Anti-war protesters arrested outside West Point

AP, WCAX.com, Dec. 1, 2009

WEST POINT, N.Y. (AP) - Six anti-war protesters were arrested outside the U.S. Military Academy during President Barack Obama speech outlining his planned troop buildup in Afghanistan.

Highland Falls Police Chief Peter Miller said Tuesday the protesters were charged with disorderly conduct for blocking the roadway.

More than 200 protesters had marched a half mile to a rally at the military academy's gates before Obama's speech Tuesday night. They carried candles and protest signs saying "The audacity of torture," "Get out now," and "How many lives per gallon?"

The group included people of all ages, from young children to seniors hobbling with canes, as well as war veterans and family members with loved ones fighting overseas. Many said they had voted for Obama and were disappointed with his decision to add 30,000 troops in Afghanistan.