"I issued a challenge in 2005, again in 2006 and now on the fourth anniversary of the President declaring the 'Mission Accomplished' 42 days after it began, I issue it again. We staged our way into Iraq in one year, there is no reason we can't stage our way out in one year." – Larry Kissell

May 1, 2007

Biscoe, NC – "Four years ago today, this Administration rightfully declared 'Mission Accomplished' in Iraq acknowledging the fine work of the greatest military force the world has ever seen. Our brave troops denied weapons of mass destruction to the terrorists, deposed a military dictator and oversaw a democratically elected government.

Sadly, rather than welcoming our victorious troops home from the battlefield as heroes, this administration has them sitting in a civil war of quarreling factions, when they should be standing ready here at home for the next threat.

When it comes to funding, I don't believe there's a debate to be had on our commitments. There is no 'political compromise' on personnel costs, equipment maintenance or health care for our soldiers. But there's also no legitimate debate on when to end a war you've already won, especially with greater threats on the horizon.

Like a lot of people in the 8th District with friends, family and neighbors serving in Iraq, I believe we should fund the troops AND start bringing them home, a process that should have begun years ago. I issued a challenge in 2005, again in 2006 and now on the fourth anniversary of the President declaring the 'Mission Accomplished' 42 days after it began, I issue it again. We staged our way into Iraq in one year, there is no reason we can't stage our way out in one year."