Chuck Schumer: “I pray that our military action in Iraq is swift, is decisive, is successful, and I pray that the number of casualties…”

“I pray that our military action in Iraq is swift, is decisive, is successful, and I pray that the number of casualties, both military and civilian, is small. I am deeply grateful--we all are deeply grateful--to the soldiers who are overseas. I spoke to departing guardsmen and enlisted men throughout my State of New York, in Canandaigua, Fort Drum, and on Long Island. When I addressed them, I had a lump in my throat because of their sacrifice, their bravery, their humanity, and because so many of them were there with their families before they were getting on planes to go to the Middle East. They are part of a grand tradition, a tradition of young men and young women who are willing to sacrifice for the rest of us, and we pray for them. I think all Americans join in that prayer. We have so many different views on the issues of the day and on the action in Iraq, but what always happens in this country in time of war is unity and prayer for our fighting men and women occur, and I believe that is what is happening now in this country.”