More than 3,000 George Bush supporters gathered at St. Louis Community College at Forest Park Oct. 11 to watch the first presidential debate and lend their support to the nation's chief executive.
The crowd began gathering at 4 p.m. in the community college's gymnasium. Two huge television screens mounted on opposite sides of an expansive stage provided ample viewing for the enthusiastic audience. Sound was piped around the complex so those who didn't get into the gym to watch could still listen to the event outside the building.
"I thought it was great," said Washington University sophomore David Duckwitz. "I waited in line for an hour, but I'd do it again. I've never seen anyone nearly that important before. The atmosphere was really exciting."
During the debate, the spirited crowd chanted its resounding approval of the president with "four more years." Following speeches by Missouri Gov. John Ashcroft and Missouri Sen. Kit Bond, country music performers The Gatlin Brothers and Lee Greenwood led the group in singing patriotic songs. Bush's 8:30 p.m. arrival sparked a flurry of colorful confetti.
"I'm glad to be over here and out of there," Bush said, referring to the debate. "You've done a great job and I thank you for your support." Bush then addressed the crowd for 15 minutes.
Washington junior Andrea Reelitz said the crowd went wild when the president and his wife, Barbara, arrived at the gymnasium. "Everyone was really upbeat," she said. "After the debate was over, they were really getting into the patriotic songs. I thought the debate was pretty good, but I didn't think there was a clear winner. I still had a great time. This was my first big political event."
Washington junior Jason Hopkins was within 10 feet of the president when he strode through the gymnasium toward the stage to speak. "I thought he should have spoken a little longer, but it was still very exciting and intense," Hopkins said. "The president said he was really glad we came out and supported him and that the debate gave him an opportunity to present his message to the American people. I was encouraged by him and the rally."