“Honk for peace.” “No war in Iraq.” “War kills.” These words raised a lot of questions and feelings within me as I saw the protesters lined up on Lincoln Way. It is obvious in my mind that war kills. But so does hate, so do dictators and so has terrorism.

Everyone of us would love to live in a peaceful existence, in a country with no need of a navy, army or air force. I know, however, that I sleep better at night with the knowledge that there are those on watch who are committed to defending our nation. I am proud to be a citizen of a country that is strong enough and willing to defend us and those who are weaker against injustice.

As I drove home, I started thinking of the 300,000 men and women who have been called to active duty. They left their husbands, wives, children, mothers and fathers. For what? To defend peace.

Many are planning weddings, the birth of their first child, the beginning of a career, but they gave up everything to risk their lives for something they know is greater than them … for freedom. Don’t you think that they should leave and be comforted, knowing that the friends, fellow classmates and co-workers they leave behind support them in their fight?

Our ancestors understood what they were fighting for as they defended this nation in World War II. Today, the men and women who serve in the United States Armed Forces voluntarily risk their lives in gratitude and recognition of past generations’ spilled blood in order to maintain our homeland’s prosperity and security.

My fiance is a third class midshipman at The United States Naval Academy. He has devoted his life and career to the defense of our nation. Even though currently he will not be involved with this conflict, I know that the day will come all too soon when I will be asked to give him up. I will stand on a dock and watch him leave. It will be the hardest thing I will ever have to do, and what will comfort me the most is the knowledge that I am giving him up for people who, though they want peace, will support him and others like him as they risk their lives.

My prayer is not that war be supported, but that those who are against it will realize the fear, the pride and the sacrifice of those who are going to fight.

Christy Grace Provines

Junior

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