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President Obama today released a video thanking the troops “for their dedicated service in Afghanistan, in the fight against ISIL in the Middle East and against Ebola in West Africa, and all the men and women who serve the nation in uniform”.
The message aired during the Air Force-Navy football game on American Forces Network, which is broadcast to troops worldwide and which, by the way, the Air Force Falcons WON!!
After remarks on the upcoming transition in Afghanistan, the end of the combat mission there, and after honoring the more than 2,200 American patriots who gave their lives in Afghanistan, the President focused on the challenges our nation still faces in the world.
Cheryl Pellerin at DoD News, Defense Media Activity:
“Today some of you are leading our campaign to degrade and ultimately destroy the terrorist group [the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant]. Some of you are deploying to Africa as we lead the fight against Ebola,” Obama said.
Once again, he added, U.S. troops are showing the world the best of American leadership.
“To you and your families who sacrifice along with you, thank you,” the commander in chief told his troops.
“On behalf of the American people I want you to know that we are proud of you,” Obama said. “We stand in awe of your service, and we’ll keep working to take care of you and your families just like you’ve always taken care of us.”
Watch the video below.
Lead photo: President Barack Obama speaks to service members about the U.S. counterterrorism campaign against terrorists from the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant during his visit to MacDill Air Force Base, Sept. 17, 2014. U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Liliana Moreno
The author is a retired U.S. Air Force officer and a writer.