Our Nation's Security Is In Good Hands

OUR NATION'S SECURITY IS IN GOOD HANDS -- (Extensions of Remarks - September 18, 2008)

* Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, on September 16th, General Ray Odierno took command of Multi-National Force--Iraq. His predecessor, General David Petraeus will soon assume the role of Combatant Commander of the United States Central Command.

* By any measure of success, General Petraeus' leadership of allied forces in Iraq has been extraordinary. Under his command and the surge of U.S. forces last year, the Iraqi military, its civilian leadership, and its economy have begun to turn around. Violence is down. Relative order has been restored to cities and towns across Iraq. And Al Qaeda has been dealt tremendous psychological and military setbacks.

* The recent handover of Al Anbar Province to Iraqi control and the announcement from President George W. Bush that American troop levels in Iraq could be reduced in the beginning of next year are signs that our strategy is working. However, there is a difficult road ahead for the Iraqi people. I am grateful that General Odierno will be leading our forces and helping this young democracy overcome external and internal threats. Our soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines under his command and American families all around this Nation can be confident of General Odierno's proven record of steady and sound leadership.

* Iraq is a different country today than it was just a little over a year ago. This is due to an Iraqi people who are fed up with the hopeless terrorism of militant extremists and have stood up against it. And, just as importantly, it is due to the incredible sacrifice of our troops under the command of General Petraeus. I know his wisdom and strength will serve him well and our Nation well as he assumes the command of CENTCOM.

* The sacrifice of our troops on the ground in Iraq has been tremendous. The loss of life in the pursuit of a stable and secure Iraq has been difficult to bear for this Nation and, in particular, our military families. Americans should be eternally grateful for our brave troops and their families and for the freedoms and blessings they protect and defend. The best plan to protect American families and Iraqi families is to defeat terrorism overseas at the source.

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