Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

DATE=4/17/03

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

TITLE=PENTAGON / WARNING (S ONLY)

NUMBER=2-302324

BYLINE=ALEX BELIDA

DATELINE=PENTAGON

CONTENT=

VOICED AT:

INTRO: America's top general says U-S-led coalition forces in Iraq have achieved what he calls a "tremendous combat victory." But V-O-A Pentagon Correspondent Alex Belida reports General Richard Myers says the war is not yet over.

TEXT: It is the first time that any of the top U-S defense officials has used the "V" word -- victory.

But General Myers, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, says the work of U-S forces is far from over -- whether in Iraq, Afghanistan or elsewhere where the war on terrorism is being fought.

/// MYERS ACTUALITY ///

The unfortunate fact of the matter is that there are people that have an unrelenting hatred of America and our freedoms. They remain dangerous and they remain determined to end our way of life.

/// END ACTUALITY ///

General Myers predicts America's enemies, in his words, "will come after us in the most immoral and underhanded manner possible." He urges U-S forces, at home and abroad, to remain prepared and on alert. (Signed)

NEB/BEL/RH