2003 Speeches
Message for American Citizens in Singapore from Ambassador Frank Lavin
March 20, 2003
The U.S. military, with the armed forces of our coalition partners, has begun a campaign to rid Iraq of its weapons of mass destruction. Our President is determined to see this threat ended; we will persevere until the world is rid of this menace.
Our prayers are with our men and women in uniform, that they perform their mission safely, and return to their loved ones as soon as possible. We also carry a prayer for the Iraqi people, that they will soon be free from Saddam Hussein's tyranny and able to enjoy the blessings of peace and freedom.
The campaign underway in Iraq prompts American citizens in Singapore and around the world to review how we go about our daily lives, and to reassess the measures we have adopted for our security. I urge all of you to give careful thought to these matters.
We live in an era of uncertainty. Though we should exercise prudence in our actions over the coming weeks, we need not overreact to events in Iraq or exaggerate our concerns here. While there is no place at home or abroad that is perfectly safe, in my judgment Singapore is as safe a port as you could find in which to ride out this storm.
Our most important responsibility at the Embassy is the safety and well-being of the American community. I take personal responsibility for this every day. The Singapore Government also takes security very seriously, and we work closely with our Singaporean counterparts in all matters concerning the security and safety of American citizens. Now more than ever that will be the case. We will all need to be vigilant and aware of what is happening around us in the days ahead, but in Singapore we can count on the support of a determined government and a hospitable people.
I urge you to check this website regularly to follow any new announcements or advisories.
I will continue to hold "Town Hall Meetings" as requested through the American organizations in Singapore. Meanwhile use the web feedback form to let me know any thoughts or suggestions.
I ask you to watch out for one another, and to stay in touch with family and friends here and at home. This war might well have its setbacks and its dark moments. We can expect the occasional tough news report, and we may well see demonstrations in some countries. But we will see this matter through. And we will see it through together. God bless America.