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Iraq: a Picture is Worth a Thousand Words

Tuesday June 21, 2005

Washington, DC –

Mr. Speaker:

In recent days and weeks some have suggested we need a specific timeline or date  that indicates when our troops will begin to withdrawal from Iraq. 

I would like to read from an email that one of my staffers received the end of last week from a friend of hers currently serving in Iraq.  The soldier says, “I know there are growing doubts, questions, and concerns  by many regarding our presence here and how long we should stay.  For what it's worth, the attachment hopefully tells you why we are trying to make a positive difference for the future of this country.”

Mr. Speaker, a picture truly is worth a thousand words.  He went on to end his email by saying, “I hope to head home in 80 days with the feeling that I contributed something and made this world a better place for these guys.” 
 
Mr. Speaker, any date for withdrawal would be arbitrary.  We must allow our plan to go forward, and not abandon it half way through.  This isn’t just about their future - it is about the future of all us.  

Let’s not talk about an exit strategy – Let’s talk about Freedom, Let’s talk about Democracy, Let’s talk about Victory. 

I yield back the remainder of my time.

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