War Prayer Rhetorical Analysis

My fellow Americans, we stand today on the brink of war, grieving both for ourselves and for the people in Afghanistan, who have been hurt longer than we have. Ten days ago, the World Trade Center was attacked by a group of extremists based in Afghanistan. Since then, we have shown the strength of our people, who have intercepted the aims of the terrorists to prevent visions of democracy and self-government on which this country stands. Yet while our principles continue, unscarred and secure, the same is not true in Afghanistan. There, the peaceful teachings of Islam have been cast aside, and instead are used to promote violence. There, women have no rights to education. There, human trafficking and massacres against civilians have become common. There, leaders are self-appointed. We are fighting for their safety and protection as much as our own. The battle we share stems from a desire to fight those oppressing freedom, not civilians caught in the crossfire. Food, refuge, and medical aid will be available to our friends.

Romero 2 However, the demands for justice
against current extremist leader, Osama Bin Laden, have not been met. The return of foreign prisoners has not yet become a reality. As long as these requests remain fictional, the hatred with which we were attacked will continue to spread like a fire through a wood. The choice lies in burning alive or conquering the situation. Still, the rain which has settled upon the fire contains the tears of many of our fellow nations. NATO has already pledged that the people responsible for the attacks will be held accountable. The European Union is already reviewing plans for a joint response. The United Nations has expressed readiness to fight against terrorism. The British prime minister has even pledged solidarity with this war against terrorism. Their support in these troubled times gives us confidence that their reliability in times of war will be rightfully sustained. The trials we will experience in the coming months will be innumerable.
Patience, armed forces, economic expenses, and strength will be needed in the war thrust upon our shoulders. Yet, the sacrifices we would otherwise make are far greater. Without this fight for justice and freedom, we would give up the preconceived destiny set up by our ancestors and the previous safety and confidence in this country. The private pain felt by the families who lost someone is unimaginable. Our children are now fearful that this event will repeat itself, taking another family member. They deserve a calm life full of hope. The safety of generations of children, not just our own, are at stake. A fourth grade girl recently wrote to the President, "As much as I don't want my dad to fight, I'm willing to give him to you." She knows the importance of our mission, and the cost that ensures her
well-being. America was a nation of determination and liberty. These traits are still reflected in the unity following a great tragedy, and the heroic aid for the victims sent in from all over the

Romero 3 country. That union is now attacked, but we will not fail. The stakes are too high now to avoid this necessary conflict.