Cold weather didn’t damper the spirits of Joplin area residents who came together to show support for American soldiers.

Area legislators were among the 100-plus crowd that gathered March 1 in the “Peace Through Strength” rally at Joplin City Hall.

“The weather was terrible, and I couldn’t help but wonder if maybe that was good, because it showed the troops that these weren’t fair weather patriots,” said Rep. Ed Emery (R-Lamar). “They’d stand in the sleet, the snow and the cold to send a message to those troops that we’re behind them.”

He said part of the reason he believes the rally was important was because of the soldiers’ morale. Some have expressed concerns about how the anti-war/peace rallies are affecting the soldiers.

“I felt like this was a way we could send a message to them that we’re behind them, that we’re praying for them, that we support what they’re doing, and we appreciate their commitment and their loyalty,” Emery said.

The rally was more for support of the soldiers and support for President George W. Bush than support for the war in Iraq, he said.

“There are those that are seeking to cause doubt about the president’s policy and indicate a lack of support for our effort,” said Sen. Gary Nodler (R-Joplin).

“So, it’s vitally important that the patriotic folks come out and show their support.”

Emery said he believes the president is surrounded by “very wise and very experienced” counselors.

“I’m very comfortable with President Bush’s perspective and what has to be done to protect our nation,” Emery said. “I’m with him if he does in fact see that war is completely necessary.”