WASHINGTON, DC-- After nearly nine years of war and the loss of almost 4,500 American heroes, the war in Iraq comes to an official end. 

Congresswoman Marcia L. Fudge (OH-11) made this statement: "This year the brave men and women who continue to honorably serve their nation will be home in time to spend the holidays with their families.  We must never forget the enormous sacrifice made by over 1 million Americans who served in our nation's longest war.  Our commitment to them does not end with the war.  It's imperative that we ensure our returning troops have access to resources to help them return to their full, productive lives."

Cleveland City Councilman Terrell Pruitt, Ward 1, is a Captain in the Ohio Army National Guard and served several tours in Afghanistan.  He provided a brief reaction to the end of the Iraq War: "This marks a significant point in our history.  Now we need to take the principles of nation building and apply them to America's core.  We spent time building infrastructure and schools in Iraq.  Now it's time to put those resources into supporting the urban poor in Cleveland, and across the nation."

He also commented on soldiers returning to their communities:

"Assimilation is not easy for a variety of different reasons but we should accept these veterans back into our community and use their talents to help us get out of this economic situation.  We cannot allow this generation of veterans to be underutilized as we rebuild this country."

U.S. Army Veteran Duane Evans of Euclid served two tours in Iraq (2003-2004 and 2004-2005).  Mr. Evans commented on the end of the Iraq War:

"I'm surprised it lasted this long," said Mr. Evans.  He added that America's military men and women served with honor and did a very tough job.   "We did what we were asked to do."

He expressed his hope that veterans who return from Iraq take advantage of programs and resources to transition back to civilian life and seek help if they have any struggles with PTSD or coping from the stress of war.

"If you need help, even if you're not sure you need it, then go get it.  It's there for you." 

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