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Myers to Americans: 'Conduct Business as Usual'
Thursday, August 29, 2002
By SFC Kathleen T. Rhem
U.S. Army
American Forces Press Service

"We can't forget that this global war on terrorism is a fight essentially for our freedom. This is not a [case of] 'I hope we win.' This is, 'We better win.' ... Our way of life, the way your children and your grandchildren and your families will prosper would change dramatically if we let the terrorists get the upper hand here."

WASHINGTON -- AFIS
The nation's ranking military officer has a message for the American people: Live your lives to the fullest, and don't cower in fear of terrorists.

Air Force Gen. Richard Myers, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said if Americans start hiding and changing how they live, the terrorists who attacked the United States on Sept. 11 will have won.

"If you want the terrorists to win, start conducting your life in a much different manner. Conduct it like the terrorists would like you to conduct it, and that is be afraid," Myers said. "Don't pursue life as a free person. Huddle in your bedroom and don't engage in life."

He was speaking during an interview with the American Forces Press Service and American Forces Radio and Television Service. Portions of the interview will be broadcast to American service members overseas on the one- year anniversary of the attacks.

"What the American people need to do is conduct their business as usual," Myers said.
(More: DoD News Source)
2002 © The United States Department of Defense.

Dan