War creates a different time here
With war comes consequences and sacrifices. This we all know. And
while the war in Iraq is taking place miles away from our shores, we
are not immune from its effects here in Huntington Beach.
First and foremost, our concern goes to those who have loved ones
who may be lost in this battle.
We have publicized some of the stories of those in our community
who have left to fight in the armed forces. And we know there are
many more whose stories we haven’t told.
To those families left behind, we hope and pray that these young
men and women will be safe and sound and return home soon.
For those who may have family members or friends living in Iraq,
they too must feel a pang of anxiety, and we wish them well also.
But this is a time when we too must be vigilant at home.
Since Sept. 11, 2001, the vulnerability we face from acts of
cowardice, hatred and violence from terrorists has become all too
clear.
The possibility that we may become victims of a terrorist act is
heightened. And we must be prepared for the worst.
Fortunately, Huntington Beach is one of three cities in Orange
County to have received a $900,000 grant from the Department of
Justice. The grant money has provided equipment, training and public
health materials to better prepare cities for an attack by a weapon
of mass destruction.
“We’re very, very well prepared,” Chuck Reynolds, coordinator for
the city’s weapons of mass destruction preparedness program, said to
an Independent reporter. “We were fortunate to have received the
grant. We have received more money than other cities and we have the
ability to purchase equipment and train for an attack.”
It is right that we are so prepared. We all can hope it is
preparation that proves unneeded.
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