"Is the sacrifice worth it? It is worth it," says the President in tonight's speech on Iraq. We clicked around and noticed that everyone's carrying it, despite earlier questions as to whether some of the "major" networks would, indeed, interrupt their regular programming for the Leader of the Free World.
"Some wondered whether Iraq was a front in the war on terror," says GW to the nation in his let's-roll speech to the nation at Fort Bragg, N.C. during prime time this evening. Rough transcript of highlights:
The terrorists know that the outcome will leave them emboldened or defeated. They failed to break our coalition. They failed to provoke an Iraqi civil war. They failed to stop free elections. They failed to stop Iraqis from signing up in large numbers for the security forces.
The only way our enemies can succeed is if we forget the lessons of 9/11 . . . if we abandon the Iraqi people. This will not happen on my watch.
One year ago today, we restored sovereignty to the Iraqi people. Our progress has been uneven, but progress is being made. Together with our allies, we will help the Iraqi government deliver a better life for its citizens.
Iraqi forces have fought bravely. Like free people everywhere, Iraqis want to be defended by their own countrymen. The best way to complete the mission is to help Iraqis to build a free nation that can defend itself.
As the iraqis stand up, we will stand down, but we have a lot more work to do.
The effects are being felt beyond Iraq's borders . . . Across the broader Middle East, people are claiming their freedom. Our strategy to defend ourselves and to spread freedom is working.
It demands the steadfastness of our allies and the perseverence of our citizens. We will stay in the fight until the fight is won.
The proper response is not retreat. It is courage.
"This Fourth of July I ask you to find a way to thank the men and women who are defending our freedom," says GW, citing AmericaSupportsYou.gov:
The best way to honor the lives that have been given in this struggle is to complete the mission. There is no higher calling than service in our armed forces.
We hear you, Mr. President.
May the Lord hold you near his busom and bring you back home safely.
Love,
Sheryl
The 'real; Americans love you--it is just that some are ocnfused right now...
I pray for you ech day and that an you for your dedication, courage and bravery.
ALL MY LOVE AND SUPPORT.
YOU ARE NOT FORGOTTEN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Sheryl Lynne Kelly | July 04, 2005 at 05:01 AM