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ImageWASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Rep. Michael Arcuri (NY-24) released the statement below following President Barack Obama’s speech outlining the plan for U.S. Military involvement in Afghanistan in the coming years:

“The War on Terror began in Afghanistan and we now have a clear path forward to see that it ends there.  I am pleased that President Obama has sought the council of his generals on the ground to come to this decision regarding the Afghanistan conflict.  After hearing the President’s speech, I am confident that America is doing what is necessary to protect our troops on the ground and keep Americans safe from the real threat of Al Qaeda and the Taliban. 

In my two trips to Afghanistan as your Congressman, I have seen firsthand the willingness of the Afghan people to take control of their own national security and this plan provides them the training and time necessary to do just that.  While an increased military fighting force is absolutely necessary we also need to provide an increase in ‘soft power’ which will provide for an improved relationship with the Afghan people.”

“The President has laid out a clear plan for victory in this lengthy conflict to ensure that we also don’t lose track of the fact that we need to build up our nation here at home.  We are fortunate to have strong leaders in our military like Generals McChrystal and Petraeus who have worked directly with the President on this plan which has received the unanimous support of the National Security Council.”

“As I have said from the very beginning regarding Afghanistan and Iraq, I am concerned about staying involved in these conflicts for an indeterminate amount of time.  However, I am concerned with setting an arbitrary date of July 2011 to begin the withdrawal of American forces.  It is my hope that the President’s plan will allow enough time for us to finish the job and drive back the Taliban and Al Qaeda forces in Afghanistan and Pakistan.”

“We are so fortunate in this country to have the best and bravest men and women in uniform protecting our freedoms and this plan will allow for their long-term safety and success in Afghanistan so that they can return home to their families as quickly as possible.  I will not let a day go by without honoring the commitment and sacrifice of our men and women in the armed services and I know that the President had their best interests in mind when he met with his generals and formulated this plan.”

U.S. Congressman Michael Arcuri

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