Enid resident rally to support troops

ENID, Okla. (AP) Enid residents are welcoming two new additions to the family, of sorts. <br/><br/>Last night hundreds turned out to celebrate the adoption of two military units, the First Battalion, 24th

Friday, April 1st 2005, 6:04 am

By: News On 6

ENID, Okla. (AP) Enid residents are welcoming two new additions to the family, of sorts.

Last night hundreds turned out to celebrate the adoption of two military units, the First Battalion, 24th Infantry Regiment from Fort Lewis, Washington, and the 71st Security Forces Squadron based at Vance Air Force Base.

The event, called ``America Supports You,'' is an offshoot of a Department of Defense program, and was the first of its kind in the United States.

Mayor Ernie Currier asked Enid residents to take an active role in supporting the two units by contributing gifts such as DVD's, books, disposable cameras or gift certificates so the soldiers will know they are appreciated upon their return.

Currier also said officials hope to send 20,000 e-mail messages to American troops.

Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense Allison Barber attended the event.

Barber, whose husband was deployed to Iraq last year, says Enid's rally was a sign of things to come.