Monday, March 24, 2003 | 9:29 a.m.
As war continues in Iraq, protesters and those supporting the war effort are making themselves heard in Las Vegas.
Protestors took to the streets over the weekend, but there were no problems or incidents, Metro Police Sgt. Rick Barela said.
On Saturday a lone pickup truck blared patriotic songs in front of University United Methodist Church on South Maryland Parkway, as about 20 peace demonstrators finished a march from the Boulevard Mall to the University of Nevada, Las Vegas campus.
"I'm against the war," peace marcher Deborah Nervig said. "It's better to be here than staying at home and getting frustrated."
Another demonstrator, Bob Goodwyn, said it was a matter of priorities -- and politics.
"Bush is the one stealing from our paychecks," he said. "He is the one that is ruining the economy and taking away our freedoms here."
While protesters made their point authorities say that Las Vegas has remained secure and report no threats to the city.
"We have measures in place if there are any retaliatory strikes against U.S. interests, but we have no information about a specific threat to Las Vegas," FBI spokesman Daron Borst said.
While some are against the war, the soldiers and families stationed at Nellis are supporting deployed troops, including about 1,047 airmen from Nellis.
"We're proud of all of our deployed forces, and we thank them and their families for their sacrifice," said Maj. Gen. Steve Wood, commander of the Air Warfare Center. "With more than 1,000 airmen deployed, it will come as no surprise that those left behind are working harder than ever.
"Our military and civilians, joined by guard and reserve forces, are carrying on Nellis' missions without skipping a beat."
About 950 of the deployed soldiers from Nellis are supporting operations in Southwest Asia, including helicopter rescue crews, unmanned Predator aircraft operators, security forces, communications specialists and medical professionals.
Wood, who spoke at a press conference at Nellis on Friday, said that while their is concern for deployed friends and family the mood at Nellis remains good.
"A lot of us wish we were there helping, but the mood is really sky high here," Wood said. "We're busy doing our day-to-day job. I turn on the TV or the radio to hear what's going on when I can, but my job is to let those deployed do their job."
Lt. Col Steve Theulen, an Air Force Reservist who is serving as deputy commander of security forces at Nellis, is thinking about those overseas.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with the people overseas right now," Theulen said. "There are members of the 99th Security Forces that have been deployed, and we hope they return home safely."
Theulen said that Nellis security remains in close contact with the FBI and local police agencies.
"We have increased random inspections, and we continue to change patrols and update our security posture," Theulen said.
Nellis remains at Bravo security level, two levels below Delta, the highest security posture.
The American Red Cross continues to collect snack food, razors, toothbrushes and other care package items for deployed soldiers. Collection points have been set up at the 39 Albertson's stores in Southern Nevada.
The Red Cross is also seeking monetary donations to help with shipping and postage costs. Those wanting to donate can contact the Red Cross at 791-3311 ext. 3022.
archive
