On Monday, illegal immigrants across the United States marched in protest of the laws that are designed to keep them out of this country.

Long a thorn in the side of our country's leaders, it is only in the post-9/11 world that the daily influx of Mexican citizens crossing the borders illegally has become a major concern. An analogy could be drawn to Winston Churchill's idea of Italy as the &#8220soft underbelly of a crocodile” in Europe during World War II. Our border at Mexico presents a terrorists armed with a nuclear, chemical or biological weapon, with ample opportunity to deliver death and destruction upon the American people. Our borders, while definitely better protected since Sept. 11, 2001, are still largely transparent and inviting entrances into the United States.

Additionally, for illegal aliens to demand amnesty and immediate acceptance as United States citizens is a proverbial slap in the face to the millions of hard-working immigrants striving each day to become Americans. But they are doing it legally. We have no issue with those desiring to come to our country seeking a better life for themselves and their families. The Statue of Liberty celebrates that very idea.

America, as a land of liberty and opportunity.

All we ask is that immigrants desiring our milk and honey respect the laws that govern this nation and become American citizens through proper legal channels.