Today, Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke released the following statement in response to President Obama’s Address to the Nation regarding the drawdown of American Forces in Iraq:

“For the past seven years, thousands of courageous men and women have made innumerable sacrifices in Iraq. That is why I applaud President Obama’s announcement to end American combat operations in Iraq, with U.S. troops transitioning responsibility to Iraqi civilian-led forces by the end of the month, allowing the Iraqi civilians to uphold the true essence of self sufficiency and stability for their people,” stated Rep. Yvette D. Clarke.

“My thoughts and prayers go out to the American military personnel and civilian workers that will continue to operate in Iraq, and I look forward to the day when all of our troops will return home safe,” added Rep. Clarke. “I believe that once our troops return, we as a nation have an obligation to them and their families to honor their sacrifices.”

President Obama pledged to build a 21st century VA that provides Veterans with the care they need in an efficient and timely manner, and fund a post-9/11 GI bill that will give a major boost to our returning troops and their families who want to pursue a higher education.

“We as a nation must renew our commitment to our returning veterans so that they can adequately contribute to our society. Let us continuously work to bolster our job markets so that we can adequately accommodate our incoming veterans as well as push this nation to economic prosperity. Just as President Obama said last night, ‘Now, it is time to turn the page.’ As a member of Congress, know that I will be working to ensure that the next chapter of our nation’s future is filled with peace, honor, dignity and prosperity,” concluded Rep. Clarke.

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