U.S. Senator Kay R. Hagan (NC), Chair of the Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Emerging Threats and Capabilities, today released the following statement on President Obama's visit to Fort Bragg to mark the end of the war in Iraq.
"It is an honor for North Carolina and all of our servicemen and women that President Obama selected Fort Bragg to mark the end of the country's war in Iraq. Since 2003, thousands of troops stationed at Fort Bragg have deployed to Iraq and fought courageously in support of our mission there. Soldiers from North Carolina played an instrumental role in leading military operations and creating the conditions on the ground to facilitate the drawdown of U.S. forces. Because of their service, our nation is a safer place today, and the people of Iraq are prepared for a new period of self governance."
"As we reflect on the end of the war, we honor the more than 4,400 American troops we lost in Iraq, and the thousands more who were wounded there. Our nation is forever indebted to these heroes for their service and sacrifice, and our thoughts and prayers are with their family and loved ones.
"Although our war in Iraq may be over, our commitment to our courageous servicemen and women is not. As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, ensuring our military, our veterans and their families receive the support they deserve is my top priority."
Senator Hagan traveled to Iraq last year to meet with commanders on the ground and Prime Minister al-Maliki. During her visit, she witnessed the training our US troops were providing the Iraqi forces and had lunch with soldiers from North Carolina at Joint Base Balad.
Senator Hagan comes from a strong military family - her father-in-law was a two-star Marine General; her brother and father served in the Navy; her husband, Chip, is a Vietnam Veteran who used the GI Bill to help pay for law school; and she has two nephews who have served in Iraq and Afghanistan.