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Students and veterans gathered on the University of Maine mall yesterday, exactly two months after terrorists attacked the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, to attend the Support of America rally. The rally was organized to honor those who have served in the military and those who are fighting today.
The event was sponsored by the University of Maine College Republicans. An opening address was given by Matthew Allen, chairman of the group. He said more than 600 college and university campuses across the nation were holding a rally such as this at the same time to show support for America.
“This rally represents the mainstream opinion right now – that we support our veterans and our president,” Allen said.
Allen then introduced four veterans who were present at the rally. Jeffrey Forker, Jon Renard and Walter McAllister are all army veterans who served in Vietnam. Roger Parent is a Navy veteran who served in Korea.
Renard was the keynote speaker for the event and spoke of the need to support our troops who are overseas and fighting because of the events of Sept. 11.
“We all know that this isn’t an ordinary Veteran’s Day,” Renard said. “Sept. 11 is still close to our hearts. Many of our loved ones have been called to service.”
Renard said it is important to pray for those who lost their lives in the World Trade Center and for the troops who are fighting because of the attacks. He also expressed his faith that America would be steadfast in this fight against Osama bin Laden and the terrorists.
“Bin Laden thought we lacked resolve,” he said. “This is America. We won’t back down.”
Renard also addressed the students who are involved in the Army ROTC and said they are the future of our country’s leaders.
Allen closed the ceremony by thanking everyone for attending and said their support is evidence that the youth of America is still supporting the troops and President George W. Bush.
Allen, who is also the chair of the College Republicans for the state of Maine, said that other Maine schools participating in the Support for America rally included the University of Southern Maine, Colby College, Bates College, Bowdoin College and St. Joseph’s College.
The rally was a way to remember and continue to show patriotism, Allen said.
“This is the second month since the terrorist attacks, and we wanted to do something to support our veterans,” he said.
The UMaine College Republicans plan on further showing their support at today’s vigil, which will be held on the mall at 4 p.m. They are also planning a debate with the UMaine College Democrats and the Green Party, to be held early in December.
Bangor Daily News