was wonderful to see so many out here in support of our nation’s military,” Carolyn said.
Both remarked the turn out showed just how pro-military Jacksonville is. “We moved here just over a year ago,” Terry said. “It’s a good feeling to see a turnout such as this.”
For related news, visit the Naval Air Station Jacksonville Navy NewsStand page at www.news.navy.mil/local/nasjax.
030322-N-6477M-003 Bellevue, Wash. (Mar. 22, 2003) -- Local residents take part in a troop support rally in Bellevue hosted by Operation Support Our Troops. The mission of Operation Support Our Troops is to provide a process and forum for Americans of diverse interests, backgrounds and walks of life to come together to demonstrate to members of the Armed Forces and their Commander in Chief that they are supported and deeply appreciated for their service. The goal is to ensure that they know that United We Stand and Divided We Fall are not empty words, but words to which we subscribe. According to Bellevue police, over nine thousand people showed up for a very peaceful rally. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer’s Mate 2nd Class Eli Jody Medellin. (RELEASED)
Print it. Email it. Send it to the troops!
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.
