Lucas Travels to Iraq, Afghanistan
LUCAS TRAVELS TO IRAQ, AFGHANISTAN
January 17, 2006
Congressman Meets With Oklahoma Soldiers, Military and Civilian Leaders
Washington, D.C.- U.S. Third District Congressman Frank Lucas traveled to Iraq and Afghanistan with a delegation of U.S. House members to review the progress of U.S. efforts to bring democracy to those countries.
Lucas returned with five other members of Congress from the region this week. They met with political leaders in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as U.S. troops and military leaders, including Four-star General George Casey, Commanding General in Iraq.
Lucas also got the opportunity to meet with Oklahoma National Guard and Reserve troops stationed in both Iraq and Afghanistan.
"The troops I spoke with believed in our mission in Iraq, and wanted to be sure we finished our work there," Lucas said.
Lucas' meeting with Oklahoma soldiers in Iraq occurred over a mess hall meal in Baghdad.
"The troops told me that the Iraqi people are showing a greater sense of ownership in success of their democracy," Lucas said. "They are working to become an independent democratic nation. Even the number of tips from ordinary Iraqis on possible insurgent activities has gone up in recent months."
While in Afghanistan, Lucas and the congressional delegation also met with Afghan President Hamid Karzai on the progress of Operation Enduring Freedom, and on the country's efforts to create a stable democratic nation free from terrorist insurgency. In September Afghanistan held its first parliamentary elections in almost 40 years.
"President Karzai is an engaging personality who is clearly dedicated to continuing his country's difficult transition from civil war to democratic rule by the Afghan people," Lucas said. "But Afghanistan still has difficult challenges ahead, like dealing with terrorist insurgents and fighting the growth of illegal opium production."
Lucas also was greeted by a familiar face when the group made a stop in Kuwait. Brigadier General Mark Solo greeted Lucas and the delegation in Kuwait. Lucas worked with Solo when he was stationed as Wing Commander at Altus Air Force Base. He is now stationed in Kuwait as Chief of the Office of Military Cooperation.
Lucas attended the trip at the invitation of Agriculture Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte.
http://www.house.gov/apps/list/press/ok03_lucas/iraqafghan.html