Washington, DC -- The following is a statement from Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) regarding the ending of combat operations in Iraq.

“At last the final American combat brigade is out of Iraq, ending our combat operations there. We have been paying a heavy price in both lives and money for this war.  It is time for the Iraqis to stand up for their own nation.  While this changes our role in Iraq, we must remember that we still have 50,000 troops there to assist in training.  For those returning soldiers, I welcome them home and thank them for their service.  Congress has made a historic commitment in the last few years to ease the path of our returning soldiers, for our veterans deserve nothing less.

“We must also remember the thousands who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation.  My thoughts and prayers remain with them and their families.”

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