National Security

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Congresswoman Pelosi visits Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan on Mother’s Day to thank the troops for their service and sacrifice and to hear their views on the role of women in our military forces.

Our nation’s leaders have no greater responsibility than ensuring the safety and security of the American people. That means maintaining a strong military and deploying our men and women in uniform only when necessary.

In December, we marked the official end to the war in Iraq, bringing our troops home in time for the holidays and ending a war that has cost the American people too much in lives, in dollars, and our reputation around the world. I commend President Obama for keeping his promise to the American people and express deep gratitude to those who have served our great nation.

As we end the war in Iraq, we also look forward to the end of operations in Afghanistan. I have always believed we must have an exit strategy and support President Obama’s decision to start bringing our troops home from Afghanistan. Many in Congress and across the country hoped that the full drawdown of U.S. forces would happen sooner – and we will continue to press for a better outcome. Concluding operations in Afghanistan will help us to reduce the deficit and focus greater attention on the priorities of the American people: creating jobs and investing in our nation’s future by building a strong, thriving economy for our children.

I will continue to work to support our troops and bring them home honorably, safely and soon.