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.