Iraq, 3 Years Later

IRAQ, 3 YEARS LATER

Washington, DC- Sunday, March 19th marks three years since the beginning of the war in Iraq. Congressman Henry Cuellar has issued the following statement:

"We've come a long way in the war on terrorism. I commend our brave troops, and am grateful to those who would lay down their lives in defense of freedom. All Americans mourn the loss of these brave American patriots, and express our concern for the more than 17,000 U.S. troops have been wounded in combat in Iraq."

"The Iraqi elections which took place recently did not come without sacrifice, but they did mark a crucial and necessary turning point in Iraq's evolution from dictatorship to democracy."

"We have made a commitment to our troops and to the Iraqi people, but it is time to renew and redefine this commitment with a new strategy for success and a clear direction with a visible end in sight."

"With an eye on the future we must take into account the need to protect our soldiers, the ability of the Iraqi people to assume responsibility for the continuance of a peaceful transition to democracy, the investment we have made in that region in personnel, equipment and infrastructure and international ramifications."

"Leaving Iraq before the job is done would be disastrous, but we need specific benchmarks to measure success in achieving our goals and begin bringing our young men and women home. 2006 can become the year of significant transition."

"I stand behind our courageous men and women in uniform who are bearing the burden of this military action in Iraq, and continue to be deeply grateful for their patriotism, their courage, and the sacrifices they and their families are making."

http://www.house.gov/apps/list/press/tx28_cuellar/060320.html