March 20, 2009

Washington D.C. – Nevada Senator Harry Reid today made the following statement on the sixth anniversary of the start of the war in Iraq:

“Today we remember all those who have served the cause of freedom and protecting America, and we honor and respect the sacrifice of our fallen heroes in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.  I commend the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines, from Nevada and around the United States, who continue to serve – they’ve left their families behind and accepted risk to life and limb to defend that which we cherish.

“The men and women of our Military, Foreign Service, Intelligence Community and civilian reconstruction teams deserve our best effort to bring this war to a responsible end as we adjust our national security strategy to best protect America. We must also keep our promise to America’s veterans and ensure they receive the care and support that honors their sacrifice.

“I will work with President Obama to responsibly end this war and help Iraqis take charge of their own future. I look forward to the return of our combat brigades next year and remain committed to a strategy that makes our nation more secure.”