U.S. Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02) released the following statement following President Obama’s announcement of plans to end the war in Iraq and withdraw combat troops by August 31, 2010:

“Today, President Obama announced that his Administration has “begun the work of ending” the war in Iraq and will withdraw combat troops by next summer.  

“The President’s responsible plan to redeploy U.S. combat troops from Iraq will reduce the strain on our military, allow us to refocus on Afghanistan where the September 11 attacks originated and strengthen our ability to confront future threats to our security.

“I support the President’s decision to withdraw combat troops while maintaining a limited military presence after August of 2010 to train and advise Iraqi security forces, conduct targeted counter-terrorism missions and protect American personnel and facilities, as I have called for in the past.

“I look forward to working with the Administration and my colleagues on the House Armed Services Committee to make sure that President Obama’s plan is implemented effectively, and I thank the men and women of our military – and the families who support them – for their service to our country.”

###