Days of waiting and watching for a text message from the campaign of Sen. Barack Obama revealing who the Democratic hopeful’s running mate would be came to an end in the wee hours of Saturday morning when phones rang and e-mail in-boxes filled with the news that Sen. Joe Biden of Delaware was Obama’s pick — — perhaps giving some Obama supporters their own 3 a.m. moment.

The text of the brief text message, delivered to most supporters’ cell phones after 3 a.m. ET Saturday:

“Barack has chosen Senator Joe Biden to be our VP nominee. Watch the first Obama-Biden rally live at 3pm ET on www.BarackObama.com. Spread the word!”

And the e-mail:

“I have some important news that I want to make official.

I’ve chosen Joe Biden to be my running mate.

Joe and I will appear for the first time as running mates this afternoon in Springfield, Illinois — the same place this campaign began more than 19 months ago.

I’m excited about hitting the campaign trail with Joe, but the two of us can’t do this alone. We need your help to keep building this movement for change.

Please let Joe know that you’re glad he’s part of our team. Share your personal welcome note and we’ll make sure he gets it: http://mybarackobama.com/welcomejoe

Thanks for your support,

Barack

P.S. — Make sure to turn on your TV at 2:00 p.m. Central Time to join us or watch online at http://www.BarackObama.com.”