WASHINGTON -- Members of South Carolina's congressional delegation emphasized their support for American troops Thursday during the first full day of the war in Iraq. But that unanimity was shattered in a flap over the costs of war.

Republican Rep. Joe Wilson criticized Democratic Sen. Fritz Hollings when asked for his reaction to Hollings' call for specific legislation to pay for the war. Hollings had said: "In good conscience we cannot wear the flag displaying our patriotism, then leave the bill to the troops doing the fighting."

"That he would say something like that on the first day of fighting, he does not support initiatives to support our troops," Wilson said.

Hollings' staff reacted to Wilson's comments with indignation.

"That's outrageous; that's ludicrous in the extreme," said Hollings' spokesman Andy Davis. "Is Mr. Wilson aware that Sen. Hollings is a decorated World War II combat veteran? He should know better.

"Wilson touts his reserve credentials, but has he ever served in combat?" Davis continued.

Wilson has not served in combat, but is a colonel in the Army National Guard.

For months, Hollings has argued that the costs of the war should be paid as it is conducted. To that end, he has introduced legislation that would implement a national value-added tax to raise money for the war.

South Carolina's junior senator, Republican Lindsey Graham, issued a brief statement stressing consensus, stating: "Any disagreements Americans may have had in the past should give way to our shared commitment to see this through."

Graham's spokesman Kevin Bishop said he had no comment on Wilson's remarks.

Wilson said Hollings "has a history of being wrong" about American military action. "He was wrong about Ronald Reagan's effort in Grenada. He was wrong when he said our coalition would fall apart in the first Persian Gulf War."

"All Hollings is saying is that we have to figure out a way to pay for this war," Davis said. "Congress hasn't made any plans to pay for it. Who's going to pay for it? The troops when they come back home."

Hollings and Wilson did agree on wishing for the safety of American troops. Calling the troops "the best of the best," Hollings sent them a message of support: "We are most grateful and united behind you."

Wilson said his thoughts and prayers were with the troops and that his thoughts were especially with the 3rd Infantry Division, which he just heard on television had come under Iraqi fire.

"I was just with them four weeks ago in Camp New York (in Kuwait). They're brave men and women."