In Contrast, These Crosses Are Being Used FOR Political Gain

Families Angered by Crosses at War Protest
by ANGELA K. BROWN, Associated Press Writer
Wed Aug 24, 4:16 AM ET

CRAWFORD, Texas - Nearly 600 white wooden crosses in perfectly straight rows stretch down the narrow road leading to President Bush's ranch, a sea of names in the grassy ditch. Lt. Seth Dvorin. Sgt. David W. Johnson. Daniel Torres. Casey Sheehan.

Hundreds of anti-war demonstrators have spent time at the memorial the past two weeks, pausing to wipe away tears or place an American flag by a cross as they walk slowly down the road.

To some relatives of the fallen U.S. soldiers, however, it isn't a tribute to heroes but a political statement by liberal groups with whom they disagree.

Sherry Orlando, a spokeswoman at Fort Campbell, Ky., said she doesn't want her husband, who was killed in Iraq in 2003, to be used "for someone's political agenda."

"Being in the military ... was who he was. It wasn't just a job. He supported what he did and I support that as well," she said.

The crosses were erected two weeks ago by Veterans for Peace as part of the war protest that began Aug. 6 outside Bush's ranch by grieving mother and peace activist Cindy Sheehan. She vows to continue the vigil until Bush talks to her or his monthlong vacation ends

There is reason to take offense at these crosses which do dishonor the soldiers they purportedly represent. Talk about a political agenda.

Full Story: Crawford Crosses

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