TUCSON, AZ (Tucson News Now) -
Today, President Obama paid tribute to those who served in the Iraq War:
"As we mark the 10th anniversary of the
beginning of the Iraq war, Michelle and I join our fellow Americans in paying
tribute to all who served and sacrificed in one of our nation's longest
wars. We salute the courage and resolve of more than 1.5 million
service members and civilians, who during multiple tours wrote one of the most
extraordinary chapters in military service. We honor the memory of the
nearly 4,500 Americans who made the ultimate sacrifice to give the Iraqi people
an opportunity to forge their own future after many years of hardship.
And we express our gratitude to our extraordinary military families who
sacrificed on the home front, especially our Gold Star families who remain in
our prayers.
"The last of our troops left Iraq with their
heads held high in 2011, and the United States continues to work with our Iraqi
partners to advance our shared interest in security and peace. Here at
home, our obligations to those who served endure. We must ensure that the
more than 30,000 Americans wounded in Iraq receive the care and benefits they
deserve and that we continue to improve treatment for traumatic brain injury
and post-traumatic stress disorder. With a strong Post 9/11 GI Bill, we
must help our newest veterans pursue their education and find jobs worthy of
their incredible talents. And all Americans can continue to support and
honor our military families who are pillars of so many of our
communities. On this solemn anniversary, we draw strength and inspiration
from these American patriots who exemplify the values of courage, selflessness
and teamwork that define our Armed Forces and keep our nation great."
