RALLY BOLSTERS TROOPS; 350 ATTEND EVENT TO SUPPORT FORCES

CAPE GIRARDEAU - About 350 people turned out Tuesday night for a rally to show their support for Americans fighting in the Middle East.

The rally, organized by staff members of the Dearmont Dormitory at Southeast Missouri State University, began at the University Center, where there were a few brief comments and prayers of concern for American troops stationed in the gulf.

An honor guard from the Cape Girardeau American Legion Post included a flag remembering soldiers who are prisoners of war or missing in action.

As the honor guard left the University Center, the crowed followed across the street to the front steps of Academic Hall where a candle lighting ceremony was held. After all candles were lit, the crowd joined in singing the National Anthem.

Although most of the participants were students, there were a number of local residents who attended the event.

Yellow ribbons were given to everyone who attended and many people carried small American flags. Several banners with words of support for the U.S. troops were also carried.

Organizers of the rally said they were pleased with the turnout and felt it showed support for the United States and its role in the gulf. They stressed the show of support would be good not only for university students, but for the community as well.

Originally, the rally was going to be held on the front steps of Academic Hall, but cold temperatures and a brisk wind led to a decision to start the event inside.

Theresa Lowery, one of the organizers, said the dormitory staff decided to hold the rally to show support because there had been demonstrations against the war on other campuses.