MidnightBlue

West Chester, Pa:

On a beautiful fall Saturday, the business district of West Chester was busily hanging Christmas wreaths on lamp posts, and shop owners were hanging evergreen around their storefronts. The town of West Chester is the quintessential small town America and the stage for a weekly peace protest - an incongruent fixture in this picturesque slice of Americana.

It was a good day to be a Victory Vigiler. This week the Chester County Victory Movement welcomed home a local hero - Major Scott Willens - from his tour in Iraq. The multi-talented soldier treated us to a stirring rendition of the national anthems of the US and Israel. He is the second soldier to have been celebrated by the CCVM since its inception 3 months ago. The peace protesters are quick to boast their 'support' of the troops but as of yet I've seen no evidence that supports this allegation.

Rich was joined by patriots at the Courthouse Corner in a display of strength and dignity. Supporters trekked up from Delaware to attend this event, along with friends from previous rallies and some new faces made this event memorable. As customary, Rich and I took time to warmly greet our friends on the other side. Karen Porter, director of the CCPM, refused any request to meet with either Rich or myself. After the rally, 18 victory vigliers celebrated Scott's return at the Iron Hill Brewery. The company, the food and the drink were superb.

If the decorations on High Street are any indication, we are fast approaching two holidays - Christmas and Hanukkah. Both religions at this time of year celebrate the light of faith illuminating the world. In the same fashion, the Chester County Victory Movement is shining a light on the darkness that has inhabited a corner of West Chester for five years.

Speaking of darkness, there were two encounters that shined a light on the peace protesters 'support' of the troops. The following video documents the typical resistance encountered on the other side: