"Pullman Rallies behind troops"

As mentioned in the story, stay tuned to Palousitics for info on how you can get involved in supporting our local heroes as they deploy to Iraq.

From KLEW TV (look for the link to the video version of the story):

PULLMAN - The Palouse rallied to support our troops.

Organizer Rebecca Schwartz said the idea for a Flag Day rally came from a story she had heard about a Pullman-based soldiers upcoming deployment to Iraq.

"My sister and I started looking for ways to send letters and care packages to troops back in 2003," she said. "Pretty much back when the war in Iraq first started. We really have enjoyed supporting soldiers form all over the states, but if we ever go the chance to support local troops, that would be really neat."

Among those speaking at the event were a number of Pullman city officials, including Mayor Glenn Johnson. Schwartz said they're also trying to get residents to join the Schwartz sisters in their cause.

"We're looking at a local troop support group here," she said. "So those who want to send letters and care packages can leave their name and contact information once the troops deploy later this year we'll be in touch with them."

Schwartz said the upcoming deployment will feature many Palouse-area National Guard troops. Schwartz said it's nice to see their years of work spreading throughout the community.

"It's a relief," she said. "It's been really neat to see it all come together and it's nice to be here today."

Rebecca can be contacted at (509) 592-3702. She says additional information can be found at Tom Forbes' blog at www.palousitics.com.