Lawmakers unanimously back resolution in support of troops

Nevada lawmakers unanimously approved a resolution Wednesday supporting U. S. troops in the Persian Gulf.

Assemblywoman Chris Giunchigliani, D-Las Vegas, said the resolution is worded to support the nation's military personnel whether or not everyone agrees with the Bush administration's handling of the diplomacy, which led up to the war.

"It's an opportunity to let our troops know we pray for peace, pray for everyone to come home safely and to honor our men in uniform," she said.

Senate Minority Leader Dina Titus, D-Las Vegas, made similar comments when ACR8 was brought to the Senate floor a few minutes later.

"Americans will always disagree on the merits of any particular engagement," she said. "I know there are some in this body who support the war and there are others who have reservations.

"But for now we must postpone our debate on the wisdom of the administrations actions for a moment to thank, commend, honor and pray for the noble, selfless and heroic American servicemen and women who are in harm's way even as we speak."

Senate Majority Leader Bill Raggio, R-Reno, agreed it's "time to put aside all of the diatribe."

But where Titus and Giunchigliani urged support for the resolution urging Nevadans to put aside the debates about prudence of the cause until America's military personnel are safely home, Raggio inserted a more direct support for Bush's decision into his comments.

"This is a time to realize that sometimes only force is the way to preserve liberty," he said.

Meanwhile, Gov. Kenny Guinn praised the president and the troops while calling on Nevadans to be vigilant.

"I urge the citizens of Nevada to go about their daily lives and routines while being aware of their surroundings and reporting any unusual activity to local law enforcement," Guinn said. "Please keep the men and women of our Armed Forces in your thoughts and prayers."