Juneau - The Alaska State Senate unanimously approved House Joint Resolution 18 by a vote of 19 to zero on Friday. Sponsored by Rep. Bob Lynn (R-Anchorage), HJR 18 supports President Bush's decision to take action against Saddam Hussein. The House of Representatives unanimously approved HJR 18 last week. The resolution is a bipartisan effort to support America's troops stationed in the Middle East for Operation Iraqi Freedom.

"We should be proud to show that the Alaska Legislature supports our troops, from both bodies and both sides of the aisle," Lynn said. "We must rally behind the men and women willing to die to protect a way of life."

Lynn acknowledged that not everyone supports conflict with Iraq; however, that disagreement is founded on the American ideal that everyone can have a different opinion. Lynn said showing support for the men and women who serve their country is essential for America's unity.

"People continue to discuss whether they support conflict in Iraq," Lynn said. "But supporting the fighting men and women who willingly take part in the action that they are assigned is not up for debate."

HJR 18 moves to the governor for approval.

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