The visit of the president and vice president of the United States last Friday didn't go unnoticed by those who believe the national interest demands his removal from office this November. What these Clinton administration opponents set in motion, however, is noteworthy on several fronts.

First, it is noteworthy that Republican opponents chose the abortion issue as their rallying point. Many of the leaders and organizers of Friday morning's prayer vigil have long labored in the vineyards of the pro-life movement. This year, though, the president's veto of the ban on partial-birth abortions has clearly given their movement new energy and adherents. Not even the most determined pro-choice advocate seems to want to spend much time or effort defending this gruesome procedure, in which a late-term baby is basically executed as it is exiting the birth canal. With his veto, the president staked out a truly radical position, one that was too much for such determined pro-choicers as House Minority Leader Richard Gephardt, who joined the large, bipartisan majority in voting for the bill.

Second, it is noteworthy that those in this neighborhood who oppose the Clinton administration did so in an entirely respectful manner. There were no angry protests, no shouting down of speakers, no disrespectful activity of any sort. This is free expression, peacefully carried out, in the finest American tradition.

Third, it is noteworthy that on short notice, with barely four days to organize, plan and pull it off, a small group of dedicated pro-life volunteers did an amazing job. They succeeded in pulling together a prayer vigil that attracted 2,500 people to hear two nationally known speakers together with sacred music and other local speakers, including state and national officeholders and aspirants. Also, they made and erected thousands of crosses to fashion a "Cemetery of the Innocent" to memorialize the victims of abortion. Many events that have been six months in the planning and organizing aren't done as well. Special credit should go to Teresa LeGrand of Kelso and Krista Kessee of Cape Girardeau, along with Martin Jansen and the Drury brothers, who backed up these dedicated volunteers with their own heavy commitment of time and resources.

The billboards erected on short notice are real grabbers and an important contribution to debating an issue that too many Americans want to ignore. Good for the Drurys for forcing many Americans to face an issue that isn't going to go away. Theirs is a good example for others across America.

And good for all who had a hand in this Celebration of Life prayer vigil. America could use more like these volunteer organizers and the followers they attracted.