Walsh: Time to Begin Bringing Troops Home from Iraq

Statement

WALSH: TIME TO BEGIN BRINGING TROOPS HOME FROM IRAQ

Congressman Jim Walsh released the following statement today upon his return to Syracuse from a weekend trip to Iraq and the Middle East:

"Like most New Yorkers, I supported the Iraq War at the onset. Over the course of the last year, that position has evolved.

"Though I opposed the President's surge plan earlier this year, I did see firsthand unmistakable proof that the influx of American troops in Baghdad has been successful from a military standpoint, as General Petraeus and Ambassador Crocker reported today.

"I saw overwhelming evidence that the U.S. Armed Forces are the most experienced, most dedicated, and most accomplished military troops in the world.

"I traveled with the U.S. Army on the ground, flew with the U.S. Air Force in the air, and visited with wounded soldiers and medics in the field. I met with New York troops at Camp Liberty, including 1st LT Mark Erwin, a CBA and West Point graduate in the 1st Cavalry Division, and soldiers from Binghamton, Sherrill, Brooklyn, Bronx, and Burnt Hills.

"Their work and dedication are nothing short of brilliant. In fact, our military forces have accomplished everything we've asked of them, and then some.

"But despite the unquestionable short term success of the surge, Iraq remains a dangerous place that requires an Iraqi-driven long term solution. I saw little positive change since my last visit almost four years ago this month.

"The Iraqi government is stumbling towards a national democracy, though a sense of urgency is lacking. The Iraqi military is mobilizing, though a willingness to lead is not evident.

"Iraq's stalled political progress will continue unless it is forced to take charge of its own destiny. The Iraqi military will not stand up until the U.S. military physically begins to step down.

"The American people have given much to the people of Iraq - its best and brightest, its wealth, its prayers, and its patience. We now need to see some improving evidence that this sacrifice is not without promise. The clock is running out on American military support.

"Iraq is fresh on my mind and on my shoes, and I am convinced that open-ended American military presence in Iraq is not in the best interest of the United States.

"As General Petraeus discussed, it's time to start bringing our troops home. The big question is how will this Congress unite to do so prudently and properly?"

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