Norcross Statement on Conclusion of War in Afghanistan

Statement

WASHINGTON, DC -- U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) released the following statement on the end of U.S. military presence in Afghanistan:

"First and foremost, I am profoundly grateful to and humbled by the nearly 800,000 American soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines who served, and to the 2,443 who gave their last full measure of devotion over the past two decades in Afghanistan. People from every state and territory served in this war, but I want to extend a special thank you to the servicemembers from New Jersey who committed to safeguarding our homeland for so long. To the South Jersey families who sacrificed everything to the war in Afghanistan - your service and sacrifice was meaningful, made Americans safer and will not be forgotten.

"Our military's involvement in Afghanistan has lasted far too long and was characterized by a shifting and often undefined mission. As the fourth commander in chief to oversee this 20-year war, President Biden held to his convictions and I applaud his leadership and courage in finally bringing U.S. servicemembers home. That said, the threat of terrorism persists and I have every confidence that our nation's military will continue to protect us and our allies against those who would use terror as a political tool.

"Over the past two and a half weeks, U.S. troops oversaw the largest airlift in American history. Moving more than 123,000 people in such a short timeframe was nothing short of remarkable, and it is a testament to the dedication and resolve of our servicemembers as they perform even the most challenging missions. That being said, there remain important questions about the intelligence and decisions leading up to this withdrawal and will look into them. Further, several hundred American civilians remain in Afghanistan. We have an absolute responsibility to provide for their safe evacuation until all Americans and their families who want to leave have been allowed to do so. Thank you to Maj. Gen. Chris Donahue, who was the last pair of boots on the ground, and to all those who preceded him in leading our troops during their service in Afghanistan."

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