“Mr. Speaker, today, as Congress focuses on the government shutdown, our Nation quietly marks the close of our 12th year at war in Afghanistan”, said Rep. Gabbard. Pictured here: Shocking and gruesome photo of American soldier killed by a car bomb explosion in Afghanistan.
On October 7, 2013 Rep. Gabbard asked for and was granted permission to address the United States House of Representatives for one minute regarding the tragic war in Afghanistan. There she reminder members of both parties that the war has stretched into its 12th year and cost the lives of two thousand one hundred and forty three U.S. servicemembers thus far. An absolutely shocking figure!
“Mr. Speaker, today, as Congress focuses on the government shutdown, our Nation quietly marks the close of our 12th year at war in Afghanistan.”
“While the country talks about a Federal Government shutdown and the divisive partisan politics that are standing in the way of progress, the harsh reality and hell that is war seem a distant memory for most. Meanwhile, we have over 54,000 troops serving in Afghanistan today. To all of our troops, thank you for your service and the sacrifices that you and your families have endured”, she said.
“Two thousand one hundred and forty-three U.S. serv ice mem bers have been killed in Afghanistan to date, leaving behind families who will never again feel their warm embrace. Let us honor those who have served and who continue to put their lives on the line and do our best to bring them home. Let us remember their great sacrifices and set aside the pettiness in our own lives that divides us, and let us remember their great service and ask ourselves constantly how best can we be of service”, said Rep. Gabbard (source: Congressional Record thomas.loc.go).
“The war in Afghanistan is now the longest war in U.S. history”, according to ABC news (source: http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/afghan-war-now-longest-war-us-history/story?id=10849303).
It is arguably one of the most expensive as well.