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Gene Kennedy reportingAfter Defense Secretary Rumsfeld spoke at the Salt Palace, he paid a visit to a humanitarian aid organization that's sending supplies to those suffering in Iraq and Afghanistan.
The organization is called Globus Relief, and the group has started what's called "Operation Give."
They gather medical supplies, clothing and toys inside their Salt Lake City warehouse, then ship them to the troops. The idea is that our soldiers are distributing these supplies to those in need and bridging the gap in a controversial war.
Donald Rumsfeld heard about the program and wanted to visit.
From a political standpoint, it's perfect for "image management." It is something positive associated with the war, at a time when fewer Americans support the Iraq conflict.
Rumsfeld met with volunteers at the warehouse. Before the photo op, he talked privately with Adam Galvez's family. Galvez was a lance corporal in the military killed in Iraq just over a week ago after a roadside bomb went off near his armored truck.
Defense. Sec. Donald Rumsfeld: "They've suffered a loss that is terribly important to them. And it was a privilege and honor for me to have a chance to visit with them and express our condolences to them, and appreciation for the service and sacrifice of their son and their family."
Amy Galvez, Lost son in war: "It was an incredible experience. I am very grateful that they would think of us and give us this opportunity."
Defense. Sec. Donald Rumsfeld: (reporter question: The president said a week ago that the war has become a strain on the psyche of the county. Those are his words. Do you share that opinion?) "Wars are terrible, ugly and difficult things. I don't think any people can go through a conflict - a struggle of this type - and not have it affect them."
But Rumsfeld did not say whether the plan in Iraq should change in light of the psychological strain this war has been.
We'll have more with the Defense Secretary later tonight.
