DeKALB | On Friday evenings at the intersection of First Street and Lincoln Highway, two groups comprised of DeKalb residents voice their opinion on the war in Iraq.

On one side of the street of Lincoln Highway stands supporters for the war, the other side stands those against it.

War supporter Frank Beierlotzer has been making his cause known since 2003, shortly after the Iraq War began.

“I do what I can by standing here each Friday showing my support for the war and the troops,” Beirlotzer said.

Gary Olson said he is there with Beierlotzer and others, to be with his fellow veterans.

“Being a veteran myself, I’m here to show my support for the troops with other veterans here,” Olson said.

Across the street stands Eileen Silver who is against the war and has been standing outside every Friday shortly after Sept. 11.

Those who want the troops removed, are not just thinking of those who are still in Iraq.

Silver stands her side of the street for peace and for the war to end.

“This is a peace vigil, it’s not really political,” Silver said. “It’s about getting the soldiers back.”

Lolly Voss is concerned about peace.

“War is not a way of peace,” Voss said. “Peace is a way of peace.”

Despite their different views, both sides have respect for one another.

“We’ve seen each other every week for years and have developed a mutual respect,” Beierlotzer said.

Silver had similar sentiments toward Beierlotzer and the other war supporters.

“I love them,” she said. “We’re both just exercising our First Amendment right.”

There are some who don’t share the same feelings as Beierlotzer or Silver.

“Their signs should say more war,” Voss said regarding the signs of those who are for the war.

War supporter Walt Meyers, felt the other side isn’t being realistic.

“Freedom isn’t free,” Meyers said. “Peace isn’t free and those people are daydreaming.”

Both sides meet at their respective corners on Fridays between 5 and 6 p.m.