Bono Mack Reflects On Iraq's Casualties After Withdrawal Announcement

In response to President Barack Obama’s announcement Friday to withdrawal all U.S. troops from Iraq by the end of the year, Rep. Mary Bono Mack expressed her gratitude to those lost or wounded in battle.

The White House said that about 40,000 troops will come home, ending the war lasted nearly nine years and killed nearly 4,500 Americans, according to the LA Times.

“I deeply respect and admire those who risk their lives in order to protect our safety and freedom here at home, particularly those who were wounded or lost their lives in battle,’’ Bono Mack said. 

“As our veterans transition home, we must not lose sight of our commitment to them. As a nation, we are thankful for the sacrifices made by our troops and their families.”

President Obama’s announcement of the withdrawal came after the White House and the Iraqi government did not reach an agreement that would have left some U.S. forces in Iraq to provide security and function as trainers, the LA Times reported.