On August 31st, 2010, President Obama addressed the nation from the Oval Office. “So tonight,” he said, “I am announcing that the American combat mission in Iraq has ended.” To mark the historic moment, the President and First Lady joined administration officials and thousands of people from across the country to offer their support and appreciation for our veterans, troops, and military families. Explore some of the video messages, tweets, and facebook posts saluting our men and women in uniform.
[View the story “Saluting Service in Iraq: 8/31/2010” on Storify]
Saluting Service in Iraq: 8/31/2010
On August 31st, 2010, President Obama ended the combat mission in Iraq. The President and First Lady joined administration officials and people across the country to support and thank our veterans, troops and military families online. Share your message of thanks with #SaluteTroops.
Storified by The White House · Thu, Aug 30 2012 10:28:07
“Thank you all for your service and support. You help make this a great country by defending its people and honor in the name of freedom and justice. God bless you all, and the U.S.” -John Jonesvia WH.gov
“Thanks to all veterans and their families. You will be forever in my prayers and gratitude!” -Patricia Trisha Stauder via facebook
“All i have to say is that every single one of you are absolute heroes. Keep safe out there and all the best from my family.” -Daniel Williams via WH.gov
update your status on facebook and share a message of thanks with a military family at JoiningForces.gov.
Before his Oval Address in 2010, the President traveled to Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas to speak with troops who had seen every phase of what had become one of America’s longest wars, and who continue to serve in Afghanistan. This Friday, August 31st, 2012, exactly two-years later, the President Obama will return to Fort Bliss to address troops on the progress we’ve made in Iraq and Afghanistan, and to discuss the steps this Administration has taken to support our service members and veterans at home.
To mark two years since the end of combat in Iraq, and with troops still serving in Afghanistan, take a moment to show your support for those that serve and their families. Here’s how you can participate:
Fonte: White House