Gerlach Statement On President's Decision To Send More Troops Into Afghanistan

Statement

Gerlach Statement On President's Decision To Send More Troops Into Afghanistan

Congressman Jim Gerlach (PA-6th District) issued the following statement in response to President Obama's announcement that he would be increasing troop levels in Afghanistan early next year:

"I support the President's decision to send more American troops into Afghanistan and certainly hope that our nation's strategy continues to be based on the recommendations of military commanders rather than political pressure from liberal interest groups. The commander in chief should always make sure those putting their lives on the line in service to our nation have all the resources necessary to successfully complete their mission. Our brave men and women in the military, as well as their families, deserve nothing less.

"While we need to set benchmarks for measuring progress and transferring greater responsibility for security and stability to the people of Afghanistan, we must not set arbitrary timelines. The President correctly pointed out that the objective must be preventing Afghanistan from becoming a safe haven for Al Qaida, the Taliban and other radicals plotting to kill American citizens, U.S. troops and our Allies. I have complete confidence that the outstanding men and women in the military will rise to the occasion -- just as they have done so many times in the past when called to duty.

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