As I observe this world of uncertainty, there is one feeling, above all others, that I am certain of. We must support our service people.

It is our responsibility to acknowledge and express our deepest appreciation for the men and women who risk their lives, leave their families and face the grave challenge evoked by war as they represent and go to battle on behalf of our country with courage, determination and dedication.

Whether we agree that we should have entered into war or whether we should have waited longer before entering into war, or whether, in fact, we should be at war at all, is now of little consequence.

We have, in fact, under the guidance of our President, who was granted the power by Congress, attacked Iraq. We are now at war. Like it or not, we have committed ourselves to protecting another country from aggression.

While we all have our opinions, and are able to say what we feel freely, being that, thank God, live in a democracy, we must remember that quote "The pen is mightier than the sword" still has merit. Afterall, it was the pen that gave the President the right to commit U.S troops to battle. It is the pen that gave us the Constitution. It is the pen that signed the United Nations Charter.

With my pen, I hope to elecit a coalition of humanity, whereas individuals, who may be divided politically, are united in our wants and efforts toward peace. With my pen, I proclaim that this is the time for unity, a time to bond with our fellow men and women and support the efforts of all those service people who are serving their country.

It is with a prayer in my heart and pen in my hand that I write now, praying it will only be a short time before our people are brought safely home and that I offer my words of allegiance.

God help and bless us all.