Congressman Cohen Statement on Fifth Anniversary of the Iraq War

“Today marks the fifth anniversary of the start of the war in Iraq. May we each take some time on this day to remember and honor our brave, fallen soldiers who gave their lives in service to their country. Military families still need our unwavering support and friendship during these times of hardship, so I encourage everyone to reach out to their friends, family members and neighbors with loved ones currently serving in Iraq, Afghanistan and elsewhere around the world.

Since this war began, nearly 4,000 Americans have lost their lives and tens of thousands of soldiers have been injured, many of them permanently. The war has cost us in terms of our security because our military is stretched too thin, and it has cost us our reputation and moral authority around the world. And now, as bad news about the economy continues to mount, the war in Iraq has become a threat to our economy. The Iraq War has been paid for at colossal costs to the taxpayers and to the detriment of future generations who will inherit the ballooning national debt.

America needs a new direction in Iraq, not the continuation of the President’s plan for at least a 10-year, $3 trillion dollar war in Iraq. I am fighting for change in our policies in Iraq and for increased oversight of this war. I will continue to vote to bring our troops home safely, quickly and with dignity, and to provide our brave veterans with the services they need and deserve.

We all share the obligation to care for those who are bearing the burdens of the Iraq War: the soldiers and their families. That is why I ask that we come together to thank them for their generosity and their bravery on this day.”

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Contact:
Marilyn Dillihay, Press Secretary, (202) 225-3265/ (202) 368-9275 (mobile)
Charlie Gerber, Communications Assistant, (202) 225-3265 / (202) 320-2817 (mobile)