Rep. Vargas’ Statement on the 10th Anniversary of the Iraq War
Washington, D.C. (March 19, 2013) –Congressman Juan Vargas (D-51) issued the following statement today to mark the 10th anniversary of the start of the Iraq War:
“Today we recognize the efforts, sacrifices, and resolve of our Armed Servicemen and Servicewomen as we mark the 10th Anniversary of the beginning of the Iraq War. To our men and women in uniform, I would like to thank you and your loved ones for your past and continued sacrifice but moreover, your commitment to your community and your country.
For almost 9 years, you fought a long and difficult battle far from home, distinguishing yourselves at such places like Fallujah, Al Anbar Province, Mosul, Tikrit, and of course Baghdad. Your actions are not forgotten, especially in our district where you and your families play such an integral role in the community. Having previously suffered under the brutalities of Saddam Hussein, your actions made it possible for an entire people to finally experience freedom. It did not, however, come without a cost. Nearly 4,500 of your brothers and sisters gave their lives to see the conflict come to a close. Words can never express the level of respect and gratitude I have for their heroic actions.
Your noble and selfless actions have made a new sense of peace a reality.”