History arrived in Baghdad today. It drove right downtown and threw a noose around the big bronze neck of Saddam Hussein. The other end of the rope was attached to a vehicle being driven by elements of the United States Marine Corps.

A few tugs, a light touch on the gas, and over three decades of tyranny and torture collapsed and shattered. It was right there for the world to see on TV.

Iraqis literally danced in the streets. The smell of freedom filled the air. The picture was clear: George Bush meant what he said. The American military performed efficiently and nobly.

There were casualties on both sides and there will be more still as the rebuilding takes place. And while each death leaves a hole in the heart of loved ones and might even leave them questioning why we had to go to war -- why now and why Iraq -- there can be no denying that this was an example of strong and determined leadership by the president of the United States.

Some of you no doubt disagree with the politics and world view of George Bush, but he has been true to his word: He told us he felt the world changed drastically on the morning of Sept. 11 and that it was his duty to protect and defend the country.

He didn't rely on opinion polls or focus groups to shape his strategy and he didn't wait for France or Germany either.

Tonight, our army is in Baghdad. The cruelty of the Hussein years is over. The pictures on TV and in all the papers tomorrow will show soldiers of one country, the United States, bringing the gift of liberty to another. No matter your view of how those pictures came to be taken, they are indeed a snapshot of history.