WASHINGTON, D.C. - Rep. Tom Cole (OK-04) traveled last week to Afghanistan to observe operations and meet with troops, including service members deployed from Oklahoma.

"It was a privilege to meet with our soldiers and military leaders serving in Afghanistan," Cole said. "I was honored by the opportunity to express gratitude on behalf of our state to Oklahoma's own service members and civilians serving in harm's way."

"There is a great sense of optimism among our forces in Afghanistan. With the commitment of additional troops and the arrival of General David Petraeus, our military personnel believe they have the resources they need to complete the mission."

"Everyone I spoke with demonstrated a unity of purpose and level of cohesion greater than I've ever seen before. Our troops expressed great confidence in the support of the Afghan people and government."

"There is no doubt that we can complete the mission in Afghanistan if our military leaders are given sufficient time to implement the surge strategy. President Obama's announcement that forces will begin leaving in July 2011 creates real concern among our service members that their mission will be cut short before victory is assured."

"Success in Afghanistan is critical to our national security. I urge President Obama and members of Congress to provide full support to our mission and give our military leaders the time they need to achieve victory."

Cole traveled with a bipartisan congressional delegation including Rep. James Moran (D-VA), Rep. Harold Rogers (R-KY), and Rep. Rodney Frelinghuysen (R-NJ).

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