WARRENSVILLE HEIGHTS, OH- Congresswoman Marcia L. Fudge today applauded President Obama's announcement to withdraw all remaining U.S. troops from Iraq by the end of the year.

"Ending U.S.  combat operations in Iraq is clearly the right thing to do and in our nation's best interest, " said Congresswoman Fudge.  "The enormous sacrifice of  American lives should not continue.  Iraqis have demonstrated they can provide for their own security.  Moreover, an end to war will enable us to rebuild our nation.  I welcome the President's announcement and urge him to accelerate the draw down of combat forces in Afghanistan as well."

In 2008, there were approximately 150,000 U.S. troops serving in Iraq.  By the end of 2011, all of our troops will be out of Iraq.  Congresswoman Fudge encourages all citizens to join her in addressing the needs of returning veterans.  "My commitment to the men and women who served our country honorably will not end when they come home.  I will continue to press for the programs and policies that will help our veterans find a job, receive an education and address their health care needs as they transition back to civilian life."

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