End of American Combat Operations in Iraq

Statement

Dear Friends,

Last night, President Obama delivered an address to the nation discussing the end of American combat operations in Iraq; and this morning during a formal ceremony, the U.S. military's role in Iraq became "to advise and assist" Iraqi troops in maintaining security.

Since 2003, our mission in Iraq was part of a greater effort to promote stability and prosperity in unstable parts of the world. Whether or not you agreed with America's involvement in Iraq, we all support our brave men and women in uniform who made great sacrifices during this long, continued commitment.

You'll remember that in early 2007, our Armed Forces initiated a "surge" under the leadership of General David Petraeus. This new strategy aimed to provide additional security to pave the way for political reconciliation - a goal it has achieved. The surge also created a window of opportunity for Iraq's civilian leadership to step forward and make further, necessary political achievement. In my visits to the region, I have seen this young democracy's amazing transformation first hand.

Indeed, throughout the past year and a half, positive changes have been evident in Iraq. I'm grateful the efforts of some lawmakers to abandon the mission early and oppose the surge failed so that America's mission could succeed and Iraq could become stable.

I agreed with the President in his speech when he said that "Our combat mission is ending, but our commitment to Iraq's future is not." The United States will continue to assist security forces and targeted counter-terrorism missions. No democracy is perfect, no matter what age, and Iraq's will have its flaws. But we are ending combat operations with a victory by replacing a totalitarian dictatorship with a civil society and democracy in this crucial region of the world.

So welcome home to all the troops who have already returned! Thank you for your service and sacrifice to this important cause.

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