The following are a series of photos taken at the "Support Our Troops" rally
held from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM on February 15th, 2003. These were all
taken at one location, an overpass over I-5 near McChord Air Force Base.
It is estimated that between 1200 and 1500 people turned out for this rally,
and that they convered three overpasses over the I-5 freeway. (A private
report by cellphone indicated that there were 4 or 5 anti-war protestors
on the fourth overpass southbound, and that by comparison they looked pathetic.)
Though the weather was gray and threatening it did not dampen the enthusiasm
of the participants - some of whom came for as far away as Montana.
All flags great and small were waved with equal fervor as passing motorists
treated the crowd to the strains of "I am Proud to be an American"
and the National Anthem along with a symphony of horns of every type and
key.
Entire families (some four generations strong) stood along the road smiling,
waving and commenting on some of the creative displays.
This fellow didn't mince words - he just came right out and spoke his mind.
Freedom of speech is still protected - even if we don't all agree.
Some came with photos of their loved ones stationed abroad - this mother's
son is in Kuwait today.
Grateful Vietnamese Americans once held hostage by communism to their North
unfurled a banner in their country's colors saying Thank You.
Have scooter will travel, and she did. Count her among the brave.
One of Olympia's shining stars, Representative Mike Carrell came to lend
his support. This one hits close to home - he knows someone "over there."
Way to go, Mike....
