Hundreds of people in Caldwell County rallied on Friday in support of American troops.
“Rally for America” was planned before the war even started. Organizers say it was a community event that crossed political lines.
The community event was held on the courthouse lawn. Many local businesses, including the courthouse, closed for the hour-long tribute.
Young and old people clutched flags as a symbol of their pride and gratitude for the soldiers' bravery abroad.
"We are here for the soldiers," said kindergarten student Maria Castillo.
At the rally, organizers read the names of more than 75 Caldwell County residents who are currently serving their country during the war. By taking this roll call, they personalized and localized the soldiers fighting in Iraq.
"These are our classmates that we went to high school with. These are our sons and daughters that are over there right now," rally organizer Kelley McCormick said.
Family members of the men and women serving are thankful for this positive rally.
"What's hard is turning on your television and seeing all the people protesting against the war," Glenn Reid, a soldier’s father, said.
Organizers say their goal was to lend support to the families’ troops.
"We wanted to show those troops and their families that we support them, and we're behind them 100 percent wherever they are and whatever they're doing."
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Caldwell County rally
Residents rallied to support local solidiers overseas.
 
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In addition to supporting the troops in Iraq, those at the rally were dedicated to expressing their American pride.
Maria Castillo painted her face in red, white and blue.
"So everybody can see we're Americans," said Castillo.
