Virginia reacts to the Fort Hood shootings

Virginia statements on the shootings at Fort Hood:

As a state with a significant military presence of our own, our hearts go out to the families of Fort Hood during this terrible time. Virginia is no stranger to tragedy or the challenges faced by a community devastated by sudden and senseless violence—and our sympathies run deeper than words can express. Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Killeen community today as we continue to receive the terrible news coming out of Fort Hood."
- Gov. Timothy Kaine

"I am truly saddened to hear of the tragic shooting at Fort Hood, home to thousands of our nation's active-duty military and their families. My heart goes out to the military community at Fort Hood and the families of the victims. Until we learn the full scope of the events, I will continue to monitor the situation closely."
- Sen. Jim Webb, D-Va., member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and chairman of the subcommittee on personnel

"My thoughts and prayers are with all the victims and their families."
- Rep. Glenn Nye, D-2nd, member of the House Armed Services Committee

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Reaction on Virginia bases:

Neither Fort Lee nor Fort Eustis had closed yesterday because of the shootings at Fort Hood.

Officials at both Army posts were monitoring the situation at Fort Hood. "They'll make decisions accordingly," Fort Lee spokesman Matthew Montgomery said.

A spokeswoman said the Marine Corps base at Quantico raised its terrorist-threat alert to one level above normal after the shootings.

First Lt. Joy Crabaugh, Quantico's media officer, said the base was monitoring the situation at Fort Hood, and pertinent lines of communication were in place. She said the base was implementing appropriate measures to ensure the safety of the base and its Marine and civilian residents and employees.

Statement from Virginia Muslim Coalition for Public Affairs:

The Virginia Muslim Coalition for Public Affairs condemns today's cowardly attack at Fort Hood, Texas. We are shocked and saddened by the outburst of violence that cost several brave service members their lives and gravely injured others.

No political or religious ideology could ever justify or excuse such wanton and indiscriminate violence. This unprovoked and unconscionable act against American military personnel and civilians is reprehensible, and against every tenet of faith and morality.

We offer our sincere prayers and condolences to the Fort Hood community, and to the families of loved ones who were killed or injured in the attack.

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