December 16, 2011

Washington, D.C. – Nevada Senator Harry Reid today issued the following statement observing the end of the Iraq War:

“The end of the Iraq War marks a historic day in our country. I commend President Obama for keeping his promise to remove all American troops from Iraq by the end of this year. After nine years of conflict, this is the right decision at the right time.

“Our experience in Iraq has left us humbled by the strategic miscalculations that made the war more difficult and costly than necessary, but also proud of the overwhelming valor and courage displayed by the hundreds of thousands of American service members who risked their lives to give Iraqis the opportunity to govern themselves. There is no question that the Iraq we leave today will face tremendous challenges as it strives to stand on its own. However, I am confident that the policies President Obama has pursued in Iraq will position the United States to effectively guard our security interests in the region, and to continue our support of Iraq’s own development.

“As our troops return home to their loved ones, we remember the nearly 4,500 Americans who lost their lives, the tens of thousands more who were wounded, and all those who served in Iraq. I’m particularly proud of the 36 Nevadans who made the ultimate sacrifice and the 138 Nevadans who were wounded while serving their state and their country. It’s our continuing duty to recognize their service, honor their memories, and support their families.”

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