Bush: Terror War Akin To WWII

President Draws Parallels Between War On Terror, World War II

(AP) 
The speech at the Naval Air Station North Island here was the president's third address about Iraq or the war on terrorism in less than two weeks, part of an intensified effort to allay the fears of a public that has become increasingly skeptical about his Iraq policies.

Iraq woes have dogged Bush throughout his August break.

One grieving mother who lost a son in Iraq set up camp near Bush's ranch just days after he got there, demanding to meet with the president and promising to stay until she could question him about the war.

Cindy Sheehan was denied a meeting, a decision some administration officials now are second-guessing, since what started as a one-woman mission turned into a sprawling anti-war protest that drew close media attention. Hundreds of people from across the country have joined Sheehan and have asked the president to bring home troops immediately. Bush supporters countered with their own gathering nearby.

At the same time, it was an especially bloody month in Iraq, with the number of U.S. military members who have died since March 2003 now nearing 1,900.

The count, coupled with polls that show public backing of the Iraq war slipping, has taken a toll on national support for Bush. His approval rating on Iraq has fallen below 40 percent in polls.

Also contributing to Bush's discomfort was the Iraqi government's effort to craft a constitution. The process was marked by repeated delays. Though now complete, the final version is far from what U.S. officials had envisioned. Critics say the document does not adequately protect religious freedom and women's rights.