Combat is over in Iraq but challenges remain (Rep. Steny Hoyer)

This evening, President Obama delivered an address to mark the end of America’s combat mission in Iraq. The Obama administration and the Democratic Congress pledged to end the war in Iraq, and this month’s completion of the responsible redeployment of American combat troops demonstrates that that pledge is being kept.

After seven years, the war in Iraq has seen awe-inspiring displays of sacrifice from American and coalition forces; and tonight, above all, we call to memory the more than 4,400 American troops who died in Iraq, along with the more than 30,000 who suffered injuries. We vow to honor their memories, and to honor the compact with all Americans who served, particularly when it comes to providing returning veterans the health care they need and the educational opportunities they deserve.
 
Though our combat mission in Iraq is over, grave challenges remain. While America seeks a stable Iraqi government, capable of standing on its own, enemies of the Iraqi people still intend to sow violence and undermine Iraq’s democratically-elected government. The number of violent attacks in Iraq has been on a trend of decline, even as the Iraqi Security Forces take on increasing responsibilities; but American troops continue to stand ready to train our Iraqi partners and to assist them in combating terrorism.

American troops remain in Iraq to continue that vital mission, and Congress remains committed to seeing that they succeed. More broadly, protecting Americans from terrorism remains our most important national security priority. It is the goal that motivates our continuing struggle against al-Qaeda in Afghanistan and around the world. Democrats have built a strong record on killing or capturing terrorist leaders, defending America against attacks, and getting our troops in the field the resources and support they need—and it is a record we intend to build on.
 
As we work to create jobs for our returning veterans, and for all Americans, I wish those troops coming home to their families the happiest of returns.