[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 194 (Friday, December 16, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2303]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         END OF THE WAR IN IRAQ

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                          HON. HENRY A. WAXMAN

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, December 16, 2011

   Mr. WAXMAN. Mr. Speaker, this week America solemnly observes the end 
of an era. After almost nine years of war in Iraq, our troops are 
finally coming home, and Iraqis will assume the full responsibilities 
of self-government. The Obama Administration's leadership and the skill 
and bravery of our military men and women have made this moment 
possible. But as we welcome those troops returning home to their 
families, we must also remember the tens of thousands who came home 
with wounds both seen and unseen, the more than 1.5 million Americans 
who served in Iraq, and most of all the nearly 4,500 brave men and 
women who made the ultimate sacrifice in pursuit of this day. America's 
military families have born a heavy burden, and we must continue our 
commitment to support our troops, veterans, survivors, and families.
  Iraq will face significant challenges in the days ahead. But America 
has an interest in Iraqi security and stability, as with all of our 
friends and allies in the Middle East. So when Iraq encounters those 
challenges, it will do so as a sovereign nation, with America as its 
partner.

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