In the two weeks since the start of the war, I have seen an incredible outpouring of concern and appreciation for our troops expressed by many children, veterans, family and friends with loved ones overseas. People have been looking for ways to demonstrate what's in their hearts so they can let our nation's defenders know they are in our thoughts.

 

In response to the many inquiries and calls we have received over the last couple of weeks, I wanted to share a few ways that every one of us can show our support for the young men and women of southern Missouri and elsewhere on whose shoulders our freedom and security rest. These suggestions are offered in coordination with Department of Defense. The initiatives provide alternatives to traditional letter-writing campaigns (for security reasons most of the mail campaigns have been suspended) so that Americans can share their support for the troops. Suggested activities include:

All of these sites have their own specific instructions regarding procedures and processes that must be followed to ensure the safety of our servicemen and women. Please study them carefully. I've also included these sites as part of a one-stop resource section on my website at www.house.gov/emerson.

 

While these are excellent ways to demonstrate our gratitude and appreciation for our troops, we can also show our support with a yellow ribbon. Earlier this week I met with Penne Laingen. She tied a yellow ribbon around her oak tree in 1979, when her husband, Bruce Laingen, was among those taken hostage in Iran. She started a trend, and others throughout the community and across the country did the same thing. She left the ribbon tied to the tree and when her husband came back, the ribbon was still there - to welcome him and the other hostages home.

 

Those yellow ribbons reappeared during Operation Desert Storm in 1991. Today, the ribbons are again finding their way back into our sights. Some towns, like Piedmont, even held ceremonies to proclaim a "Yellow Ribbon Day." On streets, homes and businesses, the yellow ribbon is the universal sign of loyalty to family, friends and loved ones who we wait to welcome home. It is a simple but strong gesture that shows our troops they are in our thoughts and prayers - I hope everyone will show their support by donning a ribbon at their home or business.

 

No matter what your policy views on Operation Iraqi Freedom may be, I think we all agree that a soldier far from home would appreciate a few kind words from a fellow American. So, find the option that is best suited for you and let our troops abroad know of your concern, care and support as they serve in our nation's armed forces.

May God bless all of our men and women in uniform. May God bless America.