May I have your attention please. In the last few hours we have learned that Warships are coming this way from Earth. Their orders are to seize command of Babylon 5 by force. As Commanding Officer and Military Governor of Babylon 5, I cannot allow this to happen. President Clark has violated the Earth Alliance constitution, by dissolving the Senate, declaring Martial Law, and personally ordering the bombing of civilian targets on the Mars colony. He is personally responsible for the deaths of hundreds of innocent people. Following these attacks, Orion 7 and Proxima 3, have broken away from the Earth Alliance and declared independence. Babylon 5 now joins with them. As of this time... Babylon 5 is seceding from the Earth Alliance. We will remain an independent state, until President Clark is removed from office. At the end of this current crisis, anyone who wishes to leave for Earth, is free to do so. Meanwhile, for your own safety, I urge everyone to stay in your quarters until this is over. That is all.
- Sheridan to the Station, "Severed Dreams"