Rick Perry - The War in Iraq
Last Updated: Oct 27, 2011
Summary
Governor Perry has not commented much on the war in Iraq. He released statements when the war in Iraq commenced and when Saddam Hussein was captured. He praised President Bush for his efforts and stated that the world was a safer place because of his actions.
In October of 2011, Governor Perry responded to actions taken by President Obama to remove troops by the end of the year by stating that the President was putting political expediency ahead of sound military and security judgment.
Disarmament of Iraq
In March of 2003, Governor Perry issued a press statement noting the disarmament of Iraq and calling for a rallying of support behind President Bush.
Statement of Gov. Rick Perry on Start of Disarmament of Iraq
Wednesday, March 19, 2003 • Press Release
"Tonight, the men and women of our Armed Forces began answering the call of our nation. Their cause is the preservation of freedom and the protection of innocent lives from the destructive designs of terrorist enemies and rogue states.
"But we know that freedom is not free. The cost is borne by the brave soldiers on the front lines and the loved ones they leave thousands of miles behind.
"Now is the time for America to rally behind President George W. Bush and our men and women in the military.
"May God bless our men and women in the Armed Forces, and may God give wisdom and strength to President George W. Bush."
The Capture of Saddam Hussein
In December of 2003, Governor Perry released a press statement noting the capture of Saddam Hussein. He noted that the world was a safer place thanks to the leadership of Saddam Hussein.
Statement of Gov. Rick Perry on Capture of Saddam Hussein
Sunday, December 14, 2003 • Press Release
AUSTIN - Gov. Rick Perry today issued the following statement upon learning of the capture of Saddam Hussein:
"The capture of Saddam Hussein by American soldiers is a signature moment in world history. It is great news for the people of Iraq who for too long suffered under the brutal dictator, and it is a major victory over the forces of terrorism in the world. The world today is a safer place because of the leadership of President George W. Bush as America continues to stand strong in defending the principles of freedom. While Hussein's capture is a major victory, the military's dangerous work is not over. I commend the men and women of our armed forces carrying out the mission of freedom throughout the world, and my thoughts and prayers remain with them and their families."
Response to withdraw of Troops
In October of 2011, Governor Perry responded to President Obama's move to withdraw troops from Iraq by issuing a statement critical of the move.
Statement from Gov. Rick Perry on Iraq
Posted on October 21st, 2011
AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry today released the following statement on President Obama’s announcement to withdraw troops from Iraq:
“I’m deeply concerned that President Obama is putting political expediency ahead of sound military and security judgment by announcing an end to troop level negotiations and a withdrawal from Iraq by year’s end. The President was slow to engage the Iraqis and there’s little evidence today’s decision is based on advice from military commanders.
“America’s commitment to the future of Iraq is important to U.S. national security interests and should not be influenced by politics. Despite the great achievements of the U.S. military and the Iraqi people, there remain real threats to our shared interests, especially from Iran.
“The United States must remain a firm and steadfast ally for Iraq, maintaining an ongoing diplomatic, economic, and military to military partnership with this emerging democratic ally in the Middle East.
“As a veteran and commander-in-chief of national guard forces, I cannot express enough appreciation for our military service members who have protected and defended American interests in Iraq. Our Iraq war veterans made enormous sacrifices to make our nation and world safer, and I know all Americans will welcome them home with great pride and appreciation.”
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