[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 194 (Friday, December 16, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2289]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                  WITHDRAWAL OF U.S. TROOPS FROM IRAQ

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                        HON. CAROLYN B. MALONEY-

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, December 16, 2011

  Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to praise our troops--and our 
President--as we end our involvement in Iraq.
  America's armed forces were called to duty, did everything asked of 
them and served with distinction. Their valor and dedication in serving 
our country half a world away has been an inspiration to me and to our 
nation. And now, as they leave the nation of Iraq, we here at home 
honor their sacrifice, the sacrifice of their families, and welcome 
them with open arms and open hearts. As we welcome those who are coming 
home, we must not forget the nearly 4,500 servicemembers who lost their 
lives and the more than 30,000 troops who were wounded in this conflict 
who, along with their families, have made the ultimate sacrifice for 
our country.
  President Obama deserves much credit for keeping his promise to the 
American people to withdraw from the Iraq conflict and have our troops 
home by the holidays. Those of us in the House and the Senate must 
continue to honor our commitment to our veterans and their families, 
helping to ensure a future in which they can fulfill their hopes and 
dreams for themselves and their children.

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