Statment on Recent Trip to Afghanistan

Statement

"I was honored to join my colleagues in visiting some of our strongest allies in a critically important region,"Duffy said. "America's military and economic partnership with these countries is vital and will continue to be in the future."

The Congressional delegation met with heads of state and other political leaders from three of the most committed allies to American military action in Afghanistan: the Czech Republic, Azerbaijan, and Georgia.

"There is nothing quite as humbling as getting to visit with our nation's finest young men and women who are serving on the front lines in harm's way,"Duffy said.

The Congressional delegation also spent time in Afghanistan, meeting with top military and civilian leaders, including General David Petraeus and Ambassador Karl Eikenberry to discuss the security situation and strategy for our ongoing counterinsurgency efforts against the Taliban and Al-Qaeda. Of special interest to the delegation was a firsthand look into village stability operations, which are performed by Coalition Special Operations forces as part of General Petraeus' counterinsurgency strategy. The delegation also met with local Afghani tribal leaders.

"The most sobering part of the trip was also a profound reminder that it is our uniformed heroes and their families who make the ultimate sacrifices in the war on terror,"Duffy continued."I attended a memorial service for the nine Americans killed at Kabul airport last week and, as a Wisconsin Congressman, I was deeply moved and honored to participate in the "Angel Flight'of an Appleton native killed in action. Their service and sacrifice represent the very best of American honor and valor."

Military flights that bring home the bodies of veterans KIA are referred to as "Angel Flights." Congressman Duffy was present at the ramp ceremony on the tarmac for Sergeant Matthew Hermanson, Appleton, WI who was killed by enemy small-arms fire last Thursday in Wardak Province.

"As we return, there are many critical issues facing our nation, especially how we get our fiscal house in order and economy growing to create jobs and secure a more prosperous future for our children and grandchildren. But we must continue to keep all those who serve our nation abroad -- the troops and diplomats -- in our hearts and minds. I am grateful for the work they do and we must ensure they have the resources they need to get the job done and return home safe," Duffy concluded.

Source