Washington, DC – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-MD), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued the following statement today after President Obama announced the full withdrawal of U.S. troops from Iraq by the end of this year:

“American troops are finally coming home from Iraq.  Over the course of this war, nearly a million American troops and diplomats have served throughout Iraq with courage and excellence.  More than 4,700 Americans and allies – including 72 Marylanders — gave their lives, nearly 32,000 were wounded, more than $800 billion dollars were spent, and the sacrifice of the families waiting and worrying at home has been immeasurable. 

“I’ve always believed invading Iraq was a mistake. I voted against granting the President that authority in 2003. From the beginning, I opposed the reckless strategy and implementation of this war of choice by the Bush Administration. We can’t change the past, but after years of calling for a new and more thoughtful approach, President Obama delivered on his pledge to withdraw our military from Iraq in a safe and stable manner. The Iraqis can now take responsibility for the security and sustainability of their own nation. Here at home, we we will do everything possible to support the health and well-being of the brave men and women who are returning home from war.”